Promethean Particles join efforts to preserve photos and films

Large numbers of photographs, films, posters and slides produced between 1895 and 1970 were made using cellulose derivates that degrade in the presence of acetic acid.

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Utilising its continuous flow production process, Promethean is developing Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), which are highly porous materials that selectively adsorb the acetic acid. Today, many artefacts are stored in archives or boxes which do not offer adequate protection.

In a statement, Promethean Particles’ research scientist Charles Toft said: “When acetic acid is produced, it accelerates the degradation of the artefact even further and, once started, this damage is irreversible. Thousands of photographs, films, posters and slides are lost forever because of this damaging process.

“We are working with organisations from across Europe, as part of the NEMOSINE project, to develop innovative packaging solutions that will overcome the challenges that storing documents and artefacts over long periods of time presents.”