Would the sodium bicarbonate react with acids in the air or would it effectively only neutralize the one spot where it is? If the air does not circulate in the drawer a fine layer of acid may be deposited everywhere. Allen Aigen [log in to unmask] -- [log in to unmask] wrote: Chris, Birch is a wood that is relatively non-acidic so it would be a safer choice than oak (highly acidic). Allowing for ventilation would help prevent the buildup of volatile organic compounds such as formic and acetic acids. The silica gel would help absorb excess moisture thereby lessening the risk of Bynesian Decay. Don't forget that silica gel can become "saturated" with water and needs to be replaced or regenerated periodically. Not sure where the sodium bicarbonate comes into play except possibly as a deodorizer. Sounds like you have a nice set-up. > I have watched for signs of Bynes on the specimens in my several birch > cabinets, but after 14 years I have yet to see any problems. Perhaps it > has helped that each drawer allows for some ventilation? Each drawer also > contains packets of silicon dioxide and a small container of baking > soda...opinions on this? > > Chris Burgoyne, lurker Regards, Charlie ................................................. Research Associate - Section of Mollusks Carnegie Museum of Natural History Pittsburgh, PA, USA Assistant Professor - Family Medicine Fellow-American Academy of Family Practice Fellow-Academy of Wilderness Medicine ---------------------------------------------------------------------- [log in to unmask] - a forum for informal discussions on molluscs To leave this list, click on the following web link: http://listserv.uga.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=conch-l&A=1 Type your email address and name in the appropriate box and click leave the list. ----------------------------------------------------------------------