R. Giorgi, L. Dei, Claudius Vinicius Schettino
Sep 1, 2002
Citations
1
Influential Citations
17
Citations
Journal
Studies in Conservation
Abstract
Abstract Experimental results concerning the application of an innovative methodology for paper deacidification are reported. The method is based on stable calcium hydroxide colloidal dispersions in alcoholic media, particularly propan-1-ol and propan-2-ol. Deacidification processes are usually performed using alkaline earth hydroxides and bicarbonates in aqueous media, while some magnesium compounds are also effective as deacidifying agents in nonaqueous media. Calcium hydroxide particles have never previously been applied in nonaqueous media. They possess sub-micrometre sizes, play an alkaline-buffering role, and ensure high physicochemical compatibility with the substrate. Compared with many other solvents, propan-2-ol has low toxicity, is volatile, has low surface tension, and is environmentally friendly. These properties make the dispersion very attractive for various procedures applied to paper, such as spraying, immersion and brushing. Deacidification effects on acidic yellowed paper samples made from rags (fourteenth and nineteenth century) and woodpulp (twentieth century) were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) and pH measurements were carried out before and after the treatments, and the results obtained were successful.