Experimental and theoretical study of ancient paper degradation

Paper degradation is strongly related to the ancient production techniques and to the environmental conditions in which artefacts are kept. An advanced knowledge of the microscopic characteristics of paper materials and an in-depth understanding of their degradation processes are essential to the development of conservation strategies. Due to the several variables involved, and in order to discriminate among them, an innovative method based on a multidisciplinary statistical approach is used in this work. This research project is carried out using several experimental techniques (XRF, AFM and optical spectroscopy) and a theoretical model to simulate cellulose and its oxidized forms, based on quantum mechanics principles. As cultural heritage is very important and unique, the techniques here implemented are non-destructive and non-invasive. Furthermore, an additional goal of this thesis is the switch off from a diagnostic to a prognostic approach for cultural heritage studies. The present dissertation is then organized in four chapters. In the first chapter, an overview about paper, cellulose and the deterioration processes, including a brief but fundamental historical summary, is presented. In the second chapter, the experimental techniques are described. In the third chapter the results are shown and discussed. Finally, in the last chapter the statistical analysis developed to quantify paper degradation is presented. The essential aim of this work is to combine synergy between experiment and theoretical data, in a scientific and humanistic approach to explain ancient paper properties for preserving our unique and invaluable cultural heritage.