|
Post by joee30 on Jun 16, 2017 23:54:26 GMT -8
Any western Catocala from my state would be the "holy grail". Got one last year.
|
|
|
Post by jonathan on Jun 20, 2017 4:00:33 GMT -8
Jonathan, as you know the colors in most Lepidoptera are created largely by organic pigments called melanins. These pigments are chemical based and and vary so hence we have our various "shades" of each color. Over time, these melanins breakdown or are in the very-least degraded somewhat so that specimens overall appearance lacks the "pop" they may have once had. In most cases, at best I would say most things are only slightly duller in color appearance overall. I would not say faded as that implies some exposure to light which truely breaks-up or destroyes the melanins present. Examples of color change I've noticed over time are some of the following: light yellows may become darker yellows, oranges may become darker orange (or even slightly reddish), vivid black colors as well as rich brown coloration may take on a more "matte" appearance, and so on.... Another thing to keep in mind is that their are other factors present which may also play some effect on the melanins present (over time). You may have not thought of these but, here we go: #1. Fumigants (naphthalene, paradichlorobenzene, and no-pest strips which are sometimes cut into small squares by some collectors), #2. Adhesives which may be present such as that which bonds foam in unit trays or a foam sheet to the bottom of a drawer or that which is used to bond paper to cork as is used in older style drawers. The "off-gassing" of the chemical adhesive will always be there in a closed unit like a drawer. #3 Foam Off-gassing. The very foam we use in our various boxes and drawers does indeed have a chemical composition. Those chemicals present have an odor and likewise off-gas. In short, slight color change is inevitable with time but, with proper care and attention your collection will afford you a lifetime of fond memories. Perhaps, when you are aged it may find a new home at a museum or in another collector's collection where it too will be enjoyed and appreciated for a great many years ! Thanks a lot for your detailed reply :-) Then the plastazote plays a role too.
|
|
leptraps
Banned
Enter your message here...
Posts: 2,397
|
Post by leptraps on Jun 21, 2017 20:42:52 GMT -8
Off gassing of glue used to secure foams in drawers and unit trays is basically natural. Once it cures out, usually in 48 hours, does not "Off Gas"
When I make drawers with foam bottoms, I use a water base glue the cures in 8 hours. The same glue used to seal cardboard food containers.
Off gassing. I love that expression. Some of you are very good at that!
|
|