Special TOPS 50th Event: Introduction to the Work of the New Preservation Science Laboratories of the Library of Congress
April 16, 2010
To commemorate the 50th TOPS program, the staff of the Preservation Research and Testing Division (PRTD) presented a series of lectures on a wide range of collaborative science projects addressing the needs of traditional, audiovisual and digital collections.
Welcome and Introduction - Dr. Deanna Marcum, Associate Librarian of Congress, Library Services, and Ms. Dianne van der Reyden, Director of the Preservation Directorate, Library of Congress
View Webcast (21:50 minutes)
Case Studies with Hyperspectral Imaging and Scripto-Spatial Digital Mapping: Library of Congress Treasures and other Traditional Media - Dr. Fenella France
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast, part 1 (13:30 minutes)
View Webcast, part 2 (11:48 minutes)
Case Studies with Portable XRF and XRD: Illuminated Manuscripts, Maps and Other Rare Items - Dr. Lynn Brostoff
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (29:13 minutes)
Case Studies with ESEM: Photographs, Miniatures, and Magnetic Media - Dr. Jennifer Wade
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (15:46 minutes)
Update on LC’s Recycled Paper Research – Mr. Matthew Kullman
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (26:43 minutes)
Update on LC’s Electronic Media Research– Dr. Steve Hobaica and Ms. Michele Youket
View abstract and speaker bios -- View Webcast (23:05 minutes)
Update on an LC Technology Transfer Project to Preserve Time-Based Media - Mr. Peter Alyea
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (28:44 minutes)
Update on LC’s Environmental Studies for “Visual Storage” and Exhibition – Dr. Fenella France
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (28:44 minutes)
Update on Other LC Research Initiatives – Dr. Eric Hansen, Chief of the Preservation Research and Testing Division
View abstract and speaker bio -- View Webcast (29:10 minutes)
Concluding Remarks – Ms. Dianne van der Reyden
Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Case Studies with Hyperspectral Imaging and Scripto-Spatial Digital Mapping: Library of Congress Treasures and other Traditional Media
Abstract:
Recent advances in technology and digital access have paved the way for the improved use and interpretation of scientific analyses to aid preservation and scholarly interpretation of heritage materials. New forensic approaches and the development of non-destructive imaging capabilities to characterize pigments and media on artifacts, retrieve hidden and lost text, and illuminate production methods for a broad range of items improve our capacity to study fragile historic documents on parchment, paper, and other materials. These techniques provide a wealth of information and data, while minimizing and preventing further damage from handling and invasive analytical techniques. Scripto-spatial mapping allows scientists to coordinate the range and volume of data collected from an object.. This is equivalent to a “global information system” that maps the object and integrates layers of information that relate to specific object details. The range of data can include characterization of materials such as pigments and colorants, scholarly interpretations of text, information about organic and inorganic compounds, topographical layering of additions to the artifact, and evidence of equipment and tools used in its creation. All this information adds to our detailed knowledge of cultural objects and advances non-destructive research techniques for heritage science. For more information see Integrated Digital Imaging Systems - Hyperspectral Imaging.
Biography:
Dr. Fenella France has been at LC since September 2007, researching non-destructive imaging techniques, anoxic environments, and international environmental standards for cultural heritage materials. She received her PhD from Otago University, New Zealand, and an MBA from Deakin University, Australia, and was made a Fellow of AIC in 2009. After lecturing at Otago, she became the research scientist for the Star Spangled Banner project at NMAH. An international specialist on environmental deterioration, she focuses on links between mechanical properties and chemical changes from environmental damage. Dr. France has worked on projects including the World Trade Centre Artifacts, Pre-Columbian textiles, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, and development of lighting standards for the preservation of cultural heritage.
Case Studies with Portable XRF and XRD: Illuminated Manuscripts, Maps and Other Rare Items
Abstract:
This presentation will briefly discuss the definition and use of non-invasive vs. minimally invasive analytical techniques in relation to the materials characterization approach adopted at LC. Examples from current technical studies that demonstrate complimentary use of various analytical techniques, including XRF and XRD, will be presented, with emphasis on pigment analysis of a 15th-Century Armenian illuminated gospel. Case studies demonstrate, ultimately, that scientists, conservators and curators must together weigh the value of micro-sampling vs. non-invasive analysis in order to reach an appropriate level of understanding of issues presented by the artifact at hand.
Biography:
Dr. Lynn Brostoff has been at LC since May 2008. Previously, Dr. Brostoff worked as a chemist at the Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute in Washington, DC, and held conservation science positions at the Art Conservation Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA; the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC; and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Dr. Brostoff received a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Amsterdam in 2003; she also holds a MS in Polymer Materials Science from the University of Cincinnati, which she received subsequent to training and working as a paper conservator for a number of years, and a BA from Vassar College.
Case Studies with ESEM: Photographs, Miniatures, and Magnetic Media
Abstract:
High-resolution images of photographic surfaces, illuminated manuscript pages, and magnetic tapes are essential to studies related to the characterization of materials and the evaluation of conservation treatments. The ESEM’s extra-large sample chamber allows scientists to place whole objects into the chamber for non-invasive, in situ analysis. Throughout all of this work, PRTD scientists continue to develop best-practice guidelines for studying these materials with an electron beam. The ESEM can generate images up to 100,000 times magnification, and is equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, providing inorganic compositional information. This has allowed scientists to identify deteriorating colorants used in a Persian manuscript in aid of conservators. It has helped to characterize the structure, distribution, and composition of image particles on delicate ungilded daguerreotype plate surfaces before (and ultimately after) cleaning treatments. The ESEM has made it possible to observe changes in the surface of gelatin prints after solvent cleaning which are not visible to the naked eye. And lastly, it has given scientists a first look at the differences in ‘sticky’ magnetic tape before and after baking, in an effort to pinpoint the cause of sticky shed syndrome. For more information, see Magnetic Tape "Sticky Shed" Research; Photographs - The Effects of Solvent Treatments; and Photographs - Early Ungilded Daguerreotype Images.
Biography:
Dr. Jennifer Wade has been at LC since February 2007. She received her PhD in Igneous Geochemistry/Earth Sciences from Boston University in 2008. In order to understand the transfer of volatile species (e.g. CO2, H2O) and trace elements in magmas, she utilized and developed techniques such as laser ablation ICP-MS and -OES, electron and ion microprobes (EMP and SIMS) and SEM to study bulk rocks, minerals, and tiny inclusions within those minerals. Dr. Wade applies her knowledge of chemistry, novel microanalytical and sampling techniques, and non-invasive analysis to develop new methods of studying the inorganic components of historic objects with the aim of long-term preservation, and the expansion of scholarly knowledge. Her research currently focuses on photographic materials from daguerreotypes to gelatin prints, parchment documents, paper composition and permanence, and manuscript inks and colorants.
Update on LC's Recycled Paper Research
Abstract:
This presentation will introduce the preliminary investigation into determining whether papers containing post-consumer recycled fibers are less durable than similar papers produced from virgin fiber pulp, including whether varying amounts of post-consumer fibers create different strengths of paper. Since LC is a Federal institution responsible for the long-term storage and preservation of written materials, we are mandated to explore this issue in relation to Executive Order 12873, “Federal Acquisition, Recycling, and Waste Prevention,” (1993). This established new requirements for federal paper purchases; with Section 504 requiring the government to use printing and writing papers that include at least 30 percent post-consumer recycled material. This research will address implications for the longevity of records and other collection items printed on paper made of varying amounts of recycled fibers. The study has been separated into two phases; I - Pilot Study, II – Development of Accelerated Aging Procedures. For more information, see Recycled Fiber Paper.
Biography:
Mr. Matthew Kullman graduated with an interdisciplinary BA in Art History and Psychology from West Virginia University. While a student, he began his career with a summer position at LC. Since then, he’s taken increasingly interesting and challenging positions throughout the Preservation Directorate. His current projects include researching the effects of recycled fiber in paper, examining possible Oddy Test replacements, anoxic cases, and chemical inventory management.
Update on LC's Electronic Media Research
Abstract:
This presentation will discuss research into the causes of deterioration for optical media and audio magnetic tapes. The research is vital for better preserving these materials and to assist LC’s National Audio-Visual Conservation Center (NAVCC) and in improving the storage, handling and digitization of these materials. Optical media (such as CD-ROMS, CD-R and DVDs) degrade with time and may eventually become unreadable. Research focused on natural and accelerated aging of optical media may lead an improved estimation of expected lifetimes of different optical media as well a better understanding of deterioration process and improved handling conditions. Magnetic tapes often degrade by a phenomenon known as “sticky shed”, which causes a sticky residue from the surface of a tape to be transferred to a tape head making it unplayable. Possible causes of sticky shed and analysis of tapes with a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) to search for deterioration chemical markers will be discussed. This research may lead to better storage conditions as well as a quick non-destructive test method that can be used with a portable FTIR to identify tapes that have sticky shed. For more information see CD-ROM Longevity Research and CD-R and DVD-R RW Longevity Research.
Biography:
Dr. Stephen C. Hobaica has been the Supervisory Physical Scientist in PRTD since joining LC in July 2007. Dr. Hobaica’s current research projects include investigating the preservation of optical media, audio tapes and off-gassing of paper and cellulose acetate laminated collection items. Previously Dr. Hobaica worked in the Department of Chemistry and Life Science at the US Military Academy, West Point, NY, as a supervisory chemist responsible for overall execution of laboratory classes and use of laboratory facilities. He also worked for the Department of Defense with various polymers and metal corrosion projects. He received a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland in 2001, studying electrically conducting polymers. Dr. Hobaica also has a MS and BS in Chemical Engineering and is a Registered Professional Engineer.
Ms. Michele Youket is a Preservation Specialist in PRTD. Ms. Youket serves as the coordinator for the Quality Assurance Program, which is responsible for developing specifications and testing products procured by the Library to provide preservation housing for objects in a variety of media in the Library's permanent collections. She has also investigated the stability and longevity of CD-ROM media for the Library's Digital Optical Media Research Project, a study undertaken in collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology, to attempt to predict the lifetime of digital optical media and to characterize the components that cause failure and data loss, and is currently conducting research on the longevity of recordable CD and DVD media. She is chair of ASTM sub-committee D14.50 Hot Melt, Pressure-Sensitive, and Archive Adhesives, which is developing standards for pressure-sensitive adhesive labels and security devices for use in libraries and archives. These standards will be based on specifications developed by Ms. Youket from original research at LC. Ms. Youket received a Diploma in Book and Archive Conservation from the Colchester Institute, Colchester, England, and a BA in Art History from the Johns Hopkins University.
Update on an LC Technology Transfer Project to Preserve Time-Based Media
Abstract:
Over the past seven years LC has collaborated with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory on the development of new imaging methods to preserve and create digital access to mechanical recorded sound carriers. These imaging methods are non-invasive and scale naturally to an automated approach, therefore, holding promise as both preservation tools and as a basis for mass digitization. In 2006 a first prototype optical scanner for disc recordings was built and installed at LC. The IRENE system, as it was dubbed, captures two dimensional images of the disc’s surface. Refinements to the original design has resulted in a system that can transfer discs faster than with traditional turntable and stylus methods and with little intervention from an operator. Three-dimensional imaging hardware has improved dramatically since the start of our research. With the full profile of the disc surface being digitized, a wider variety of media can be processed. A prototype three-dimensional imaging system was built and is currently being installed at LC. The history, design, and future direction of these systems will be discussed. For more information see Imaging of Laterally and Vertically Grooved Analog Audio Recordings and 3-D Confocal Imaging of Vertically Grooved Analog Audio Recordings.
Biography:
Mr. Peter Alyea is a Digital Conversion Specialist working in Preservation Reformatting Division. His current projects include researching optical capture and playback of grooved audio media in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and degradation of magnetic audio tape, particularly, sticky shed syndrome. His work with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has resulted in several prototype imagining systems that are currently being deployed in production environments. Mr. Alyea previously worked with the Motion Picture, Broadcasting, and Recorded Sound Division as a Senior Studio Engineer preserving LC's audio-visual collections. He converted the Motion Picture, Broadcasting, and Recorded Sound Magnetic Tape Laboratory from an analog to a digital preservation lab, which led to extensive work heading the design of the Audio Preservation Lab at the National Audio-Visual Conservation Center in Culpeper, VA. Through his positions at LC, he has been active in setting preservation and metadata standards for audio recordings. Mr. Alyea served as the Head of the Audio-Visual Preservation Laboratory at the Archives of Traditional Music at Indiana University between 1995 and 1999. He has a BA in Music from Oberlin College and an Associate's Degree in Audio Technology from Indiana University's School of Music.
Update on LC's Environmental Studies for "Visual Storage" and Exhibition
Abstract:
Since the mid 20th century, cases with controlled microclimates have been used to retard the deterioration of artifacts. The Library has a long history of monitoring anoxic and controlled environments in visual storage encasements. Significant developments in anoxic and hermetically sealed cases include the control of relative humidity and/or oxygen; gases used to create anoxic environments; and advances and changes in case materials, design, and construction. Sensor technology developments are critical for long-term encasement monitoring to ensure stable conditions. A recent example of anoxic visual storage/display is LC’s Waldseemüller 1507 World Map encasement. Details of the encasement design and real-time monitoring will be discussed in the context of maintaining a well-controlled passive system. A new exhibition of drawings from the Herblock collection has raised important issues for a collection that will be continuously rotated through exhibition. It was critical to develop a study to assess long-term effects of exhibition and storage conditions. Research began with non-destructive characterization of component materials to differentiate the spectral response of media used in these drawings, to establish light sensitivity of their media and substrates, and to inform exhibit conditions for their preservation. For more information see Anoxic Encasements.
Biography:
Dr. Fenella France (see biography listed above).
Update on Other LC Research Initiatives
Abstract:
A number of research initiatives have been undertaken at LC, including the 2008 Summit of Research Scientists Symposium (SORS) and the 2009 Summit of Research Technology Transfer to Preservation (SORTT) involving a collaborative venture with a range of federal scientists in the Northeast. This has led to development of a number of collaborative efforts to further research in the field of conservation – both nationally and abroad. The Center for Library Analytical Scientific Samples (CLASS) is a direct outcome of the SORS symposium, which revealed that the need for a coordinated system to share reference samples was a concern for many institutions. LC has since proceeded with the development of an RDF framework for an internationally accessible standardized file format system to share digital and physical samples from CLASS and the inclusion of digital research files from studies on LC studies. For more information see Summit of Research Scientists in Preservation (SORS), Summit on Research/ Technology Transfer (SORTT), and Experimental Sample Reference Collections.
Biography:
Dr. Eric F. Hansen has been Chief of PRTD since September 2007. Prior to this appointment he was a Senior Scientist at the Getty Conservation Institute from 1985, and a Research Associate at the University of California. With a PhD in Archaeology from UCLA and an MS in Chemistry he is highly respected for his numerous contributions to the field of conservation. These range from fundamental research into the nanostructure of mortars and other cultural materials to environmental research on optimal conditions for storage and display of parchment. He has published widely on a range of critical cultural heritage issues with extensive international collaboration.