The Bookkeeper process preserves and protects all forms of paper based materials. It deposits a safe, non-toxic alkaline buffer into the structure of the paper. This buffer material neutralizes acids that can rapidly weaken the paper and cause it to become brittle.

The buffer materials are microscopic particles of an alkaline compound (magnesium oxide). The particles are dispersed and suspended in an inert liquid material (a blend of non-toxic fluorinated materials). This dispersion can be applied by dipping or spraying. In contact with paper, the alkaline particles attach and blend with the paper structure, and the inert liquid simply evaporates. Because the formula contains no water, the liquid does not cause the paper fibers to swell or make the paper “wet,” and it will not cockle or stiffen from the application.

The process does not require pretreatment drying or post-treatment off-gassing and reconditioning of the paper. In small batches, the materials to be treated are immersed in the treating bath, and gentle motions of the paper and liquid are used to help ensure uniform coverage. During this time, the treating bath is continuously circulated to filter loose dust and dirt from the books and to monitor and maintain the proper concentration of treating materials. Then the treating materials are drained, and the remaining liquid evaporates and is recovered in the process. Batches usually take about 2 hours total, and the moisture content of the paper is not affected by the treatment.

Materials are treated individually or in small batches to ensure quality control. The final pH of the paper following treatment depends heavily on the paper composition prior to treatment. The range of possible pH results is between 7 and 10, and typical results are in the range of 8.0 – 9.5. Sufficient alkaline material is added to the paper to provide a protective alkaline reserve. The typical reserve is equivalent to adding 1.5% by weight calcium carbonate, or 300 milliequivalents per kilogram.

Over the first few weeks following treatment, the magnesium oxide particles combine with moisture in the air to form magnesium hydroxide, also a non-toxic alkaline buffer. These buffer particles readily absorb and neutralize the acids in the paper. The material continues to absorb acid over the life of the paper. This is a permanent treatment that should not need to be repeated under normal storage conditions.