An eco-friendly evaluation of geraniol and CeO2NPs paper poultices for multifunctional paper manuscript conservation

Abstract

Abstract This study highlights an advanced conservation method for paper manuscripts using eco-friendly methods that are safe, non-toxic, accessible, and feasible. It evaluates geraniol, a plant-derived compound, and cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO 2 NPs) loaded on Whatman paper poultices. A systematic investigation assessed their individual and combined performance on iron gall ink-treated paper samples. Various analyses were conducted, including USB microscopy, atomic force microscopy, colorimetry, pH measurements, X-ray diffraction analysis, and FTIR spectroscopy analysis. The study aims to determine the most effective approach for treating manuscripts damaged by fungal attacks, specifically Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus terreus , while minimizing oxidative damage and preserving paper integrity.