Why do classic retro books develop a distinct sweet vanilla smell as they age over decades?

Question

I bought an old paper book from a street vendor and noticed it smells like vanilla and dried grass. What organic breakdown creates this pleasant aromatic compound?

PaperChemist · Answer

The wood pulp paper contains organic polymers called cellulose and lignin. Over decades, chemical oxidation breaks down these compounds into vanillin, which is the exact molecular compound found in natural vanilla.

Why do classic retro books develop a distinct sweet vanilla smell as they age over decades?

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