Physicochemical Characterization Of Ancient Paper And Parchment With Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Abstract

Historical paper and parchment are widely investigated in order to comprehend mechanisms of degradation and to plan proper conservation interventions. NMR spectroscopy is a powerful tool that allows to the changes occurring during the degradation process and to get information on the state of conservation. In this work a Cross Polarization Magic Angle Spinning Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (13C{1H} CP MAS NMR) study of a 16th century book is reported. The physicochemical characterization of paper samples collected from the book was performed through the evaluation of intensity and the changes in line width of signals in the spectra. 13C{1H} CP MAS NMR spectra of paper samples collected from the book, allowed us to obtain information on its state of conservation. Information on the extent of oxidative and hydrolysis degradation have been achieved through the evaluation of the crystalline/amorphous ratio, the presence of emicellulose, the presence of cellulose oligomers and of non-cellulosic compounds such as lignine or organic additives. This technique also provided information on the state of degradation of two parchment samples collected from the cover of the book.