The Photographic Activity Test (PAT) is an international standard (ISO 18916) widely applied within the cultural heritage field to predict possible chemical interactions between photographs and their enclosure materials (e.g. albums, frames, storage materials) after prolonged contact. This workshop will provide an overview of the importance of materials testing with particular regards to the PAT, including the test’s history, development and application, how it is run, and interpretation of results. The PAT’s relation to other ISO standards relevant to the cultural heritage field will also be covered. While not intended to comprehensively teach participants how to run the test, participants will leave this workshop with an in-depth understanding of how the test is performed and knowledge of how the PAT fits into the scope of materials testing within the cultural heritage field.

The workshop will be limited to a maximum of 12 attendees. Registration per individual is $250 and participants are responsible for their own travel, meals, and lodging costs. Registration ends June 30, 2023 or when the workshop is full.

Audience
Collection professionals who are interested in learning more about ISO standards, the PAT, and/or materials testing.

Manufacturers and distributors of storage and enclosure materials who work with museums, archives, and libraries, utilize the PAT, and/or are interested in understanding ISO testing as it applies to the cultural heritage field.

Instructor
Meredith Sharpes Noyes, Research Scientist