Characterization of Foxing Stains on Eighteenth Century Books

Foxing is a form of chromatic alteration of paper which appears as spotty or diffuse yellowish, brownish, reddish or blackish areas. Although the nature of foxing stains is not fully understood, microorganisms and metallic impurities (iron, copper, etc.) in paper have been considered the main causes of foxing formation. This paper deals with the application of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental analysis for the presence of metals and/or microorganisms in foxing spots, found in eighteenth century books. The selected spots are also examined in normal and UV light to determine the relationship between the visual appearance of the paper and its chemical composition. The conservation methods suitable for the removing of foxing stains and prevention of their recurrence are discussed