The article presents a study, which characterized the ink components in ancient manuscripts by FTIR spectroscopy. The destructive mechanism of the inks can be influenced and exacerbated by various characteristics and processes. These include the characteristics of the paper, the composition of the ink, environmental conditions and chemical reactions with other molecules. An understanding of the reaction mechanisms of the components of the original ink is crucial for an understanding of the damage caused to paper and parchment. Characterization of these components can help to describe these mechanisms and consequently avoid degradation.
The article presents information on the effect of simmering on the chemical and mechanical properties of paper. Iron gall ink corrosion of paper threatens to destroy a large portion of historic manuscripts, records and drawings globally. A great deal of effort has been and continues to be, invested in studying and understanding the causes and pathways of iron gall ink corrosion of paper, and the efficacy of various conservation treatments. Among the many traditional treatments, "boiling paper" as a treatment for corroded iron gall ink documents has been used for more than 30 years 68.
This article describes the influence of Gum Arabic on iron gall ink corrosion. Iron-gall ink corrosion of paper is one of the greatest threats for the graphic heritage and affects a significant number of ancient manuscripts, as iron-gall inks were commonly in use until the beginning of the twentieth century. Numerous recipes are cited in the literature. Most of them include the following basic ingredients: iron sulphate, gallnut extracts and a binder, which makes the ink texture more suitable for writing. Ink corrosion is considered to be the result of two major degradation processes: acid-catalyzed hydrolysis and iron(II)-catalyzed oxidation of cellulose, contributing to a loss in the mechanical properties of paper.