Seth, to me, the content of the microfilm is the critical issue.

Acetate-base microfilm is fairly old film (roughly 1950-1985). After
approximately 1965, 35mm microfilm was used mainly for preservation of
valuable records (exception:  large-format drawings). These factors may
give you a clue about the content.

You may have a bunch of obsolete records with no historical or other
continuing value, in which case, you're a happy camper.

The Rochester Institute of Technology "Image Permanence Institute" Web
site has a lot of information on dealing with acetate-base microfilm
(polyester film seems not to be affected by the vinegar syndrome):
http://www.imagepermanenceinstitute.org/shtml_sub/dl_pubdownloads.asp

IPI can also offer expertise (for a fee).

best regards.

Fred

-----Original Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, July 08, 2008 12:53
Subject: Re: [RM] Deteriorating Microfilm Reels

Fred, these are the only copies I know of. They were acquired from a
closed facility.

I used, "A-D test strips" to determine how bad the deterioration was.
The acetate based 35mm reels are showing levels of 1 to 1.5 which means
deterioration is starting / rapid degradation started. The polyester
based 16mm reels are not affected and have been seperated. My facility
is air conditioned but everything not being backed up is going to
offsite climate controlled storage.


Seth Beim
OBS Records Manager
Branchburg NJ 08876

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