Environmental Control

Definition

Environmental control refers to the methods and strategies used to manage and preserve the conditions surrounding archaeological sites and artifacts. This includes regulating factors like temperature, humidity, light exposure, and pollution that can damage or degrade materials over time. Proper environmental control is essential in conservation and restoration efforts to ensure the long-term stability of both sites and artifacts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Environmental control can significantly extend the lifespan of artifacts by minimizing degradation caused by environmental factors.
2. Humidity levels above 50% can lead to mold growth on organic materials, while levels below 30% can cause drying and cracking.
3. Light exposure can cause fading and deterioration of colors in textiles, paintings, and other light-sensitive materials; therefore, controlling light is crucial.
4. Air quality is important; pollutants like sulfur dioxide can lead to corrosion of metals and degradation of organic materials.
5. Proper storage solutions, such as climate-controlled display cases, are critical in museums to maintain optimal environmental conditions for artifacts.

Review Questions

• How does environmental control impact the preservation of archaeological artifacts?
  • Environmental control directly influences the preservation of archaeological artifacts by managing factors that can lead to deterioration. By maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels, controlling light exposure, and ensuring clean air quality, conservators can significantly reduce the risk of damage. This proactive approach not only helps prolong the life of artifacts but also maintains their integrity for future study and public display.
• Discuss the relationship between environmental control practices and preventive conservation in archaeological settings.
  • Environmental control practices are a key component of preventive conservation, which focuses on minimizing risks to artifacts before they occur. By implementing strict controls over environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure, conservators aim to create a stable environment that reduces wear and tear on archaeological materials. These practices work together to ensure that artifacts remain in their best condition over time, thereby supporting their historical value and allowing for continued research.
• Evaluate how advancements in technology have changed approaches to environmental control in archaeology.
  • Advancements in technology have significantly transformed approaches to environmental control in archaeology by introducing sophisticated monitoring systems and climate control technologies. For example, modern sensors can provide real-time data on temperature, humidity, and light levels, allowing conservators to make informed decisions about artifact storage and display. Additionally, innovations such as smart glass and climate-controlled showcases enhance the protection of sensitive materials while improving public access. These technological improvements not only enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts but also facilitate better management of archaeological sites globally.

Related terms

Climate Control: The practice of maintaining stable environmental conditions, particularly temperature and humidity, to prevent damage to sensitive materials.

Conservation Ethics: A set of principles guiding the preservation and protection of cultural heritage, emphasizing the responsibility to maintain integrity while allowing for future study.

Preventive Conservation: A proactive approach in conservation that aims to minimize risks to artifacts through careful management of their environment.