Microclimate monitoring and Vinegar Syndrome inspection in Cineteca Nazionale film archive

In 2019, Cineteca Nazionale initiated a project to implement a new monitoring system aimed at gathering data on storage environment, examining its impact on the preservation of film materials. By analyzing thermo-hygrometric data, distinct microclimates corresponding to various room clusters were identified. A review of international standards highlighted discrepancies in recommended temperature and relative humidity thresholds for long-term film preservation. The project also included inspections for Vinegar Syndrome using acetic acid passive samplers, commonly employed to detect emissions from cellulose triacetate films affected by this degradation phenomenon. Additionally, climate-induced risk for films in Cineteca Nazionale was assessed using tools, such as the time-weighted preservation index, providing insights into potential risks associated with different storage conditions.