Art Sorb is made to protect artwork, cultural assets and artefacts from damage caused by climatic changes in temperature and humidity. These changes result in the pieces of art and artefacts degrading over time, causing cracking, colour fading and deformation. Art Sorb, a moisture-sensitive silica material, can prevent the mentioned damages by adsorbing and desorbing moisture to create a constant optimal humidity in a sealed environment. Although air conditioning can prevent damage caused by humidity and heat, a stable microclimate is still necessary to preserve artworks and artefacts.
Regular Silica Gel is only capable of adsorbing moisture, leaving an arid environment that is not optimal for artworks. However, Art Sorb can react to the humidity changes, providing precise humidity control in environments between 40-70% relative humidity.
Art Sorb is applicable in display cases and performs best when in an airtight environment. When a heat source such as light is present, use a heat shield to block the light or place the light outside the box. For the Humidity Controller to be effective, there must be adequate contact with air, be in an airtight environment, and spread out evenly. The Humidity Controller should also not be in touch with the artefact. Depending on the environment, the lifespan of Art Sorb typically lasts for about five years. However, during these five years, a process known as humidification is needed, after two to three years after use. A hygrometer can be used to check for dehumidification.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY | MATERIAL |
RH55-65% | Paper, wood, dying and weaving products, Japanese lacquer |
RH50-65% | Elephant tusk, pelts, parchments, nature-related works |
RH50-55% | Oil paintings |
RH45-55% | Fossils |
RH45% Max | Metal, rocks, and ceramics (desalination required) |
To meet the different needs of various applications, the humidity controller comes in different forms:
Art Sorb Humidity Controller Product Brochure: Download