Paper of books become brown this process is called?
VerifiedAnswer: Foxing
Explanation:
Have you ever noticed how old books in your library or at home develop brownish or yellowish spots and stains over time? This natural aging process that affects paper is called foxing. The term gets its name because the reddish-brown discoloration resembles the color of a fox's fur.
Foxing is a common phenomenon that occurs in books, especially those that are several decades old or stored in humid conditions. The process involves chemical reactions within the paper itself, which gradually change its appearance from the original white or cream color to various shades of brown, yellow, or rust.
The main causes of foxing include:
• Iron contamination: Paper often contains traces of iron from the manufacturing process. When exposed to moisture and oxygen over time, these iron particles oxidize, creating rust-like stains that appear as brown spots.
• Humidity and moisture: High humidity levels accelerate the chemical reactions that cause foxing. This is why books stored in damp basements or humid climates are more prone to developing these brown patches.
• Acidic paper: Many books, particularly those printed between 1850 and 1990, were made using acidic paper. The acid content breaks down the cellulose fibers in paper, leading to discoloration and brittleness over time.
• Fungal growth: Sometimes, microscopic fungi can contribute to the browning process, especially in books stored in poor conditions.
Interestingly, foxing doesn't happen uniformly across all pages. You might notice that some pages are more affected than others, or that the stains appear in random patterns. This is because the iron particles and other reactive materials are not evenly distributed throughout the paper.
While foxing is primarily an aesthetic issue and doesn't necessarily make books unreadable, it can significantly reduce their value, especially for rare or collectible books. Librarians and book conservators work hard to prevent foxing by controlling temperature, humidity, and storage conditions.
Modern books are less susceptible to foxing because they're often printed on acid-free paper and use better quality materials. However, older books will continue to show signs of foxing as they age, making this process an important consideration in book preservation and library science.
