Early detection of enzymatic attack on paper by NMR relaxometry, EPR spectroscopy and X-Ray powder spectra

Fungal growth on paper is one among the causes responsible for paper deterioration in archives and libraries. The study of paper deterioration is a complex phenomenon in particular when it is due to the biotic action of fungi and bacteria. One of the major problems is the early detection of fungal activity and, following an enzymatic attack, the evaluation of actual permanent damage on different types of paper. In this report we present a combined study based on NMR relaxometry, EPR (Electron Paramagnetic Resonance) spectroscopy, X-Ray powder spectra and chemical analysis. These methods altogether indicate that, in the case of an enzymatic attack by endo glucanase, it is the amorphous fraction of paper to be attacked. In particular, NMR relaxometry is able to reveal extremely mild enzymatic attacks, not observable with any other method.