PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 - Imaging materials. Photographic prints. Effect of light sources on degradation under museum conditions

Standard Number: PD ISO/TS 18950:2021

Pages: 26

Released: 2021-11-23

ISBN: 978 0 539 01790 8

Status: Standard

Overview

Preserving the integrity and longevity of photographic prints is a critical concern for museums, galleries, and collectors. The PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 standard provides comprehensive guidelines on how different light sources can affect the degradation of photographic prints under museum conditions. This standard is an essential resource for anyone involved in the preservation and display of photographic materials.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Guidelines: Offers detailed instructions on how to assess and mitigate the effects of various light sources on photographic prints.
• Scientific Approach: Based on extensive research and scientific studies, ensuring that the guidelines are both accurate and reliable.
• Practical Applications: Provides practical advice that can be easily implemented in museum settings to protect valuable photographic collections.
• International Standard: Recognized globally, making it a valuable resource for institutions around the world.

Why This Standard is Important

Light exposure is one of the primary factors that contribute to the degradation of photographic prints. Different light sources, such as natural sunlight, incandescent bulbs, and LED lights, can have varying effects on the materials used in photographic prints. The PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 standard provides a detailed analysis of these effects, helping institutions to make informed decisions about lighting conditions in their display and storage areas.

Who Should Use This Standard?

This standard is invaluable for a wide range of professionals, including:

• Museum Curators: Ensure that photographic collections are displayed under optimal lighting conditions to prevent degradation.
• Conservators: Develop effective preservation strategies based on the latest scientific research.
• Gallery Owners: Protect valuable photographic artworks from light-induced damage.
• Collectors: Maintain the quality and value of private photographic collections.
• Researchers: Gain insights into the effects of light on photographic materials for further study and innovation.

Detailed Content

The PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 standard spans 26 pages and covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Introduction: An overview of the importance of light management in the preservation of photographic prints.
• Types of Light Sources: Detailed descriptions of various light sources and their potential effects on photographic materials.
• Degradation Mechanisms: An in-depth analysis of how different light sources can cause physical and chemical changes in photographic prints.
• Mitigation Strategies: Practical advice on how to minimize light-induced degradation, including recommendations for lighting design and material selection.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples of how institutions have successfully implemented the guidelines to protect their collections.

Benefits of Implementing This Standard

By following the guidelines outlined in the PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 standard, institutions can achieve several key benefits:

• Enhanced Preservation: Extend the lifespan of photographic prints by minimizing light-induced degradation.
• Improved Display Quality: Ensure that photographic prints are displayed in the best possible condition, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Cost Savings: Reduce the need for costly restoration and replacement of damaged prints.
• Compliance: Meet international standards for the preservation of photographic materials, demonstrating a commitment to best practices.

Conclusion

The PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in the preservation and display of photographic prints. By providing detailed guidelines on the effects of light sources on degradation, this standard helps institutions to protect their valuable collections and ensure that they can be enjoyed by future generations. Whether you are a museum curator, conservator, gallery owner, collector, or researcher, this standard offers the insights and practical advice you need to manage light exposure effectively and preserve the integrity of photographic materials.

PD ISO/TS 18950:2021

This standard PD ISO/TS 18950:2021 Imaging materials. Photographic prints. Effect of light sources on degradation under museum conditions is classified in these ICS categories:

• 37.040.20 Photographic paper, films and plates. Cartridges

The test method in this document is intended to be used to characterize and compare the degradation of a set of print materials under exposure to particular light sources, eventually including optical filter combinations, under museum environmental conditions. The document covers typical types of indoor light sources commonly found in a museum including indoor daylight, LED, and incandescent light.

This document is applicable to analogue and digital reflection photographic prints.