In Situ Surface Modification of Paper-Based Relics with Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Treatment for Preservation Purposes

Paper-based relics, which are an important part of cultural heritage worldwide, are at risk of imminent damage from various environmental sources. To protect them, the atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) precursor has been explored on paper-based relics in situ. The macro and micro images taken during this process suggest that the in situ plasma treatment does not change the macro morphology and the micro structure of the treated paper-based relic samples. On the other hand, plasma treatment causes the polymerization of the HMDSO which then produces nanoparticles deposited onto the paper-based relics. These nanoparticles provide good waterproof properties with large static water contact angles and smaller rolling angles, which protect the paper-based relics from water penetration. Moreover, since the nanoparticles are deposited onto the fibers, waterproof fastness is ensured. Also, the examined mechanical properties of the treated and untreated paper-based relics indicate that the atmospheric pressure plasma treatment does not affect the strength of the paper very much. The results in this study show that atmospheric pressure plasma treatment with the use of HMDSO precursor is a good method to preserve paper-based relics.