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MCI Project Summaries 2008 - Smithsonian Institution

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<strong>MCI</strong> 6187 Salts in Ceramics Standard<br />

<strong>MCI</strong> Staff: Carol A. Grissom, R. Jeff Speakman, A. Elena Charola<br />

This project is intended to result in the development of a tell-tale standard that would<br />

show a visible signal when relative humidity falls below a given threshold. It was envisioned that<br />

new ceramic bodies impregnated with highly deliquescent salts could be placed in small<br />

containers on shelves alongside ceramic sherds in storage units. Crystallization of salts or<br />

evidence of their deliquescence (moisture, rings) would give an early warning or testimony of<br />

low humidity.<br />

The present experiment was meant as a test run to determine which salt might be best<br />

employed for further testing. Advantageous qualities selected for were rapid crystallization, high<br />

visibility, and ease of analysis of the salt. More extensive testing using the optimal salt in cycling<br />

chambers was anticipated afterward.<br />

72

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