Other institutions were also surveyed as to their experience and insight. These references are kept in the Conservation Studio library. The State Library has experience in identifying nitrate and cellulose acetate sheet film, and prioritising it for duplication based on its stage of deterioration. The badly deteriorated material has been sent off site for cool storage until it can be duplicated. All potential new acquisitions of flexible based negatives are tested to identify acetate and its condition, which will have some bearing on whether it is to be acquired.
Examination includes edge printing, dating information and notch codes and physical characteristics.
Tests commonly used are the Diphenylamine, Float Test, Burn Test the IPI A-D Strips.