An Analysis of the Aging of Paper: Possible Reactions and their Effects on Measurable Properties

Various reactions that cellulose can undergo are reviewed in relation to their bearing on the aging of paper. The principal reactions of cellulose are hydrolysis, oxidation, crosslinking, change in lateral order in the bonding area, and, during accelerated aging, thermal decomposition. The effects these various reactions might have on tests that are available for evaluating changes that occur during the aging of paper are reviewed. Some special examples of these reactions that occur during natural aging, because of special composition characteristics of the paper, are discussed. Suggestions are made concerning most sensitive tests for use in detecting changes in paper and tests, regardless of sensitivity, available for determining what happens during aging. Some general guidelines regarding specifications for permanent record papers are discussed. -- AATA