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The article provides an overview of some of the major developments in radiation technology. The article further introduces basic, physical and biological principles of industrial applications based on ionization technology for the restoration of cultural heritage. Technical procedures and a list of the main European gamma radiation plants are summarized. Several experimental works specifically carried out on cellulose and printing paper are highlighted, demonstrating the possibility of applying radiation technology for disinfecting or treating infestations of books and documents from microorganisms and pests, as an alternative method to chemical treatments.

Focuses on an experiment regarding the effect of different gamma rays doses on the growth of a fungus responsible for the deterioration of paper. Discussion on alternation induced by gamma irradiation in cellulose components; Comparison of Whatman paper samples with artificially aged papers; Information on how irradiation of paper was carried during the experiment.

Features a study that examined the susceptibility of printed paper to attack of chewing insects after gamma irradiation and ageing. Effects of irradiation on the mechanical and chemical characteristics of paper; Types of paper used in the experiment; Relationship between the gamma dose absorbed by the paper and the erosion caused on it by the chewing insect.

Analyzes the impact of gamma rays on common printing ink in order to assess the feasibility of a treatment to disinfect books and documents based on the use of such radiation. Method used in assessing color fastness; Fastness of print samples to irradiation and to ageing; Fastness of the irradiated and aged prints to chemical and physical agents.

Presents a study which developed a system using gamma radiation to kill insects responsible for the destruction of books and documents. Relationship between the extent of erosion caused by cockroach and the radiation doses absorbed by cellulose; Effect of gamma radiation over time on the susceptibility of papers to insect attack; Examination of the amount of cellulose degraded after the treatment of gamma rays.

Investigates the effects of gamma radiation treatment of paper in different environmental conditions. Effects of radiation on commercial paper; Effect of ionizing radiation on microbial flora; Action of irradiation on paper over time; Advice when using irradiation treatment to preserve paper.

Deals with a study which assessed the effects of ionizing gamma ray radiation on the biology of the Periplaneta americana or cockroach. Background on ionizing rays; Analysis of the biological effects; Results; Discussion; Summaries.