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Plastic or metal storage canister?
QUESTION:Plastic or metal storage canister?
I have a number of 8mm films, many of which are over 40 years old. Some
are spliced together on 400ft reels and have been sitting in metal cans
for most of the time, a few are on 50ft reels and have been in the
original plastic cases, a few are just in paper boxes. Except for a
couple that got some crud dripped on them in the refrigerator (now kept
in a plastic box after cleaning with Film Renew), they all seem to be
in good condition, bright color etc. I believe all the film my Dad shot
was Kodachrome, don't know if this is significant.
A film supply company I've been buying items from tells me they
recommend vented plastic storage cans to avoid vinegarization of the
film. Hasn't been a problem so far but any opinions on this?
ANSWER: Most plastics contain compounds called plasticizers, which
can leak out as vapor and damage film. Metal containers are
safer for long-term storage.
The purpose of venting is to keep the vapors from
accumulating. But the vents will also allow gases and
vapors ot enter the tsorage container.
I don't remember ever hearing or seeing the word
"vinigarization", and can't find it anywhere. I wonder what
it means.
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