Accelerated Aging of Paper: Can it Really Foretell the Permanence of Paper
Inadequacy of Single Sheet Accelerated Aging Methods
We believe we have presented enough evidence here from our laboratories and from other workers to show that accelerated aging methods which facilitate the volatilization of degradation products by exposing single sheets to a constant current of air and moisture may be missing an important element of the manner in which paper ages within a mass of paper that is bound into a book, or housed in a closed container. When we open an old book, we would be surprised if it did not have a characteristic smell. Yet the accelerated aging methods we have practiced thus far, never develop a noticeable odor. Our accelerated aging methods have been missing an essential element of the aging process. Therefore, it is not surprising that we find none of them really satisfactory.
Table of Contents - Introduction - Status of Accelerated Aging of Paper - Research in Accelerated Aging of Paper - Comparison of Accelerated Aging of Paper in Stacks and Sheets - Aging of Paper Sealed within Polyester Film - Inadequacy of Single Sheet Accelerated Aging Methods - Accelerated Aging within Sealed Enclosures - Comparison of Accelerated Aging Methods - Accelerated Aging under Light -Measurement of Rates of Degradation - Conclusion - References - Supporting Documents