B e n c h m a r k

Oddy Test Results for samples of 100% Spun Polyester Stockinette: Black , as  follows: 

Project number: 2006-4-2
Project: research & testing
Materials:  Sample number 1:  spun polyester stockinette, black
Date of report: November 6, 2006

1. Procedures: These materials were tested for volatile compounds which may create corrosion in display or storage using a variant of the standard "Oddy Test."  The production of volatile compounds was tested by isolating each sample to be tested in an air-tight glass vessel with polished metal coupons of lead, copper, and silver.  Distilled water was included in each vial to provide high relative humidity and accelerate any chemical reactions.  A control set of coupons was included.  All coupons were exposed to temperatures of 40°C for a period of forty-eight days.

After this time period, the coupons were removed and examined using a bench stereo microscope to assess the extent of corrosion.

This procedure was augmented by use of the sodium azide test employing cut fragments of the fabric exposed under glass to the sodium azide test reagent for 3-4 minutes under the polarizing light microscope while examining the extent of the reaction under a glass cover slip.

2. Results
Control: no corrosion, oxidation or alteration was noted on the silver, copper or lead coupons.
Benchmark sample:  no reaction occurred with the sodium azide test, and after the usual exposure conditions to the silver foil, the silver appeared to be untarnished. There were no adverse reactions with the copper or lead coupons: no oxidation or change due to the test material was found with these materials.
 

3. Conclusions: The scientific evaluation indicates that the Benchmark fabric sample 1: spun poly black stockinette  (82-410, 82-420, 82-430) is safe to use in the display or storage of works of art.

Requested by Benchmark, Rosemont, NJ 08556      11/16/06

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