Normally you measure SURFACE pH by putting a drop of distilled or deionised
water on the paper, let it soak for about 30 seconds and then put the
electrode on the paper. Wait with reading untill the meter is stable. This
gives the pH at the surface of the paper (and a bit of the overall pH).
Then with a cotton swab or blotter paper take away the water and dry the
paper by weighting a piece of blotter paper on the spot. This is a non
destructive aproach and with a little experience tells you the pH of the
paper (readings may vary at different parts of the sheet). Destructive
tests need ground paper and are called extraction measurements, hot or
cold. I can look up the ANSI or ISO standards for you if you want, please
contact me offlist.
Bas van Velzen
Jonge Eland papierrestauratie
eland@knoware.nl
t +31 20 623 79 89
f +31 20 627 32 23
VeRes (Dutch Association of Professional Restorers)
postbus 11503
1001 GM Amsterdam
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