The Cayuga Museum of History & Art is shining a light on an intriguing aspect of research conducted by the Case Research Lab, particularly focusing on the work of inventor Ted Case. While renowned for his advancements in sound film technology, Case was also engaged in innovative studies using photoelectric cells. This lesser-known research has significant implications for the textile industry, especially in understanding dye fading.
On November 9, 1925, the Case Research Lab received a pivotal report from the Department of Commerce. This report detailed the department’s use of one of Case’s photoelectric cells to measure the rate of sunlight fading in dyed fabrics. The collaboration arose after a 1923 article in the American Dyestuff Reporter proposed that dye fading could be quantified by measuring the foot-candle hours of light exposure. The article suggested that the same quantity of light energy would yield similar fading results, irrespective of daily or seasonal variations in light intensity.
Recognizing the potential of this research, the Research Committee of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, along with the Bureau of Standards, reached out to Case for collaboration. This partnership aimed to establish a more precise understanding of how light affects dye stability, leading to practical applications in the textile industry.
At the Cayuga Museum, Karyn Radcliffe, the director of collections, emphasizes the importance of this research in the context of textile preservation. The insights gained from this study not only advanced scientific understanding but also had far-reaching implications for textile manufacturing and quality control.
The museum, located at 203 Genesee St., Auburn, continues to celebrate the legacy of Ted Case and his contributions to both film and textile research. For more information about the museum and its exhibitions, interested individuals can contact the museum at (315) 253-8051 or visit their website at cayugamuseum.org.
As the Cayuga Museum delves into the archives of the Case Research Lab, it highlights how interdisciplinary research can lead to significant advancements in various fields. Ted Case’s work serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit that characterizes scientific inquiry, bridging the gap between technology and practical applications in everyday life.
