Exploring

Basic Concepts

On the microscopic level, paper consists of fibers bonded together.

In order to understand the deterioration mechanisms of specific paper-based formats, you need to be familiar with several basic concepts and processes. This section will address the difference between organic and inorganic materials, the types of chemical reactions that affect paper-based collections, and the process of making paper by hand and by machine. A basic understanding of these subjects will inform the discussions of deterioration mechanisms throughout this session.