The test paper is moistened and applied to the ink. If iron (II) ions are present, the test paper changes color (turns a red/purple complex) due to the indicator bathophenanthroline reacting with the iron.
It identifies the presence of iron (II) ions (ferrous ions). These ions are responsible for iron gall ink corrosion , a destructive process that causes ink to eat through paper (oxidative degradation of cellulose). Gall-10rar
It is used by conservators to test manuscripts and documents without damaging them because it is non-bleeding. The test paper is moistened and applied to the ink
It can be purchased through archival and conservation supply stores, such as Conservation Resources or Conservation Supplies Australia . If you'd like, I can: Provide instructions on how to use the test paper These ions are responsible for iron gall ink
Developed by the Conservation Research Department at the Netherlands Institute for Cultural Heritage (ICN).
The (sometimes referred to as iron gall test paper) is a specially designed, non-bleeding test paper used in conservation to detect iron (II) ions in hydrophilic substrates. Key details about this paper include: