Chapter 1: The Codex Atlanticus

Leonardo da Vinci, renowned Renaissance artist and innovator, left behind a treasure trove of notes encapsulated in the Codex Atlanticus. This immense collection showcases his visionary sketches and designs for various inventions, including flying machines and siege engines. Comprising around 1,750 drawings from the latter half of the 15th century, these documents highlight Leonardo's remarkable creativity and intellect.

Often, such invaluable notes are lost after their creator's demise. Fortunately, Leonardo's works were preserved by Pompeo Leoni, a sculptor of the Renaissance, who compiled them into a comprehensive codex. Known as the Atlantic due to its atlas format, this unique manuscript is currently housed in Milan's Ambrosian Library. In the 1970s, conservation efforts led to the protection of its pages with passe-partout materials. However, an unusual occurrence soon began to unfold.

Section 1.1: Unraveling the Mystery of Black Stains

In 2006, conservators noticed that small black stains had begun to mar the passe-partout of the Codex Atlanticus, impacting over two hundred pages, starting from the 600th. Concerned about this phenomenon, researchers initiated investigations to uncover the cause of these blemishes.

The Codex Atlanticus was entrusted to conservators in 1962, who dedicated a decade to meticulously safeguarding each page. Since 1997, it has been maintained in a stable microclimate, ensuring consistent temperature and humidity levels. Despite these efforts, the emergence of black spots prompted further examination, leaving the mystery of their origin unresolved.

Subsection 1.1.1: Analyzing the Stains

A team from the Polytechnic University of Milan, led by Professor Luca Toniolo, investigated page 843 of the Codex using non-invasive techniques. Their analysis revealed that the stains were not of organic origin, indicating no microbial invasion. Instead, the areas with the most discoloration contained starch and vinyl adhesives used during previous conservation efforts.

The researchers also discovered the presence of inorganic nanoparticles measuring 100–200 nanometers. These particles were found in the gaps between the cellulose fibers of the passe-partout paper.

Chapter 2: The Role of Pollution and Restoration Materials

Further investigations at the European Synchrotron Radiation Center in Grenoble clarified the nature of these enigmatic nanoparticles. Scientists identified them as metacyanobrium, a rare black form of mercury sulfide.

Where did this metacyanobrium originate? While the precise source remains uncertain, researchers propose a compelling theory. The mercury content may stem from the adhesives used during restoration efforts conducted between 1962 and 1972, which were designed to inhibit microbial growth and secure the passe-partout to Leonardo's original pages.

The sulfur content, however, is likely a product of air pollution. In the 1970s, Milan experienced significant air quality issues, with high levels of sulfur dioxide recorded. It is hypothesized that sulfur reacted with mercury salts in the adhesives, leading to the formation of metacyanobrium, a discovery that has preoccupied scientists for years.

The findings regarding Codex Sheet 843 were published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports.

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