Damage caused by black inks to the chemical properties of archaeological papyrus – analytical study

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the nature of archaeological papyrus damage and monitoring the mechanics of damage caused by black inks to the chemical properties of ancient papyrus.

Design/methodology/approach

This study the papyrus surface with a digital microscopy “USB,” examination and analyzing by “Scanning Electron Microscope,” characterization of black ink used in writing the ancient papyrus using “Scanning Electron Microscopy” with (EDX). Detection of changes in the chemical bonds of ancient papyrus samples by “Fourier transform infrared” FTIR.

Findings

The result confirmed that SEM examination showed the organization of the parenchyma cells that make up papyrus tissue. Characteristic waveform appears, it indicates the ancient Egyptian manufacturer’s use of the (Strips Method) in the process of manufacturing the archaeological papyrus. Also, the appearance of (Over Lapping) stacking of papyrus slides. EDX analysis showed that the black ink used to write the papyrus was (Carbon Ink). High oxygen content in the papyrus sample analysis indicates deterioration of the cellulose fibers. FTIR spectrum showed that Arabic gum is the bonding material for carbon ink particles, it also showed that archaeological papyrus suffers from hydrolysis due to exposure of papyrus fibers to high moisture content or direct water, resulting in smudge, bleeding and fading of carbon ink on the archaeological papyrus support.

Originality/value

The study is archaeological papyrus with black ink scripts from the excavation of the Qasr I brim.

Citation

Mazen, B.S.M., Ismail, B.M., Ali Hassan, R.R. and Ali, M. (2023), "Damage caused by black inks to the chemical properties of archaeological papyrus – analytical study", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 52 No. 1, pp. 73-81. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-08-2021-0088