Background: In this work we explore the chemical effects of particulate matter on paper. We exposed paper made
of pure cellulose to the environment in different locations in central London, outdoors (in sheltered conditions) and
indoors, for a period of up to 6 months. We monitored particulate matter (PM) deposition by counting the particles
deposited every month with a scanning electron microscope. We analysed elemental composition of the deposited
particles using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. After accelerated degradation of the exposed samples,
we determined the degree of polymerisation using viscometry.
Results: We observed higher deposition rates and higher metal concentration outdoors than indoors. Elemental
analysis of the deposited particles revealed the presence of some transition metals (Fe, Cu, Cr) that can contribute to
the degradation of cellulose fibres through the Fenton reaction. By comparing the degree of polymerisation of pro‑
tected, unprotected and unexposed samples we could determine the relative contribution of PM deposition on the
increase of the degradation rate. We found that the surface concentration of iron correlates with the reduction in the
degree of polymerisation of the exposed paper.
Conclusions: The results suggest that the presence of Fenton metals in PM has a significant effect on the accelera‑
tion of the degradation of cellulose. However, we estimate that this will unlikely occur at the levels of area coverage
by PM that are typically avoided in indoor heritage through preventive maintenance and cleaning
