Classifying ink deterioration via databases
Libraries, archives and museums encounter the problem of preserving numerous historical documents that are in danger of corrosion caused by the gall ink they contain. The effects of preventive antioxidants were examined with the use of state-of-the-art experimental and analytical techniques. Better conservation practices were developed, which enabled preservation and undistributed access to the several artefacts that are in danger of ink corrosion. The knowledge of ink compositions, oxidation mechanisms and analytical methodology was also increased. Databases in MS Access and Filemaker Pro were then developed for the visual assessment and documentation of the corrosion of historical documents and drawings caused by aggressive inks. The databases include scanned images along with an elaborate description by conservators. The objects are classified into four damage categories. The databases can allow conservators to evaluate the ink corroded documents and drawings in a reliable manner. Furthermore they can be used as a training aid via CD-Rom for workshops in institutions worldwide.