Dust removal is an important part of preventive conservation. Dust can damage collections in a number of ways, causing:

• surface soiling;
• abrasion;
• chemical deterioration, such as acidification, oxidation and sulphation;
• biological damage by encouraging the growth of mould (when relative humidity is high) and attracting pests.

Depending on the storage conditions, the amount of dust and the cleaning method used, dust removal may take place either in the storage areas themselves or in a dedicated workspace. We use high-quality equipment for both manual and mechanical dust removal to ensure that collections are cleaned safely and effectively.

 

Specialised staff

Dust removal is carried out by staff trained in the safe handling of collection items. When necessary, they are supported by conservation specialists.

 

Specialised work material

Given the size of KBR’s collections, automated equipment is used wherever possible to remove dust from large numbers of items efficiently. This approach is only suitable, however, when the condition and size of the items allow it. Only items in good condition, with no risk of damage, can be treated in this way.

Like many other major heritage institutions, KBR uses a Depulvera machine designed specifically for this purpose. In just a few seconds, a series of soft rotating brushes, combined with a HEPA-filter vacuum system, removes dust from all sides of a book.