This research addressed the problem of fire-damaged manuscripts and printed books in libraries and archives by developing an innovative green chemistry conservation treatment for strengthening burnt paper. The production of experimental burnt paper samples was based on the characterization of historical papers burnt in blazes during the second World War. This led to the development of a nanocomposite formulation that uses nanocelluloses and polysiloxane polymers to treat the charred areas by spraying. The burnt paper samples were reinforced, as measured by a specifically designed folding test. Their tendency to fragmentation was thereby improved and their visual aspect was not modified. The new treatment will enable to significantly improve the conservation condition of thousands of fire-damaged documents and books of our cultural heritage, allowing future access to the texts and their reproduction for the benefit of scholars at large.
- Soutenance le 8 juillet 2022 à 14h à l'Auditorum de la GGE.
- Thèse dirigée par Anne-Laurence Dupont (CRCC - MNHN) et Alfonso Zoleo (University Padova)