Controlled Atmosphere Technology (CAT)

Controlled Atmosphere Technology (CAT) is a safe, effective and advanced fumigation technique, which is particularly useful for the control of insects found in sensitive, unique or high-value objects. The shape of the enclosure is customized to suit the treated objects. The material of the enclosure or “bubble”, is a specialized film which restricts the movement of gas across the film.

Objects or commodities are sealed within a specialist polymer membrane bubble – the controlled atmosphere – with extracted air replaced with regulated concentrations of Nitrogen or Carbon Dioxide gas. This treatment effectively eliminates all life stages of pest insects and leaves no harmful residues on objects. This delicate process can take up to several weeks to effective completion.

• Inert gases used in the controlled atmosphere make it suitable to treat fragile objects vulnerable to degradation and residue contamination.
• Gases are also used to treat precious metals, copper, brass and silks.
• Nitrogen in particular is used with objects such as paintings to avoid changes in colour pigments due to fluctuations in humidity.

CAT, as used in Singapore, is the preferred technique amongst the museum community for the treatment of valuable historical artefacts. Our fumigators are licensed professionals backed with extensive experience to conduct fumigation services in effective and safe manner.

The below items can all benefit from the CAT treatment:

• Museum artefacts
• Historical clothing
• Tapestries
• Antiquities
• Fragile textiles
• Paintings
• Books
• Antique furniture