OUR FAQs Can help

How is film restoration different from film conservation?

Film restoration involves the process of repairing or reconstructing a film to restore it to its original quality or intended state. The primary objective of film restoration is to remove or reduce physical, chemical, or visual damage that may have occurred over time. This may include film cleaning, splice repairs, torn or damaged film reels, digital scanning, improving color fidelity, and enhancing overall image and sound quality. Advanced technologies and specialized software are often used to repair or reconstruct damaged or missing portions of the film.

Film conservation focuses on the long-term preservation and maintenance of films in their existing condition. The primary objective of film conservation is to prevent further deterioration and ensure that the film remains stable and accessible for future generations. Conservation practices include proper storage, handling, and environmental conditions to slow down the aging and degradation processes. They also involve documentation, cataloging, and creating backups or duplicates to mitigate risks of loss or irreparable damage.

Can all decayed film be restored?

While we can repair and restore some film, no preservationists can bring film in advanced stages of decay back to its original state. That’s why we urge collection owners to act with urgency and priority to preserve their irreplaceable media.

What is safety film?

Safety film, also known as safety base or safety stock, refers to a type of film base that was introduced as a safer alternative in 1950 to the highly flammable nitrate film used in early motion pictures. Safety film is made from cellulose acetate or polyester, which are each non-flammable materials.  Camera original negative film is almost exclusively captured on cellulose acetate-based emulsions.

What are key characteristics & features of cellulose acetate film base?

Cellulose acetate film has several key advantages over older nitrate film. These include:
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   • Non-flammable: Cellulose acetate film is designed to be non-flammable, unlike nitrate film, which is highly combustible. This property significantly reduced the risk of fire hazards associated with film storage, handling, and projection.
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   • Restoration: Acetate-based films can be more easily repaired and film cement can be used to restore splices which are a common problem with age.  Films captured or printed on acetate base are susceptible to the development of vinegar syndrome which is described in more depth below.
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   • Availability: Safety film became the standard in the motion picture industry during the mid-20th century. Films produced after 1950 were shot on safety film and it continues to be used in the industry today.

What about polyester film base?

Polyester film base (also known as polyethylene terephthalate or PET, and by the Kodak tradename of ESTAR) has several key characteristics & features, including:

   • Non-Flammable: polyester film base is also designed to be non-flammable.
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   • Durability: Polyester-based film is widely used for exhibition of film in theaters due to its strength and resistance to handling issues and environmental changes.  Polyester is not susceptible to vinegar syndrome, decomposition, or shrinkage over time resulting in improved long-term storage.
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   • Restoration: Polyester-based films are not easily repaired.  While base tears and splice deterioration are minimized due to the strength of polyester and ultrasonic splices, the inability to easily make repairs exists.

Why is it important to store film in a cool dry environment?

Cellulose acetate film is a delicate and sensitive medium that can be easily damaged by environmental factors such as heat, moisture, and humidity. When film is stored in warm, humid conditions, it can become warped, curled, or even develop a vinegar odor due to the breakdown of the celluloid material. This can cause serious damage to the image quality and overall stability of the film.
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Moisture can also cause mold or mildew to grow on the film, which can permanently damage the images and make them unusable. Humidity can also cause the acetate film to expand and contract, causing the emulsion to separate from the base and leading to a loss of image quality.
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Keeping film in a cool, dry environment can help ensure that the images on the film remain stable, clear, and vibrant. This is important for archival purposes, as well as for preserving the artistic and historical significance of the film. Proper storage also helps to extend the lifespan of the film and prevent the need for costly restoration efforts in the future.

Can all damaged film be restored?

It depends on the type and extent of the deterioration. Minor damage like surface contamination and edge nicks can be removed or repaired. Some early signs of film deterioration can be stabilized, and the media preserved in digital format. But major damage caused by environmental factors like excessive water or heat, improper handling and storage, and most notably neglect can all lead to unrecoverable damage, sometimes resulting in a piece of film substrate that is essentially worthless.

What is “vinegar syndrome” and why is it so damaging to film archives?

Aptly named because of the pungent odor it causes, “vinegar syndrome” is the label film preservationists have given to the process of acetate film deterioration. It’s caused by deacetylation, a chemical reaction that forms acetic acid, producing a characteristic smell like vinegar. Vinegar syndrome signals that the breakdown process has begun and requires immediate attention because the process is autocatalytic, meaning it speeds itself up over time. Acetic acid can cause several types of damage:
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   • Warping: The acid can cause the film base to shrink, causing it to warp and become brittle, making it difficult or impossible to handle or project.
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   • Image distortion: The acid can cause the emulsion layer to separate from the base, resulting in image distortion or even complete loss of image quality due to delamination.
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   • Shrinkage: Advanced vinegar syndrome can cause severe film shrinkage which prevents other restorative processes such as film scanning from being an option.
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Vinegar syndrome is a slow process that can occur over many years, but once it starts it can only be slowed, not reversed. It is important for film professionals to take steps to prevent vinegar syndrome by storing film in a cool, dry environment and monitoring the condition of their collections regularly.

Are cardboard boxes appropriate storage containers for film?

Cardboard boxes are commonly used for storage, but they are not the correct container for storing film. Reasons include:

   • Acidic environment: Cardboard boxes can emit acid and lignin compounds that can cause damage to the film over time. This is because the chemicals used to make the cardboard can leach out and cause the film to deteriorate.
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   • Poor environmental control: Proper film cans must be vented to allow for off-gassing with the natural aging of film and increase the ability to benefit from the temperature and humidity of the environment. Sealed boxes can advance issues such as mold growth, warping, and the onset of vinegar syndrome.
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   • Physical damage: Cardboard boxes are not sturdy enough to protect film from physical damage, such as bending or crushing. This can cause damage to the film, making it difficult or impossible to play.
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   • Light sensitivity: Cardboard boxes do not provide adequate protection from light, which can cause fading and discoloration of the film over time.
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For these reasons, film professionals prefer to use specialized film storage containers, such as anodized metal, polypropylene or polyethylene containers, which are designed to provide a stable and protective environment for film storage. These containers are acid-free, vented, and able to benefit from the temperature and humidity of the environment. They also provide adequate protection from light, physical damage, and offer a more accessible method of storing film.

What is cellulose nitrate film?

Cellulose nitrate film, also known as nitrate film, was an early type of film base that was widely used in the motion picture industry from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. It played a significant role in the development of cinema but is no longer in use due to its highly flammable and unstable nature.

What are some key characteristics of nitrate film?

Here's an overview of cellulose nitrate film:

   • Composition: Cellulose nitrate film is made from cellulose, which is derived from plant fibers such as wood pulp or cotton. The cellulose is chemically treated with nitric acid, resulting in a compound known as cellulose nitrate or nitrocellulose. This compound is highly flammable and combustible.
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   • Flammability: Nitrate film is extremely flammable and can easily ignite when exposed to heat, flames, or sparks. It burns rapidly and produces its own oxygen supply, making it difficult to extinguish once ignited. This property led to numerous fires in film storage facilities and movie theaters, posing significant risks to life and property.
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   • Decomposition: Over time, cellulose nitrate film undergoes a process called nitrate decomposition. It releases harmful gases such as nitrogen dioxide and corrosive acids, causing the film to deteriorate and become brittle. This deterioration can lead to the film becoming highly unstable and prone to spontaneous combustion.
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   • Historical Significance: Despite its hazardous properties, cellulose nitrate film played a crucial role in the early development of cinema. Many historical films, documentaries, and important cinematic works were shot and stored on nitrate film, capturing significant moments in history and culture.
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   • Discontinuation: Due to the safety hazards associated with nitrate film, its use was gradually phased out and replaced by safety film, such as cellulose acetate or polyester-based films. The transition to safety film began in the late 1940s and by 1950 nitrate film was no longer widely used.

Is nitrate film still in use today?

Today, nitrate film is considered highly dangerous and requires specialized handling and storage practices. Film archives and institutions take strict precautions when dealing with nitrate film collections to ensure the safety of both the film material and personnel. Efforts are made to digitize and preserve the content of nitrate films to ensure their long-term accessibility while mitigating the risks associated with their physical preservation.

What makes nitrate film dangerous?

Nitrate film is considered dangerous because it is highly flammable and can deteriorate rapidly, leading to a serious fire hazard. Nitrate film contains nitrocellulose, a highly flammable substance that can spontaneously ignite under the right conditions. In addition, nitrate film can deteriorate quickly, leading to a loss of image quality and structural integrity, and producing acetic acid and other toxic fumes that can pose a serious health risk.

What is needed to properly handle & store nitrate film?

Guidelines to properly handle and store nitrate film include:
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   • Proper storage conditions: Nitrate film should be stored in a cool, dry environment with a temperature range of 40°F to 60°F and a relative humidity of less than 50%. The film should be stored in containers specifically designed for nitrate film, such as metal cans or safety film cans, that are designed to protect the film from light, moisture, and other environmental factors.
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   • Handling with care: Nitrate film should be handled with care and not subjected to rough treatment or excessive handling. Film professionals should wear gloves when handling nitrate film and should not bend, fold, or damage the film in any way.
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   • Proper fire suppression: Nitrate film storage facilities should have proper fire suppression systems in place, such as fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and automatic sprinkler systems, to minimize the risk of fire.
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   • Ventilation: Nitrate film storage facilities should have proper ventilation to ensure that toxic fumes produced by the deteriorating film are not inhaled by the personnel.
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   • Film duplication: Nitrate film should be duplicated onto a safer and more stable film stock, such as polyester, to ensure that the images and information contained on the nitrate film are preserved for future generations.
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   • Nitrate film can only be deaccessioned by a certified hazardous goods destruction provider.
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Nitrate film experts at PRO-TEK are ready to help you understand your options and undertake the proper steps for handling and storage.

Can nitrate film be shipped?

Shipping cellulose nitrate film is highly regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and is subject to the agency’s Hazardous Materials Regulations due to its flammability and potential risks. In general, the transportation of nitrate film is discouraged, especially for long distances or international shipments.

Here are some key considerations regarding shipping nitrate film:
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   • Regulations: Different countries and regions have specific regulations and restrictions concerning the transportation of nitrate film. These regulations are typically implemented for safety reasons and to prevent potential fire hazards during transit.
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   • Specialized Carriers: If nitrate film must be transported, it usually requires specialized carriers with experience and expertise in handling hazardous materials. These carriers are familiar with the safety protocols and precautions necessary for transporting flammable substances. You may not give nitrate film to a carrier like FedEx or UPS without proper packaging, labeling and preparation in accordance with those regulations, including HAZMAT (hazardous material) training. The U.S. Postal Service does not ship nitrate film.
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   • Packaging Requirements: Nitrate film must be packaged in appropriate containers that meet the specific regulatory standards. These containers are designed to minimize the risk of fire and protect the film from external heat sources. The packaging may include metal cans or specially treated containers that provide additional fire resistance.
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   • Documentation: Proper documentation is crucial when shipping nitrate film. It may include declarations of the film's content, its classification as a hazardous material, and compliance with relevant transportation regulations. Adequate labeling and marking of the packages are also necessary to indicate the presence of flammable material.
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   • Insurance: Given the risks associated with transporting nitrate film, insurance coverage that includes adequate protection against fire, loss, or damage is highly recommended.
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Nitrate film experts at PRO-TEK are Certified Nitrate Handlers and Shippers who can advise you on nitrate film shipping requirements.

What does “born digital” mean?

The term “born digital” refers to content or information that originates or is created in a digital format, without being converted from analog or physical sources. Other terms that are synonymous with born-digital include natively- or native-digital, digital-first and digital-exclusive.

Here are a few key characteristics:
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   • Creation: Born-digital content is created using digital technologies, software, and devices from the beginning. It may include digital photographs, digital artwork, digitally recorded audio or video, e-books, web pages, social media posts, and other forms of digital media.
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   • No Analog Conversion: Unlike analog or physical media, born-digital content does not go through a process of conversion from a physical or analog format to a digital form. It is born directly in a digital state, eliminating the need for digitization efforts.
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   • Native Digital Features: Born-digital content often takes advantage of the unique capabilities and features provided by digital technologies. This can include interactivity, hyperlinking, multimedia integration, searchability, scalability, and the ability to be easily duplicated and shared.
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   • Preservation Challenges: While born-digitalcontent offers advantages in terms of accessibility, distribution, and ease of reproduction, it also presents challenges for long-term preservation. Digital formats can become obsolete, software compatibility issues may arise, and digital content may be subject to loss or degradation without appropriate preservation strategies.
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Born-digital content has become increasingly prevalent in the modern digital era, as technology advancements have made it easier and more accessible to create and distribute content in digital formats. PRO-TEK’s digital media experts can advise on best practices for born-digital content and can develop customized preservation programs.

Can digital media degrade over time like analog (e.g., film, tape, paper) media?

Yes, media in digital format can degrade or become obsolete over time and that includes media that is born-digital or digitized via scanning. Specific factors that can contribute to the degradation or loss of digital media include:
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   • Data Corruption: Digital files can be susceptible to data corruption, which can occur due to errors in storage, transmission, or handling. ”Bit rot”, also known as data decay or silent data corruption, is a phenomenon where individual bits within a file can become flipped or altered over time, leading to data errors or loss.
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   • Media Obsolescence: Digital media formats and storage devices can become obsolete over time. Older file formats may become unsupported by modern software or hardware, making it challenging to access or read the digital content.
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   • Software and Hardware Compatibility: Changes in software and hardware can impact the ability to access and use digital files. As technology evolves, older file formats may no longer be compatible with new software applications or operating systems, making it difficult to open or interpret the files correctly.
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   • Data Storage Lifespan: The lifespan of digital storage media can vary depending on the type of media used. Magnetic hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), optical discs, and flash drives all have different durability and longevity characteristics. Over time, storage media can degrade, suffer from mechanical failures, or experience data loss.
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To mitigate the risks associated with digital media degradation, proper digital preservation practices are essential. This includes regular backups, migration to new file formats, monitoring for data corruption, and ensuring multiple copies of digital files are stored in different locations. PRO-TEK’s digital media experts can assist you in developing appropriate preservation programs.

What is film scanning?

Film scanning is the process of digitizing analog film, which involves capturing the image data from the film and converting it into a digital format. The digital file can then be edited, color corrected, and restored.
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The advantages of the film scanning process include:
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   • Dust and scratch removal: Dust and scratches on the film can cause visual artifacts and degraded image quality. Removal of these artifacts is possible after digitization.
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   • Color correction: Film stocks and film images can vary in color balance, contrast, and saturation over time. It is possible to correct these issues during and after scanning to ensure a consistent and accurate representation of the image.
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   • Grain management: Film has a unique texture known as grain that can be accentuated or reduced during scanning. It is important to properly manage grain to ensure that the scanned images retain the desired level of detail and texture.
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   • Dynamic range: Film has a larger dynamic range compared to digital cameras, and it is important to properly capture this range during scanning to ensure that the images have a good level of detail in both the highlights and shadows.
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Having the proper equipment, experience, and expertise is critical for ensuring high-quality film scanning results. An experienced film scanning provider will have a deep understanding of the film scanning process and the skills necessary to properly handle and digitize the film. They will also have access to high-end film scanners that are capable of capturing the greatest dynamic range and color information from the film.

What are the advantages of having advanced digital services like film scanning done in the same secure facility where film is stored?

Providing advanced digital services, such as film scanning, in the same secure facility where the film is stored can offer several advantages for film professionals:
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   • Security and protection: Film archives store irreplaceable and valuable assets, and it is important to ensure that they are protected from theft, damage, or loss. By performing the scanning in the same secure facility where the film is stored, film professionals can ensure that the original film is protected from any risks associated with transportation.
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   • Quality control: Film scanning is a complex process that requires a great deal of experience, expertise, and the right equipment to ensure high-quality results. By performing the film inspection and preparation for scanning in the same facility where the film is stored, film professionals can have greater control over the scanning process and can ensure that the best possible results are achieved.
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   • Cost savings: Transporting film to another facility for scanning can be costly and time-consuming, especially if the film is stored in a large or remote location. By performing the scanning in the same facility where the film is stored, film professionals can save on transportation costs and reduce the risk of damage to the film from unprofessional handling and a lack of environmental control.
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   • Improved workflow: Film scanning can be a multi-step process that requires careful handling and organization of the film. By performing the scanning in the same facility where the film is stored, film professionals can streamline the workflow and reduce the risk of errors or confusion.
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   • Accessibility: By performing the scanning in the same facility where the film is stored, film professionals can have immediate access to the original film if needed, which can be valuable in the event of any issues with the scanned digital copies.
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PRO-TEK can provide a full range of archival services in our customized facilities.

What factors should be considered regarding storage of digital copies on LTO (Linear Tape-Open) vs. storing those digital copies in the cloud?

Storing digital copies on LTO tape can be a cost-effective alternative or supplement to storing them in the cloud for several reasons:
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   • Cost of storage: LTO tapes have a much lower cost per terabyte of storage compared to cloud storage, especially for long-term archival purposes. This is because LTO tapes are a one-time purchase and LTO storage is inexpensive, whereas cloud storage requires ongoing significantly higher subscription fees.
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   • Data durability: LTO tapes have a long lifespan when stored in the proper environmental conditions. This makes them a more reliable option for long-term storage compared to cloud storage, which can be vulnerable to data loss due to hardware failures or network outages.
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   • Security: LTO tapes can be stored physically in a secure location, making them less vulnerable to cyber threats such as hacking or data breaches compared to cloud storage.
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   • Bandwidth: LTO tapes are faster and more efficient for data transfer compared to cloud storage, especially for large data transfers. This can be important for film professionals who need to quickly access large amounts of data for editing or post-production purposes.
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PRO-TEK’s digital media experts are ready to discuss the pros and cons of long-term storage on LTO and the cloud and can help design comprehensive preservation programs for digital media.

What are the temperature and humidity levels of the cold vaults?

All of our cold vaults for film storage are maintained at 40-45° F / 25% RH, which is the ANSII standard for long-term archival film storage.

What are the temperature and humidity levels of the acclimatized warehouses?

Our acclimatized warehouse spaces are maintained at 60-65° F/ 45% RH, which is the preferred environment for media storage.

Will everything I store be kept together?

Your items may not all be stored together. Items are typically placed into the cold vaults or warehouse locations at random, usually in order of delivery. This approach offers the important security benefit of keeping related items physically separated.

What kinds of containers does PRO-TEK Vaults accept for storage?

All film must be in 1000’,  2000’ or 3000’ metal or archival plastic cans. We can re-can film elements for you. Video or digital elements must be in their original cases.

Does PRO-TEK pick up and deliver assets?

PRO-TEK provides limited nitrate asset movement for clients on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for more information.

Does PRO-TEK Vaults offer nitrate film storage?

We do not store nitrate film, but we can guide you to the proper facilities and requirements, and we are certified in the handling and shipping of nitrate film in accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations.

Does PRO-TEK Vaults offer nitrate film transportation?

PRO-TEK Vaults packages the nitrate assets and completes the paperwork as we are certified to package and ship nitrate.  We then use a bonded shipper such as FedEx to provide distribution.