Book Display Case Conservation

Lead acetate test paper can detect acidic and sulfur gases that cause yellowing, brittleness, and odor in books, parchment, and leather artifacts.

Historic paper, parchment, and leather objects are highly susceptible to damage from airborne sulfur and acidic gases. Even trace hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, or organic acids can trigger yellowing, brittleness, and odor formation. Indigo® lead acetate test paper provides a simple, non-destructive indicator of such degradation risks such as blackening in the presence of hydrogen sulfide or related volatile sulfur compounds, and darkening over time in acidic environments. Conservation professionals can use these strips in storage rooms, vaults, or testing chambers to identify unsafe display materials, adhesives, or enclosures that emit reactive gases. This low-cost method complements instrumental air monitoring and helps prioritize where mitigation or ventilation improvements are most needed.