Monitoring copper and silver corrosion in different museum environments by electrical resistance measurement

Abstract

• The results are reported of a systematic programme of electrical resistance measurement (ERM) of copper and silver corrosion rates within various museum environments, directed towards developing preventive conservation understanding and practice. Electrical resistivity measurements were made using copper and silver probes for one month and one year in 33 locations, and these are interpreted in comparison with two standards. Advantages and drawbacks of different methods available for the evaluation of the corrosion aggressiveness of indoor air are discussed. Practical solutions are proposed for improving the protection of metal objects collections. Improvements are also proposed to maximize the efficiency and suitability of the measuring device to the very specific applications of cultural heritage collections.