archival plastics
Some plastics could be called "archival," if they are kept away from light. Nearly all plastic resins degrade under the influence of U.V. radiation, but some have better properties - related to photographic materials than others.
PVC (the stuff that smells like shower curtains) is very unstable and the smell comes from the plasticizer that slowly migrates to the surface. PVC should be kept far away from photos, as the plasticizer softens and attacks the emulsion. PVC also releases chlorine, which in combination with humidity forms hydrochloric acid and gives photos that "acid wash" look.
I would suggest staying away from any film that "clings." Self-adhesive films are mixtures of resins, in which one resin migrates to the surface and has tacking characteristics. If you´ve spend a lot of time making and processing an image, you certainly don´t want anything sticking to it.
PVC bottles can be used for short term storage of photochemicals, but they are not the best choice.
The poliolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene) are "archival." For negative or slide storage, polypropylene has superior optical properties compared to polyethylene (PE is milky and PP can be clarified). High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Polypropylene (PP) bottles can be used to store photochemicals. PP bottles are a better choice, as their clarity allows for quality control, while hazy PE bottles might leave particles undetected.
PET bottles, the material used for most carbonated beverages should only be used as short-term storage solutions. They tend to deform with heat and certain solvents.
Your best choice are Polycarbonate (PC) containers. PC has excellent heat, chemical and structural stability and is crystal clear. There are several manufacturers that produce amber-colored bottles which are great for storing photosensitive liquids.
