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Summary
- Maintain ceramics in a stable environment with temperatures in the range 15 - 25 °C, within a relative humidity range of 40 - 60 % and with maximum variations of 4 °C and 5 % respectively within any 24 hour period.
- Avoid extremes or sudden changes in temperature and relative humidity to minimise damage to glaze, ceramic or adhesives.
- Store in a stable dust-free environment. Avoid stacking.
- Handle carefully, with disposable rubber gloves or clean, bare hands.
- Carry objects one at a time, with support provided at the base and side. Use a padded tray to carry a group of objects.
- Examine and document objects thoroughly before beginning cleaning or other treatment.
- Use dry cleaning methods before wet or chemical treatments. Test water, solvents and any other chemicals which come into contact with ceramic materials, on an inconspicuous part of the object.
- Desalinate objects recovered from burial or marine sites. Do not allow objects to dry before desalination is complete.
- For repairs, choose adhesives that are reversible and have good ageing properties. Methodically plan and execute the joining of broken ceramics.
