Naphthalene Syndrome and Vinegar Syndrome Affected Films: An International Survey of Audiovisual Conservation Practitioners

ABSTRACT

This paper presents the findings of an international online survey designed to better understand current practices and knowledge surrounding cellulose-based films showing signs of vinegar syndrome and naphthalene syndrome in order to determine gaps and potential areas for future research among organisations holding film collections. The findings of this survey suggest that confusion over aspects of film deterioration and the associated potential health effects appeared to be common among many respondents. It was determined that there was a distinct lack of knowledge surrounding the use of plasticisers such as triphenyl phosphate and the potential effects to health. However, it was found that the use of personal protective equipment and practices could be mitigating the potential dangers of handling highly deteriorated films. We suggest that further research into film plasticisers (such as monochloronaphthalene and organophosphorus esters) through testing work area air and dust samples may be beneficial in determining clearer safety parameters.

KEYWORDS:

• Organophosphorus compounds
• triphenyl phosphate
• diphenyl phosphate
• camphor
• monochloronaphthalene
• cellulose nitrate film
• cellulose acetate film
• naphthalene syndrome
• vinegar syndrome

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Jan Muller (CEO) and Meg Labrum (General Manager) at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia for providing a list of international contacts for the survey distribution and their continuous support, and all other colleagues in the Archive for their generous help and collaboration.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.