Occurence of formaldehyde and organic acids in the museum environment

In the curse of an interdisciplinary research project, measurements of formaldehyde and organic acids were carried out using active sampling and chemical analysis. Conspicuous concentrations were detected in a storage room and a display case, both furnished with wood and derived timber products, respectively. In some cases, health related German indoor air guideline values are exceeded. Damage to the acid-sensitive object materials stored inside cannot be excluded due to increased concentrations.