Maintaining good air quality in cultural institutions like galleries, libraries, archives and museums (GLAM) is essential for preserving valuable collections and ensuring the well-being of visitors and staff. One major threat to indoor air quality is the buildup of microscopic dust particles, known as particulate matter. These tiny airborne particles can scratch, discolor or degrade delicate materials while affecting people’s health.
READ: Why Museums Need Industrial Air Filters to Protect Staff and Artifacts
Poor air quality undermines the fundamental goal of preventative conservation, which is to ensure that cultural collections remain stable over long periods of time (hundreds to thousands of years). According to The Canadian Conservation Institute, accumulation of fine particulate matter can result in various forms of material degradation, including loss of gloss, darkening of pigments, accelerated oxidation and fading.
To address these challenges, Camfil provides sustainable, high-efficiency air filtration solutions designed for museums and cultural institutions. HVAC systems with professionally specified air filtration can eliminate tiny particles and gases from the air to protect valuable artifacts and support a healthier space for everyone.
This article offers guidance on air quality solutions for GLAM facilities, helping to preserve collections and create safer, more comfortable spaces for both the public and staff.
The Air Quality Challenges Facing GLAM Institutions
GLAM institutions display collections for the public and work to preserve them for the future. However, their environments face many air quality threats that are often invisible but can cause serious damage.
Pollutants and Particulate Matter
Dust, soot, pollen, textile fibers and skin flakes can accumulate on surfaces and inside display cases, putting collections at risk. Smaller particles can stay in the air and travel to remote areas of a room.
These particles come from multiple sources:
- Outdoor pollution coming in through fugitive sources such as open windows, loading bay and poorly-sealed doors
- Visitors, who track in dust particles and stir them up through movement, especially in high-traffic exhibition areas
- Poorly filtered or unsealed HVAC intake systems
- Carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture, which can release fibers and trap dust
- Cleaning agents, which may disperse particles depending on the agents
- Construction materials such as concrete that can release dust during renovation or wear
These minute airborne particles can cause scratching and lead to discoloration of paintings, manuscripts, and sculptures. Dust particles smaller than 10 microns (PM10) are particularly harmful as they can settle in the tiny cracks of paper and paint, where they cause deterioration by attracting pollutants and moisture.
Dust damage is compounded during cleaning, where abrasive particles can scratch or lift fragile surfaces. This is especially risky for historical manuscripts and materials that are over 100 years old.
Gaseous Pollutants and Chemical Degradation
Gaseous contaminants such as ozone (O₃), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are typically found in outside air but can make their way indoors. Ozone is particularly destructive to the preservation of museum artifacts since it is extremely reactive. Once inside, the gases can chemically react with sensitive materials like paper, fabrics, textiles, wood, leather and metals to accelerate fading, yellowing and embrittlement.
In addition, these pollutants can contribute to metal corrosion, oxidation of bronze and silver artifacts and acidification of organic materials. The result is often discoloration, structural weakening and long-term material breakdown.
Internal sources like adhesives, cleaning agents and off-gassing from furnishings or even visitors’ clothing can bring in harmful toxic gases into GLAM spaces. Molecular air filtration provides a cost-effective method for removing gaseous pollutants, ensuring safe conditions for storage and display.
Microbial Threats
Mold, fungal spores and other bioaerosols are a serious threat to the health of individuals and the conservation of collections in GLAM institutions. These biological contaminants thrive in high humidity and organic environments like paper, textiles and leather.
Once established, mold can permanently ruin organic artifacts by staining surfaces, weakening structural fibers and accelerating decay. Airborne spores and bioaerosols can pose health risks to staff and visitors, triggering allergic reactions, respiratory issues and other health concerns.
Climate and Ventilation Challenges
Many historical buildings housing GLAM institutions have outdated or, in some extreme cases, no HVAC systems, resulting in poor air circulation that allows airborne contaminants to settle and deposit. HVAC systems are designed to recirculate a certain percentage of air, which, if not properly filtered, circulates that air throughout the facility, moving particles from one area to another..
Balancing visitor comfort (68°-72° F) with cooler, more stable temperatures preferred for collection preservation can increase relative humidity and reduce air circulation, creating an environment where airborne contaminants can settle on sensitive materials.
High occupancy levels also cause contamination. Increased foot traffic brings in more dust, skin flakes and pollutants, while elevated CO2 and humidity levels can stress HVAC performance and accelerate material degradation.
Efforts to reduce energy consumption through reduced rates of air exchange can actually reduce air quality. Without adequate ventilation, pollutants become trapped and harmful particulates and gases can accumulate over time.
Air Quality Needs Across Different Areas of a GLAM Facility
Not all areas of a cultural institution require the same level of air quality control. Understanding the unique functions and needs of each space enables targeted, cost-effective air filtration solutions that protect collections and occupants.
Library and Reading Rooms
Materials in books and manuscripts housed in libraries and reading rooms are exposed to airborne dust, acidic gases and moisture variations. Fine particulate matter can cause paper yellowing, brittleness and ink fading, with ozone exposure accelerating paper deterioration. A good air filtration system prevents permanent collection loss and improves patron comfort.
Conservation Laboratories
Conservation and restoration labs require cleanroom-quality air to ensure that delicate treatments are not compromised by airborne contaminants. These spaces must also prevent the introduction of new pollutants during restoration processes. Advanced molecular air filtration is essential for capturing VOCs released by adhesives, solvents and cleaning agents commonly used in conservation work. Such filtration protects conservators by minimizing exposure to toxic chemicals during extended treatment sessions.
Storage and Archives
Storage and archival areas demand stringent air quality controls in cultural facilities. These rooms are utilized for long-term storage of materials, some which are never seen by the public, so environmental stability and pollutant control is a top priority.
To protect these irreplaceable collections, storage environments must maintain tightly-controlled conditions like stable temperature and humidity levels and trace amounts of pollutants. This includes particulate matter, gaseous pollutants and microbial contaminants such as mold spores.
Since these spaces often operate with low air exchange rates to conserve energy and maintain consistent environmental conditions, high-efficiency filtration is critical. Without it, even small amounts of airborne contamination can accumulate over time, posing significant risks to the longevity of stored items.
Art Galleries and Exhibition Halls
Galleries and exhibit spaces present unique air quality challenges due to heavy foot traffic, which raises levels of dust, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and bioaerosols. These areas must carefully balance environmental control with aesthetic and functional considerations.
Lighting and spotlights, while essential for purposes of display, can produce heat and ozone, both known to accelerate the deterioration of sensitive materials. Unlike stored items, exhibited works are continuously exposed to these environmental stressors, making them more vulnerable.
Effective air quality strategies in exhibition spaces must balance preservation needs with visual presentation, ensuring protective systems remain unobtrusive. Air filtration and ventilation systems must be discreet and address both particulate and gaseous pollutants without intruding on the visual experience.
Museum Collections (Back-of-House)
Behind the scenes, off-show items are often even more fragile and susceptible than those in public exhibitions. These items, such as archaeological remains, textiles, manuscripts and sculptures, require carefully controlled environments to safeguard them in the long term.
Back-of-house storage areas must be well controlled to prevent corrosion, discoloration and mold growth, which can be triggered by even minor differences in air quality, humidity or temperature. Since these objects are usually waiting for conservation, research or eventual display, they will remain in storage for long periods, increasing their exposure to environmental threats.
Visitor and Public Areas
Indoor air quality in public spaces such as lobbies, cafeterias, gift shops and auditoriums plays a vital role in the visitor experience. Clean, healthy indoor environments are not only more comfortable but also reflect an institution’s professionalism and commitment to public health.
Effective air filtration in these areas helps protect staff, volunteers and visitors from allergens, pollutants and airborne pathogens. In the post-pandemic era, clean indoor air has moved from a desirable feature to an expectation and a key factor in building trust and confidence among visitors.
Return on Investment
Prevention vs. Restoration
The cost of restoring artwork, particularly large or historic pieces, can be very high. According to industry estimates, the restoration of a severely damaged painting can range from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the extent of the structural issue, paint loss and conservation needs.
Installing a comprehensive, facility-wide air filtration system can be comparative in price, depending on facility size, climate control needs and current heating and cooling setup. With regular maintenance, these air systems typically last 10-20 years, helping protect valuable collections and lower costs over time.
Better air quality can also lower liability risk and insurance costs. Many institutions that lend artwork require environmental controls for loaned artwork. In addition, grant funding often expects institutions to show a commitment to sustainability and preservation, which air filtration supports.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Modern high-efficiency filters capture tiny particles without blocking airflow, so HVAC systems run more efficiently. This can save 15-30% on energy by using less fan power, which lowers operational costs. Longer filter life also means fewer replacements, less maintenance and reduced waste.
Switching to efficient filtration systems can help institutions earn Energy Star certification and LEED credits, which support meeting local, state or federal sustainability mandates. These certifications also make funding applications stronger, especially when energy efficiency and sustainability are a requirement.
Reputation and Stewardship: Mission-Driven Investment
Investing in air quality is more than an operational upgrade for GLAM institutions; it reflects their mission and values. Good air quality reflects a commitment to preservation and public responsibility. It demonstrates forward-thinking leadership and professionalism, aligning with best practices in preventative conservation and facility management.
Sustaining high air quality levels draws in donors and grants that prioritize sustainability, risk management and long-term care. It gives an institution a competitive advantage to host travelling exhibitions. Many lenders demand strict environmental controls.
Best Practices and Solutions from Camfil
For over 60 years, Camfil has partnered with cultural institutions worldwide to offer specialized solutions in molecular and air filtration. From the Uffizi in Florence to the British Library in London and Moderna Museet in Stockholm, Camfil’s filtration systems protect some of the world’s most valuable artifacts and artworks from harmful air pollutants.
Whether retrofitting HVAC systems in historic buildings or creating filtration for modern museums with advanced environmental controls, Camfil provides tailored air filtration solutions that protect irreplaceable cultural treasures and support optimal indoor air quality.
Particulate Filtration: First Line of Defense
Dust and airborne particles can compromise indoor air quality, threatening both cultural assets and the health of building occupants. Air filters come in various configurations, including metal-framed box-style, bag-style, or pleated panel filters, which range in efficiency from MERV 8/8A for single–filtration stage systems to MERV 16/16A as final filters in multistage systems. For critical conservation and exhibition areas, several models feature HEPA-grade efficiency, which capture a minimum of 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Recommended Solutions:
- CityCarb I: Works as a 2-in-1 filter for removing solid and gaseous contaminants in one stage.
- Hi-Flo ES: An energy-efficiency pocket filter ideal as a primary filter in central HVAC systems.
- Durafil Compac: Featuring a compact design with full-service performance, this air filter is ideal for spaces with space limitations, such as lobbies and high-traffic public areas.
- Durafil ES3: This energy-efficient filter maintains a low pressure drop and consistent performance.
- 30/30 Dual 9: This dual-layer filter enhances particle removal. It serves as an excellent prefilter for sensitive areas such as exhibition halls and storage vaults.
Molecular Filtration: Chemical and Gaseous Pollutant Control
Gaseous contaminants, like ozone, nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide and VOCs, can enter museum environments from outside air or through off-gassing of building materials. These pollutants can degrade valuable museum pieces and pose health risks to occupants.
Camfil’s molecular air filtration solutions are designed to neutralize these harmful gases and odors. They can be configured for a wide range of contaminants specific to an application, such as conservation labs and archival storage, to extend artifact lifespan, reduce restoration costs and provide a cleaner workspace for conservators.
Recommended Solutions:
- CityCarb CH: Contains impregnated activated carbon to remove acetic and formic acid and other corrosive gases. Ideal for archives and storage areas.
- CamCarb VC: This high-capacity cylindrical filter offers VOC control for conservation labs.
- CamCarb XG: Offers long service life with low maintenance, minimizing operational disruptions
- CityPleat: Premium prefilter with both particulate and molecular air filtration capabilities in a single filter.
Customized Air Handling for Heritage Sites
Air filtration does not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Many GLAM facilities are located in historic buildings with unique HVAC challenges such as limited space, aging fans or non-standard ductwork layouts. Integrating modern filtration into legacy systems requires expertise and flexible design solutions.
Camfil custom-engineered solutions include:
- Low-pressure drop filters that maintain airflow in systems with aging or underpowered fans.
- Compact filter designs that fit into tight mechanical rooms or non-standard housings.
- Modular and scalable systems that allow phased upgrades with minimal operational disruption.
In addition, Camfil works with facilities to solve unique challenges, such as alternatives for modifying or replacing multiple vitrines.
Conclusion
GLAM institutions have a dual responsibility to protect valuable collections and provide healthy, welcoming environments supported by clean indoor air. Often, air quality management is only addressed after damage occurs or when visitors and staff raise concerns. A proactive approach to air filtration can prevent deterioration, reduce risks, lower restoration and conservation costs and protect the institution’s reputation.
Camfil believes that air quality is foundational to cultural stewardship. Whether a small museum or a world-renowned gallery, every GLAM institution deserves clean air regardless of size or budget. Our 5-Star Premium Air Filters are designed to substantially reduce HVAC-related energy consumption, require fewer change-outs, minimize waste and maintain their particle capture efficiency over time.
Helping GLAM facilities make informed decisions about air filtration, Camfil recognizes that each cultural institution is unique, requiring customized solutions to meet specific air quality standards, conservation needs, and infrastructure constraints.
Contact Camfil to learn more about the full range of air filtration solutions tailored for museums, libraries, archives and cultural institutions.
Download our brochure on clean air solutions for cultural heritage institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: Why is air quality important in museums and galleries?
Answer: Air quality is critical in museums and galleries because airborne pollutants—including dust, ozone, sulfur dioxide, and VOCs—cause irreversible damage to artifacts, paintings, textiles, and manuscripts. Poor air quality also affects the health of visitors and staff, leading to respiratory issues and reduced comfort. Effective air filtration protects irreplaceable collections, extends artifact lifespans, and creates a safe, welcoming environment for the public.
FAQ 2: What are the most common air pollutants in cultural institutions?
Answer: The most common air pollutants in museums, libraries, and archives include:
- Particulate matter: Dust, pollen, soot
- Gaseous pollutants: Ozone (O₃), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Bioaerosols: Mold spores, bacteria, fungal growth
These contaminants cause fading, yellowing, embrittlement, corrosion, and microbial damage to collections.
FAQ 3: How does poor air quality damage artifacts and collections?
Answer: Poor air quality damages artifacts through:
- Physical damage: Dust particles scratch delicate surfaces
- Chemical reactions: Ozone and acidic gases accelerate fading, yellowing, and embrittlement of paper, textiles, and pigments
- Corrosion: Sulfur compounds tarnish metals
- Microbial growth: High humidity and spores cause mold on organic materials
This damage is often irreversible and accumulates silently over time.
FAQ 4: What type of air filters are used in museums?
Answer: Museums use two main types of air filters:
- Particulate filters: HEPA and high-efficiency filters (e.g., Camfil’s Hi-Flo ES, Durafil ES3) remove dust, pollen, and fine particles
- Molecular filters: Activated carbon and specialty media (e.g., CityCarb CH, CamCarb XG) remove gaseous pollutants like ozone, SO₂, NOₓ, and VOCs
Many institutions use both types for comprehensive protection.
FAQ 5: How much does a museum air filtration system cost?
Answer: Museum air filtration systems typically cost between $10,000 and $75,000, depending on facility size, existing HVAC infrastructure, and air quality requirements. While this is a significant investment, it is far less expensive than artifact restoration ($5,000-$100,000 per item) or mold remediation ($50,000-$500,000+). Additionally, energy-efficient filters reduce operational costs by 15-30%, providing long-term ROI.
FAQ 6: What is molecular filtration, and why is it important for archives?
Answer: Molecular filtration uses activated carbon and chemically treated media to remove gaseous pollutants like ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and VOCs. This is critical for archives because these gases cause paper yellowing, embrittlement, and ink fading. Unlike particulate filters, molecular filters target invisible chemical threats that cause irreversible long-term damage to manuscripts, books, and documents.
FAQ 7: How often should museum air filters be replaced?
Answer: Museum air filters should be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on:
- Filter type (particulate vs. molecular)
- Local air quality (urban vs. rural)
- Facility usage (visitor traffic, special events)
- HVAC system design
Regular replacement ensures optimal performance. Facilities should also implement IAQ monitoring to track pollutant levels and adjust maintenance schedules accordingly.
FAQ 8: Can air filtration help prevent mold in museum collections?
Answer: Yes. Air filtration helps prevent mold by:
- Removing mold spores and bioaerosols from circulating air
- Reducing humidity (when combined with proper HVAC control)
- Preventing spore colonization on artifacts
However, filtration alone is not sufficient. Museums must also maintain stable humidity levels (45-55% RH), ensure proper ventilation, and monitor for water intrusion or leaks.
FAQ 9: What is the difference between air quality needs in exhibition halls vs. storage areas?
Answer: Exhibition halls have high visitor traffic, increasing dust, CO₂, and bioaerosols. They require robust particulate filtration and frequent filter changes. Displayed works are more vulnerable due to lighting and environmental fluctuations.
Storage areas house items long-term and require the highest air quality standards. Low air exchange rates mean filtration must be extremely efficient. Both particulate and molecular filtration are essential to prevent slow, cumulative damage to stored collections.
FAQ 10: How does air quality affect visitor experience in museums?
Answer: Poor air quality affects visitor experience through:
- Discomfort: Musty odors, stale air, and allergens reduce satisfaction
- Health: Respiratory irritation and allergy symptoms
- Perception: Visitors associate poor air quality with neglect and unprofessionalism
Conversely, clean, fresh air enhances comfort, increases dwell time, and encourages repeat visits. Post-pandemic, visitors expect institutions to prioritize air quality for safety and trust.
