Arhivski vjesnik, Vol. 54 No. 1, 2011.
Review article
PREVENTING DAMAGES ON LEATHER BINDINGS CAUSED BY AIR POLLUTION
Igor Kozjak
; Hrvatski državni arhiv
Abstract
Sun light, temperature, humidity, insects, rodents, and air pollution are the most common causes of damage to leather used in restoration. Air polluted by a variety of airborne particles and gases has a major impact on the degradation of leather, paper and other organic materials. Airborne particles such as heavy metals are extremely abrasive and can greatly damage the surface of organic material. Gases, whether acid or oxidizing may accelerate the decomposition of organic material or hasten the aging process. Among the most harmful gases, sulfur and nitrogen dioxide are included as acid gases and ozone as an oxidizing gas. Red rot is one type of leather degradation caused by sulfuric acid, indirectly by sulfur dioxide. It is an irreversible degradation of leather that begins with converting the skin's surface to dust, while at later stage leads to the appearance of irritant sour smell and the complete disintegration of the leather. It cannot be stopped but only slowed down with various coatings and storing books infected by red-rot in protective acid-free boxes. The only way to prevent effects of air pollution in the Archives is to install a good ventilation system and molecular filtration in storages.
Keywords
air pollution; airborne particles; gases; sulfur dioxide; nitrogen dioxide; ozone; acidic degradation; ventilation; molecular filtration
Hrčak ID:
90523
URI
Publication date:
19.11.2011.
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