The effect of particulate matter on paper degradation

Abstract

Background: In this work we explore the chemical effects of particulate matter on paper. We exposed paper made of pure cellulose to the environment in different locations in central London, outdoors (in sheltered conditions) and indoors, for a period of up to 6 months. We monitored particulate matter (PM) deposition by counting the particles deposited every month with a scanning electron microscope. We analysed elemental composition of the deposited particles using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. After accelerated degradation of the exposed samples, we determined the degree of polymerisation using viscometry. Results:We observed higher deposition rates and higher metal concentration outdoors than indoors. Elemental analysis of the deposited particles revealed the presence of some transition metals (Fe, Cu, Cr) that can contribute to the degradation of cellulose fibres through the Fenton reaction. By comparing the degree of polymerisation of protected, unprotected and unexposed samples we could determine the relative contribution of PM deposition on the increase of the degradation rate. We found that the surface concentration of iron correlates with the reduction in the degree of polymerisation of the exposed paper. Conclusions:The results suggest that the presence of Fenton metals in PM has a significant effect on the acceleration of the degradation of cellulose. However, we estimate that this will unlikely occur at the levels of area coverage by PM that are typically avoided in indoor heritage through preventive maintenance and cleaning.

Conservation risks for paper collections induced by the microclimate in the repository of the Alessandrina Library in Rome (Italy)

“…The effect of pollutants on historic paper deterioration is generally negligible [16]. However, dust particles and particulate matter may increase paper vulnerability to deterioration [17,18].…”

The Effect of Pollutant Gases on Surfactant Migration in Acrylic Emulsion Films: A Comparative Study and Preliminary Evaluation of Surface Cleaning

“…However, it is important to consider that other variables can also limit the cleaning effect of acrylic works. One of these is the particulate matter (PM), which is a risk for painted surfaces both because its deteriorating effect changes according to the art material (being composed of a mixture of solid and liquid particles suspended in the air), and because its accumulation on surfaces can alter the morphology of the material and compromise the cleaning operations favoring surface abrasion [21]. Another factor that can affect both degradation processes and cleaning practices is the growth of microorganisms-including algae, fungi, bacteria and even lichen-on painted surfaces [22].…”

Indoor Air Quality Assessment at the Library of the National Observatory of Athens, Greece

“…NO x and O 3 in humid environments enhance the SO 2 uptake (Johansson and Lennholm, 2000;, catalyzing thus the hydrolysis reactions. Additionally, acidic or alkaline particulate matter (PM) favors the discoloration processes through deposition (Grau-Bové et al, 2016).…”