Presentation Case and Long Term Storage

[Gene]

Any impervious material will, of course, create a possible condensation problem with changes in temperature. But if the humidity is reasonably constant, that should not necessarily be a problem in long term storage.


Plastics, foam, paper, etc., are another problem altogether. Even without moisture, some of these materials may contain substances which will ultimately cause discoloration or corrosion. The most infamous are the soft plastics, like polyvinlchloride (PVC)which can slowly release hydrogen chloride gas, as well as sticky chemical plasticizers. As I'm sure you know, hydrogen chloride combines with the moisture in the air to form hydrochloric acid -- which ain't gonna improve the appearance or condition of your Lugers!


Similarly, ordinary paper contains sulphur which, over time, will can either directly react with metals, or produce sulphuric acid. Many glues and adhesives (used to cement a storage box or liner) contain very corrosive

chemicals. Same with rubber materials or foam.


Not all plastics or other synthetic materials are problematical, of course. For example, polyethelene, lucite, and mylar are perfectly fine for long term storage.


If you can tolerate the other effects on your senses, mothballs will keep airborne contaminants from entering your storage container by keeping a positive pressure within your storage containers. This is how things like the Metal Safe Corrosion Inhibitor works.