Cinefilm, video and sound recordings are mostly made of quite fragile materials, and therefore have a limited shelf life. How quickly the material begins to decay will depend on how well looked after the recordings are. Keeping them in good condition needs careful handling and storage to avoid damage and prevent deterioration.
Storage
Store film and sound recordings in their proper containers in dark, cool (around 10-16°C or 50-60°F), stable and (not too) dry conditions. Make sure they’re stored away from heat sources such as pipes and radiators, places with moisture like sinks and windows and any other things that can cause damage.
Extreme temperatures, humidity and dirt can all destroy film and sound recordings, so keeping them away from these will help to preserve their shelf life.
Warning
Cinefilm on a cellulose nitrate base (35mm film made before c1952) is unstable and highly flammable. It is particularly dangerous when decaying, especially in the final powdery state. In extreme cases it can self-ignite, and burns with a very fierce flame, giving off highly toxic gases. Contact your local record office for specialist advice on its storage, handling and disposal.
Things to look out for
Tapes which 'squeal' or stick when replayed. These may have 'sticky tape syndrome'. This is where damp has affected the binder between the magnetic coating and base and migrated to the tape surface. It may be chemically deteriorating and need specialist conservation treatment before copying.
Pollutants like dirt, dust, finger marks and atmospheric pollution. You can reduce these with clean storage, careful handling, good packaging (but not totally sealed). Avoid smoking, eating or drinking nearby, and using clean equipment.
Shedding tape coatings. This often shows as missing signals when playing tapes (called 'drop out' on video tapes), or a build-up of oxide on tape heads and guide rollers. The cause may be the tape itself or the replay equipment. This affects some tapes after a few years from manufacture, so this is not always due to old age.
Shrinkage is a sign of old age, but not the only one. Central heating can dry out film and sound recordings. It can also cause other problems like warping, cracked surfaces on discs and splices which come undone. These will need careful repairs and conservation treatment. Affected items should not be replayed or projected because of the damage that may result.
CDs & DVDs are vulnerable to pollutants and light, even adhesive labels and pen marks, in the long term. To keep the contents for archival purposes, use discs with a gold metal reflective layer. Store on end not flat, and use 'jewel cases' or special conservation grade envelopes. Best conditions: 18°C at 40% relative humidity.
Signs of acetic acid decay (otherwise known as ‘vinegar syndrome’) and mould growth. Not only can these damage certain types of film, but they also present a health hazard when inhaled. Seek specialist help if you notice mould or a strong vinegar smell on your photographs.
