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Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Spectroscopic Identification of Dispersant/Particle Bonding Mechanisms in Functional Inks
Published on: May 8, 2015
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Tracking Color Shift in Ballpoint Pen Ink Using Photoshop Assisted Spectroscopy: A Nondestructive Technique Developed
The American Archivist
|September 3, 2016
Summary
Ballpoint pen inks degrade over time, causing color shifts in historical documents. A new method, Photoshop Assisted Spectroscopy, noninvasively detects this aging in digitized records, aiding preservation efforts.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Document Conservation
- Digital Imaging
Background:
- Ballpoint pen inks contain light-sensitive dyes.
- Degradation of these inks poses challenges for preserving historical documents.
- Collection custodians and paper conservators require methods to assess ink aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemistry and aging of ballpoint pen ink.
- To develop a noninvasive method for detecting ballpoint pen ink aging.
- To provide guidance for preserving historical documents containing ballpoint pen ink.
Main Methods:
- A multiphase project was conducted by conservation staff at the National Library of Medicine (NLM).
- The study examined ballpoint pen ink aging across various storage environments.
- A novel technique, Photoshop Assisted Spectroscopy, was developed for digitized materials.
Main Results:
- Ballpoint pen ink color shift can be detected noninvasively using image editing software.
- Photoshop Assisted Spectroscopy provides a quantifiable method to assess ink degradation.
- The study identified optimal storage conditions for documents with ballpoint pen ink.
Conclusions:
- Photoshop Assisted Spectroscopy is an effective tool for detecting ballpoint pen ink aging in digitized historical documents.
- Understanding ink degradation aids in developing better preservation strategies.
- The findings support informed decisions for the long-term storage of culturally significant materials.
Keywords:
AnoxiaBallpoint penColorantsFadingInkLebbyLightfastLow oxygenNatural agingNirenbergOxygen-freePhotoshopPhotoshop Assisted SpectroscopyRGBShiftingSkillcraftMore Related Videos
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