I read about "flame" tests, but I wanted to see how well the banknotes preserved over time and if the sealed holders were safe for long term storage.
The test you read about is called a "Beilstein Test" which can be seen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDTcQArIiMU or you can read about the test here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beilstein_testTo summarize: you would heat up a copper wire, then dip it on the plastic holder (for a dab of the plastic), then hold the wire (plus plastic) over an open flame to heat it up. Should the flame turn green- means you have a holder with PVC and which would eventually react to the paper (the holder has PVC, a mild acid which can cause damage to the note over time). If the flame remains unchanged than there is no reaction/no problems with your banknote holder. (BTW:
if you carry out the test be sure to do it in an open area- and don't breath in the fumes made by the burnt plastic as they can be toxic)
Susan Maltby (a conservator) gave an excellent presentation on preserving a coin or paper money collection at last year's RCNA convention in Mississauga. If she is giving a workshop, I highly recommend you (& CPMF members) to attend as it was fun to learn & participate. She also noted that most plastics have been made PVC free for the last 5-10 years.
Your video was smoothly shot, but on a personal note, I always hate to see a TPG holder cut into (esp BCS as they seal/preserve the note in a PVC-free mylar sleeve). For details about BCS holders see:
https://www.banknotecertification.com/ourholder.php
