Film fungus

Cinematographic film has a layer of gelatin on its surface. This emulsion layer is where the image is formed but also provides ideal food for fungi like Aspergillus and Penicillium.

If the fungus forms a layer of mould on a film it produces enzymes which allow it to use the film as food and to grow. . .

While all film is potentially at risk, it is film that has been stored in damp conditions that is most likely to become infected in this way. . .

Mark Bodner is responsible for conservation and preservation of the collections at the North West Film Archive . . .

"It's getting worse. It's a kind of newish thing. I've been here (NWFA) for 23 years. This has really only taken up over the last eight to ten years. What might have been perfect six years ago has now been affected by mould."

Posted by David on September 8, 2010 11:37 AM