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Film Vault Humidity Control
Core Term Definition
Precise regulation of relative humidity inside archives to prevent emulsion softening, mold growth, or brittle curling.
Technical Analysis & Context
High humidity triggers acid hydrolysis in acetate film and encourages destructive mold growth on gelatin emulsions. Low humidity causes film to become extremely dry and brittle, making it break under tension. Modern archival standards require relative humidity to be strictly maintained between 20% and 40%.