NMR Relaxometry and IR Thermography to Study Ancient Cotton Paper Bookbinding

Abstract

Defects related to degradation were observed in an ancient book paperboard cover through nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry and infrared thermography. Data collected with this combined method allowed identifying areas with moisture content and thermal diffusivity anomalies within the front board, corresponding to the different conservation status of the cellulose-based material. Non-destructive testing analytical procedures provide comprehensive knowledge for preserving precious library archives.

Keywords

• 2D ¹H-NMR relaxometry
• unilateral NMR
• infrared thermography
• cellulose
• non-destructive testing
• cultural heritage