"It would be a colossal disaster for the museum," said Francis, the curator of the mineralogical museum. "It would set us back a generation."
The Fogg uses a sophisticated sprinkler system along with sprinkler substitutes, according to Trifiro.
Haylon is an effective substance in air-tight areas, but its use has been outlawed because it causes damage to the ozone. Trifiro said FM-200 is also a good substitutes. Still, water remains the safest alternative.
Curators admit there are many options which would better secure the University's collections. But sources said museum curators are left in a vulnerable position.
They are unable to influence decisions in the University because of the lack of coordination of the museum council and their non-tenured jobs.
And by its own admission, the University faculty has failed to pick up the slack.