Paperback books turn yellow over time due to a natural chemical process called oxidation.
Paper is made from cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plants.
When exposed to oxygen, light, and heat, the lignin in paper breaks down, leading to a yellowing effect.
Lignin is a natural polymer that gives wood its strength and rigidity.
Factors that accelerate yellowing:
- Sunlight: UV rays in sunlight are especially damaging to paper, causing it to yellow faster.
- Moisture: High humidity can increase the rate of oxidation, leading to quicker yellowing.
- Heat: Warm temperatures accelerate chemical reactions, including the oxidation process.
- Acidic paper: Paper made with acidic materials tends to yellow faster than acid-free paper.
Tips to minimize yellowing:
- Store books in a cool, dark place: Avoid storing books in direct sunlight or humid environments.
- Use acid-free paper: Acid-free paper is less prone to yellowing and is often used for archival and high-quality printing.
- Consider archival-quality storage: For valuable books, consider using acid-free boxes, sleeves, and other archival-grade materials.
