Degradation of paper can be observed on the basis of measurements of light emission, which is the consequence of oxidation. Peroxides are among the most important reaction intermediates. On the basis of CO2 emissions from paper, we were able to propose a possible mechanism of oxidation of aldehzde groups with atmospheric oxygen. During the process, a peroxyacid is formed, while during its decomposition, a hydroxyl radical, CO2 and a new aldehyde group are formed, the whole process leading to chemiluminescence. We also showed that chemiluminescence can be self-absorbed in the material itself.
COBISS.SI-ID: 29804549