Why Good Conservation Matters: The Role of Volara Foam in Preserving Collections
When you walk into a museum or gallery, every item you see is a testament to meticulous care and preservation. The “Do Not Touch” signs, protective glass cases, and roped-off areas are just the beginning. Behind the scenes, an incredible amount of effort goes into ensuring that these priceless artifacts remain in pristine condition. Whether it’s during storage, transport, or restoration, every detail is considered—right down to the materials used to protect these treasures.
Why Volara Foam is the Best Choice for Conservation
Volara is a general-purpose Polyolefin foam known for its excellent chemical resistance. It’s FDA-approved for both food and health applications, which means it’s safe for use around delicate and valuable items in museums and galleries. Volara Foam not only provides gentle cushioning for storage and display but also features a smooth skin for an aesthetically pleasing appearance. From padding ancient artifacts to serving as a pinning cushion for entomology, Volara is versatile enough to meet a wide range of conservation needs. Plus, it’s free from harmful additives and ozone-friendly, ensuring that your collections remain safe.
Choosing the Right Materials to Archive a Collection
Selecting the best materials for conservation in museums and galleries is a nuanced process that requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are four things to take into account:
- Understanding Storage Materials
When it comes to protecting valuable collections, the physical and chemical properties of the materials used are critical. Volara Foam, for example, is often the go-to choice due to its texture, permeability, durability, and low static charge. It’s also important to decide whether the material will be used for long-term or short-term protection, as this can influence the choice of foam. - Analyzing the Object’s Characteristics
The properties of the object being protected—such as its material, texture, size, age, and condition—play a crucial role in determining the best conservation approach. Older or more fragile items, in particular, require extra care, as their structural integrity may be compromised over time. - Considering Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions like humidity, temperature, and light exposure can significantly impact how a collection is preserved. Proper ventilation is essential, but it must be balanced with the need to prevent particulate buildup. Additionally, protecting items from UV radiation is crucial to avoid fading and deterioration. - Defining the Purpose of the Protective Material
The intended use of the protective material also dictates the choice. If aesthetics are important, the material must have a certain appearance, while for invisible applications, durability and protective qualities take precedence. Long-term applications may require different materials than short-term ones.
Safe Materials for Conservation
Several foam materials are widely used in conservation, including Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Polystyrene. However, when it comes to versatility and safety, Volara Foam stands out as the superior choice.
Materials to Avoid
While there are many materials suitable for conservation, knowing what to avoid is just as important. Plastics with added fillers or other additives should be avoided, as they can release harmful gases over time. Similarly, plastics containing chlorine or sulfur can be detrimental to the artifacts they are meant to protect.
Why Does Archiving Collections Matter To You?
If you have any questions about Volara foam or other products we offer, feel free to contact our team of experts. At Foam Factory, we believe that every artifact and collection deserves the best protection possible. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the importance of collections and the role materials like Volara play in preserving our cultural heritage. What are your experiences with this foam and what challenges have you faced? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!
