Infographic reveals complex chemistry behind comforting smell of old books

Old books have a sweet smell with notes of vanilla flowers and almonds, caused by the breakdown of chemical compounds in the paper The smell of new books depends on chemicals used in their manufacture and this can vary from volume to volume British chemistry teacher created the infographic to demystify the differing smells of old and new books and to reveal their chemical compounds

By Sarah Griffiths

Published: 10:15 EST, 3 June 2014 | Updated: 14:08 EST, 3 June 2014

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The smell of books that lingers in second-hand book stores is distinctive, but it is hard to know exactly what creates the nostalgic aroma.

Now one British chemistry teacher has created an infographic to explain how and why the scent of antique and new books differ.

Old books have a sweet smell with notes of vanilla flowers and almonds, caused by the breakdown of chemical compounds in the paper, while new books smell like they do because of chemicals used in their manufacture.

One British chemistry teacher has created an infographic to explain the scent of antique and new books. The anonymous blogger started publishing his infographics six months ago after creating some posters to brighten up his classroom and hopes to explain the chemistry of everyday substances.

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Infographic reveals complex chemistry behind comforting smell of old books