An alternative method of fumigation using an inert atmosphere, nitrogen, has been investigated for eliminating insect infestations in museums and archival collections. The lethal effect of nitrogen as anoxant for insects has been determined under controlled temperature and relative humidity conditions using three systems: plastic bags of low permeability; a traditional fumigation vacuum chamber; and an experimental metallic chamber. In all cases analyzed, nitrogen was found an effective method for eradicating common fauna such as the furniture beetle, <i>Anobium punctatum</i> from cellulosic materials. The efficacy of the system is being analyzed in a pilot project which includes the treatment of a large collection of archival materials infested by members of the beetle order, Coleoptera. This inexpensive method is safe and reduces chemical alteration in the treated objects.