To remedy this problem, Hawks is working with a second contractor who specializes in metal brackets for large objects. Other fossils are cracking because protective coatings applied years ago have shrunk. Many natural history museums have these concerns. The Paleobiology Department plans to share Hawks' findings with other museums. Hawks also has suggested removing the sand from the floor of various dinosaur displays.
Sand also absorbs dirt.
The most serious problem threatening the dinosaurs is pyrite oxidation, Hawks says. During summer, the rise in relative humidity speeds a destructive reaction called sulfide oxidation. Under humid conditions, tiny crystalline iron sulfide compounds in the fossils can undergo chemical change. Sulfuric acid, a toxic, corrosive acid, replaces the iron sulfides. Left unnoticed, the fossil will slowly decay to a white powder.