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Abstract
The majority of the objects found in the textiles collection at the German Historical Museum in Berlin have been treated with different biocides at various points in the past. Prior to this study, the presence of organochlorinated pesticides in rooms and storage cabinets had already been proven in an analysis of air samples that employed gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy. To estimate the risks these toxins pose to both collections and museum staff, we conducted a field study with the help of a portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. In this study, we present an attempt at a reliable quantitative analysis. In addition to chlorine, other potentially hazardous elements such as lead, arsenic, and mercury were found in the majority of the objects. In some cases, however, it has to be taken into account that the detected elements might have originated from manufacturing processes rather than biocide treatments. Such knowledge is a crucial prerequisite to proper risk prediction.
Acknowledgments
A cooperation between the BAM and the German Historic Museum (DHM), this research project was funded by the German Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media (BKM). The collaboration was characterized by good teamwork with our colleagues of the DHM: Andrea Lang, Judith Zimmer, and Martina Homolka. The GF-AAS and CV-AFS measurements were operated by the BAM division 1.1 H. Scharf and H. Witthuhn. The IC measurements were conducted at the BAM division 4.4 O. Krüger. The TXRF measurements were performed by Ulrich Waldschläger (Bruker Nano GmbH). For constructive feedback on the paper, we would like to thank Ira Rabin (BAM) and Roald Tagle (Bruker Nano GmbH).