MCI Project Summaries 2008 - Smithsonian Institution

Smithsonian Institution Archives
MCI 6013 Various Paper Documents and Enclosures
MCI Staff: Nora Lockshin, Walter R. Hopwood, Ron H. Cunningham
Various paper documents and enclosures were sampled from several selected collections
in NMNH and SIA. Heavy metal pesticide residues were identified on paper archives associated
with natural history collections using non-destructive and rapid technique of energy dispersive
X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
MCI 6246 Leak at Pennsy Drive, SIA
MCI Staff: Jennifer Giaccai
The NMAAHC contract registrars and curator have noted recurrent leaks over collections
stored at Pennsy Drive. At least one object, a "Vote Change" corrugated plastic sign from the
Obama campaign office NMAAHC (temporary receipt number of TR2008-28), has been directly
affected but was able to be wiped clean of the liquid substance without resulting embedded
damage. They have brought up the matter repeatedly with OPEC, and are seeking more
information. Results will provide support to address potential structural faults in an unmanned
collections storage area. Based on the infrared spectra collected, the brown substance collected
from the leak appears to be a plant gum. Although no specific source of the plant gum could be
determined, this was likely something collected on the route of the water leak between the origin
and the collection storage area. X-ray fluorescence analysis of the substance showed mainly
elements expected in a plant gum, as well as the presence of chlorine. It is possible the chlorine
is indicative of either the source of the leak or another material on the route of the water leak.
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