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The Chemistry of Paper Preservation Part 3. The Strengthening of Paper

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Henry A. Carter

Augustana University College, Camrose, AB, Canada T4V 3Z5

J. Chem. Educ., 1996, 73 (12), p 1160

DOI: 10.1021/ed073p1160

Publication Date (Web): December 1, 1996

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

The following study describes the parylene and graft copolymerization processes that have been developed to strengthen fragile or brittle paper artifacts. Theparylene process involves vaporizing di-para-xylylene at 150^o - 250 ^oC and splitting the dimeric parylene gas at 650^o - 690 ^oC to mono-para-xylylene. The monomer vapor collides with the surface of the paper sample at room temperature and penetrates the cellulose fibers. Polymerization of the monomeric units to poly- para-xylylenes then occurs with the deposition of a thin uniform film. This parylene film forms mechanical links with broken fibers and strengthening occurs. The graft copolymerization (British Library) method involves treating papers with gaseous monomeric ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate, and initiating copolymerization by irradiating the papers with low intensity gamma rays. Webs of long-chained polymers are deposited on and between the cellulose fibers thereby strengthening the papers. The chemistry as well as modifications to both processes are discussed.

Keywords (Audience):

Upper-Division Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Organic Chemistry

Keywords (Subject):

Aromatic Compounds

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

The Chemistry of Paper Preservation. Part 5. Permanent Paper
Henry A. Carter
Journal of Chemical Education2007 84 (12), 1937
- The Chemistry of Paper Preservation. Part 5. Permanent Paper
  Henry A. Carter
  Journal of Chemical Education2007 84 (12), 1937
  The acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose accounts for the deterioration of paper in library books and other written records. To combat this threat to our written heritage, new permanent papers have been developed that are relatively chemically stable ...
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