Paper coated with sonochemically synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles: Enhancement of properties for preservation of documents

Sonochemically synthesized zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were coated on paper for enhancing its properties in view of the preservation of documents. The paper used for accession register was used as substrate. Physical, chemical, optical, hydrophobic, and antifungal properties of the coated and uncoated papers were compared. Nanoparticles were synthesized with ultrasound from organic precursors and were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), whereas coated and uncoated papers were examined following standard procedures as described by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It was observed that coating with nanoparticles imparted mechanical strength, water repellence, and antifungal properties to the paper without compromising its printability. Hence, coated paper is comparatively more suitable for preservation of written or printed documents than uncoated paper.