Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Molecules Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage

Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2024 | Viewed by 4776

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Yueer Yan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Institute for Preservation and Conservation of Chinese Ancient Books, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
Interests: paper cultural heritage; nondestructive testing; chemical degradation; preventive conservation

Prof. Dr. Yi Tang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
Interests: zeolite catalysis and nanomaterials for energy conversion and fine chemicals production
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Yuliang Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
Interests: macromolecular material; polymer physics; polymer chemical application

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

For millennia, paper has been the ultimate messenger of human wisdom, delivering information on the zeitgeist of each era across the boundary of time. However, paper undergoes severe deterioration along its lengthy life course, hence requiring intensive care to protect it. Chemists can play crucial roles in this mission, considering the interdisciplinary nature of the field of chemistry. The relationship between heritage science and applied chemistry is particularly close when facing a system as complex as paper heritage, where intrinsic and extrinsic factors are entangled to form convoluted degradation mechanisms. Currently, as the public’s awareness of cultural heritage protection increases, an ever-growing effort has been devoted to the preservation and conservation of paper-based historical heritage. Studies on aging mechanisms and lifetime evaluation have emerged, and a kaleidoscope of preventive/remedial conservation techniques has thrived on the basis of multiple functionalized materials. Nevertheless, there are always blanks to fill in, regarding finding suitable monitoring tools, specifying conservational environment parameters, and determining more feasible protection methods.

Therefore, this Special Issue aims to provide updates on the latest development in analysis and characterization techniques, new insight into degradation mechanisms, and freshly proposed conservation methods on the topic of paper-based cultural heritage chemistry.

Dr. Yueer Yan
Prof. Dr. Yi Tang
Prof. Dr. Yuliang Yang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

paper-based cultural heritages
analysis techniques
degradation mechanisms
conservation methods

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

16 pages, 4792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Cracking TEOS-Based Hybrid Materials as Reinforcement Agents for Paper Relics

by Mengruo Wu, Le Mu, Zhiyue Zhang, Xiangna Han, Hong Guo and Liuyang Han

Molecules 2024, 29(8), 1834; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29081834 - 17 Apr 2024

Viewed by 144

Abstract

Tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) is the most commonly used silicon-based reinforcement agent for conserving art relics due to its cost-effectiveness and commercial maturity. However, the resulting silica gel phase is prone to developing cracks as the gel shrinks during the sol–gel process, potentially causing severe damage to the objects being treated. In this study, dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTMS) was introduced into TEOS to minimize this shrinkage by adding elastic long chains to weaken the capillary forces. The gel formed from the DTMS/TEOS hybrid material was transparent and crack-free, featuring a dense microstructure without mesopores or micropores. It exhibited excellent thermal stability, with a glass transition temperature of up to 109.64 °C. Evaluation experiments were conducted on artificially aged, handmade bamboo paper. The TEOS-based hybrid material effectively combined with the paper fibers through the sol–gel process, polymerizing into a network structure that enveloped the paper surface or penetrated between the fibers. The surface of the treated paper displayed excellent hydrophobic properties, with no significant changes in appearance, color, or air permeability. The mechanical properties of the treated bamboo paper improved significantly, with longitudinal and transverse tensile strengths increasing by up to 36.63% and 44.25%, respectively. These research findings demonstrate the promising potential for the application of DTMS/TEOS hybrid materials in reinforcing paper relics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 6457 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Properties of FEVE Modified with Ag₂O/OH-MWCNTS Nanocomposites for Use as Adhesives for Wooden Heritage Objects

by Gele Teri, Cong Cheng, Kezhu Han, Dan Huang, Jing Li, Yujia Luo, Peng Fu and Yuhu Li

Molecules 2024, 29(6), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29061365 - 19 Mar 2024

Viewed by 563

Abstract

The durability of wooden heritage objects and sites can be affected by external environmental factors, leading to decay, cracking, and other forms of deterioration, which might ultimately result in significant and irreversible loss. In this study, a FEVE resin was modified with Ag₂O/OH-MWCNTS (MA), denoted as MAF, where three concentrations were prepared using in situ precipitation, and the resulting composite adhesive was characterized by a high viscosity and effective bacteriostatic properties, demonstrating a better viscosity and thermal stability, as well as antibacterial properties, than pure FEVE resin. The results show that MAF adhesives present good thermal stability, as evidenced by a lower mass loss rate following treatment at 800 °C compared to the pure FEVE resin. At a consistent shear rate, the viscosity of MAF demonstrates a notable increase with the proportion of MA, which is better than that of FEVE. This suggests that the nano-Ag₂O particles in MA act as physical crosslinking agents in FEVE, improving the viscosity of the composite adhesive MAF. The adhesion strength between MAF and wood exhibits a similar trend, with wooden samples showing higher shear strengths as the proportion of MA increases in comparison to FEVE. Simultaneously, the antibacterial effects of the MAF adhesive exceeded 1 mm for Trichoderma, Aspergillus niger, and white rot fungi. The antibacterial activity of the MAF adhesive exhibited a direct correlation with the concentration of Ag₂O/OH-MWCNTS, with the most pronounced inhibitory effect observed on Trichoderma. The MAF adhesive demonstrates promising prospects as an adhesive for wooden heritage artifacts, offering a novel approach for the rapid, environmentally friendly, and efficient development of composite adhesives with superior adhesive properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6872 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ionic Liquids as Reconditioning Agents for Paper Artifacts

by Catalin Croitoru and Ionut Claudiu Roata

Molecules 2024, 29(5), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29050963 - 22 Feb 2024

Viewed by 495

Abstract

This research explores the potential of ionic liquids (ILs) in restoring paper artifacts, particularly an aged book sample. Three distinct ILs—1-ethyl-3-propylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1-methyl-3-pentylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, and 1-methyl-3-heptylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide —both in their pure form and isopropanol mixtures, were examined for their specific consumption in conjunction with paper, with 1-ethyl-3-propylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide displaying the highest absorption. Notably, the methyl-3-heptylimidazolium ionic liquid displayed pronounced deacidification capabilities, elevating the paper pH close to a neutral 7. The treated paper exhibited significant color enhancements, particularly with 1-heptyl-3-methylimidazolium and 1-pentyl-3-methylimidazolium ILs, as evidenced by CIE-Lab* parameters. An exploration of ILs as potential UV stabilizers for paper unveiled promising outcomes, with 1-heptyl-3-methylimidazolium IL demonstrating minimal yellowing post-UV irradiation. FTIR spectra elucidated structural alterations, underscoring the efficacy of ILs in removing small-molecular additives and macromolecules. The study also addressed the preservation of inked artifacts during cleaning, showcasing ILs’ ability to solubilize iron gall ink, particularly the one with the 1-ethyl-3-propylimidazolium cation. While exercising caution for prolonged use on inked supports is still recommended, ILs are shown here to be valuable for cleaning ink-stained surfaces, establishing their effectiveness in paper restoration and cultural heritage preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Hemicellulose on the Wet Tensile Strength of Kozo Paper

by Zhiyou Han, Keiko Kida, Kyoko Saito Katsumata, Masaki Handa and Masamitsu Inaba

Molecules 2023, 28(19), 6996; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28196996 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 736

Abstract

Kozo paper, usu-mino-gami, is frequently used as the first back lining paper of hanging scrolls in order to support the main paper with a painting or a work of calligraphy on it. To dye it an appropriate color, paper is often treated with an alkali mordant solution. However, current kozo paper products have received such comments from conservators that wet tensile strength is weak and hard to handle. Therefore, improving the wet tensile strength of kozo paper is required. In previous papers, the effect of the sheet forming method, cooking condition, and parenchyma cell content between fibers on the wet tensile strength of kozo paper has been investigated. In this paper, the effect of glucuronoxylan, the main component of hardwood hemicellulose on the wet tensile strength of kozo paper was investigated. The wet tensile strength of kozo paper, when made in different cooking conditions, was evaluated using the Finch device. Glucuronoxylan content in fiber was analyzed using GC-FID. According to the results, it has been proved that glucuronoxylan content (with a xylan to glucan molar ratio of 4.43% to 5.16%) itself contributes to the wet tensile strength of the kozo sheet. Therefore, to increase the wet tensile strength of kozo paper, it is recommended to cook under milder conditions, thus retaining a higher amount of glucuronoxylan in the pulp. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Investigation into the Performance and Mechanisms of Soymilk-Sized Handmade Xuan Paper at Different Concentrations of Soymilk

by Chunfang Wu, Yangyang Liu, Yanxiao Hu, Ming Ding, Xiang Cui, Yixin Liu, Peng Liu, Hongbin Zhang, Yuliang Yang and Hongdong Zhang

Molecules 2023, 28(19), 6791; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28196791 - 25 Sep 2023

Viewed by 817

Abstract

Invaluable paper relics that embody a rich traditional culture have suffered damage, requiring urgent restoration. In this context, the utilization of soymilk as a sizing agent holds great significance and reverence. This study investigates the use of soymilk as a sizing agent for Xuan paper and evaluates its effects on various properties and the long-term behavior of the paper. The findings reveal that the application of soymilk as a sizing agent for Xuan paper imparts distinct properties, including hydrophobicity, improved mechanical properties, and unique chromaticity. These characteristics—arising from the papillae on the surface of the Xuan paper, the protein folding of the soy protein, and hydrogen-bonding interactions between the soy protein and paper fibers—play a crucial role in shaping the paper’s unique attributes. From a physicochemical perspective, the aging process leads to multiple changes in paper properties. These changes include acidification, which refers to a decrease in pH, as well as a decline in mechanical strength, an increase in chromaticity, and a decrease in the degree of polymerization (DP) of the paper. The Ekenstam equation is employed to predict the lifespan of the paper, showing longer lifespans for Sheng Xuan paper and a negative correlation between soymilk concentration and lifespan in soymilk-sized paper. Our work provides valuable insights for the preservation and maintenance of paper, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of using soymilk for surface sizing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 3930 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal, Rheological, Structural and Adhesive Properties of Wheat Starch Gels with Different Potassium Alum Contents

by Haibo Zhao, Hongbin Zhang, Qiang Xu, Hongdong Zhang and Yuliang Yang

Molecules 2023, 28(18), 6670; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28186670 - 17 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 969

Abstract

Wheat starch (WS) is a common adhesive material used in mounting of calligraphy and paintings. Potassium alum (PA) has indeed been used for many centuries to modify the physicochemical properties of starch. Thermal analysis revealed that the presence of PA led to an increase in the gelatinization temperature and enthalpy of the starch gels. The leached amylose and the swelling power of the starch gels exhibited a maximum at the ratio of 100:6.0 (WS:PA, w/w). The rheological properties of starch gels were consistent with changes in the swelling power of starch granules. SEM observations confirmed that the gel structure became more regular, and the holes grew larger with the addition of PA below the ratio of 100:6.0 (WS:PA, w/w). The short-range molecular order in the starch gels was enhanced by the addition of PA, confirmed by FT-IR analysis. Mechanical experiments demonstrated that the binding strength of the starch gels increased with higher PA concentrations and decreased significantly after the aging process. TGA results revealed that PA promoted the acid degradation of starch molecules. This study provides a detailed guide for the preparation of starch-based adhesive and its applications in paper conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Chemical Conservation of Paper-Based Cultural Heritage

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (6 papers)

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI