engleski

The Influence of Hydrothermal and UV Treatment on Properties of Leather Used in Book Conservation

Ageing and degradation, which occur as a result of various factors affecting leather and other materials used in conservation of archival material, are of great importance. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of hydrothermal and UV ageing properties of two types of leather that are used in book conservation. In order to gain an insight into the changes of properties caused by the hydrothermal and UV treatment, the samples were artificially aged under the influence of humidty, heat and UV light (254 nm) over a long period of time. The structural changes of leather upon degradation were analyzed by the FTIR spectroscopy, whereas the analysis of the surface characteristics were carried out by contact angle measurements. The morphological changes were observed by using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The structural changes depending on the type and duration of treatment have been confirmed by FTIR spectra analysis and by changes of the surface characteristics. The morphological study confirmed the differences in the structure of each type of leather, as well as the changes caused by the hydrothermal and UV treatment.

leather; degradation; ageing; UV ageing; hydrothermal treatment

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