NEMOSINE - The future of media storage: A state of the art packaging concept for storage and conservation of 20th century cultural heritage artefacts based on cellulose derivatives

NEMOSINE is an EU founded project for the development of innovative packaging solutions for storage and conservation of audiovisual media and cultural heritage artefacts based on cellulose derivatives. The objective is to improve traditional storage solutions by developing an innovative package with the main goal of energy saving and extending the life time of the media. In contrast to conventional tape boxes and film cans, the packages will be equipped with the latest sensor technology based on multi-nano sensors for different gases, adsorbers for decomposition products and a control software platform that simulates degradation processes and then will predict accurate protective treatments.

Beyond the state of the art, NEMOSINE is developing the following modular and integrated products: High O2 barrier and active packaging using non-odour additives; Active acid adsorbers based on functionalized Metal Organic Framework (MOFs) integrated in innovative porous structures; Gas detection sensors based on nanotechnology for monitoring degradation products; Multi-scale model to correlate degradation & sensor signals for maintenance prediction; Packaging with modular design to fulfill the technical & economical requirements of the different cultural heritage items made by cellulose derivatives; Curative packages containing controlled release of natural antifungal additives.

The modular solution is one of main advantages of the innovative package. This design will allow to provide different versions of the product with more or less technology included in the solution: Protective (basic and premium model), and Curative (for damaged tapes). In this way, the smart package can be adapted to different types of applications, balancing real value of the content and the package cost. The presentation outlines the concept and actual status of the package development and presents the first results based on our research questions.