Oddy Testing and Conservation‑Led Display Case Design
What Is Oddy Testing?
Oddy Testing is a well‑established conservation science method used by museums, galleries, and heritage institutions to assess whether materials are safe for use in enclosed display environments. Developed at the British Museum by conservation scientist Andrew Oddy, the test identifies materials that may off‑gas harmful pollutants capable of causing corrosion, tarnishing, or long‑term degradation of sensitive objects.
The test exposes three metal coupons—typically silver, copper, and lead—to a material sample in a sealed, heated environment with moisture present. After a fixed period, conservators examine the metals for signs of corrosion or chemical reaction. The results indicate whether a material is:
- Suitable (Pass) – No observable corrosion
- Marginal (Use with caution) – Minor reaction under accelerated conditions
- Unsuitable (Fail) – Active corrosion or chemical attack
Oddy Testing is widely recognised as a benchmark for preventive conservation and is referenced in international museum standards and conservation guidelines.
Why Oddy Testing Matters for Display Cases
Display cases are, by design, enclosed micro‑environments. While this protects objects from dust, handling, and external pollutants, it also means that any harmful substances released by construction materials can accumulate over time.
Common risks include:
- Corrosion of metals such as silver, bronze, iron, and lead
- Degradation of organic materials including paper, textiles, leather, and wood
- Discolouration, embrittlement, or surface changes caused by acidic or sulphur‑containing compounds
Without rigorous material selection, even a visually robust display case can unintentionally accelerate object deterioration. Oddy Testing provides evidence‑based assurance that materials used within a case—whether structural, decorative, or functional—will not compromise the long‑term preservation of the objects displayed.
Materials Commonly Subject to Oddy Testing
In the context of glass display cases, Oddy Testing is particularly relevant to:
- Sealants, adhesives, and silicones
- Paints, coatings, and powder finishes
- Gaskets, foams, and rubber components
- Internal panels, plinth materials, and surface finishes
- Lighting housings, fixings, and cable insulation
Even materials considered inert in open environments can behave very differently once sealed inside a display case.
How Oddy Testing Influences Display Case Design
At Access Displays, Oddy Testing is not treated as an afterthought—it is embedded into the design and specification process.
1. Material Selection from the Outset
Design decisions are informed by a proven palette of materials with known Oddy Test performance. This reduces risk, avoids late‑stage substitutions, and ensures conservation compatibility from concept through to installation.
2. Reduced Reliance on Reactive Mitigation
Rather than compensating for unsuitable materials with scavengers or absorbents, intrinsically safe materials are prioritised. This results in more stable internal environments and lower long‑term maintenance requirements.
3. Integrated Conservation Engineering
Oddy Test results directly influence:
- Joint and fixing strategies
- Seal design and air‑tightness levels
- Surface finishes and coatings
- Selection of internal fittings, mounts, and supports
This integrated approach ensures conservation performance is engineered into the display case, not retrofitted later.
