Método experimental para consolidar fibras de papel. (I parte del estudio)

Abstract

In this article we described a new enzymatic method to consolidate paper cellulose. The method involves the synthesis of cellulose, directly within the paper material, by the hydrolase enzyme: cellulase. The enzyme, used in a mixed solution of organic solvent/buffer (4:1) and in the presence of a specially designed substrate (β-cellobiosyl fluoride), acts as a synthetase and enabled the consolidation of both naturally and simulated aged papers. A special gel-like preparation based on agar polymer and including all the necessary reagents was used to easily perform the paper treatment. Scanning electron microscopy and mechanical testing studies shown that the aged papers exhibited heterogeneous and cracked cellulose fibres together with low mechanical resistance. It was also shown that the consolidation process led to the recovery of smooth and un-cracked cellulose fibres with resistance to tearing and lengthening close to the initial ones.