The effect of light-bleaching on the whitening and the degradation of paper was evaluated by studying two different parameters: firstly, the effect of different exposure times to light in a buffer solution of magnesium bicarbonate, compared to a 10 minute bleach in a 2% chlorine dioxide solution; secondly, the effect of the use of two different concentrations of the same buffer solution compared to light-bleaching in deionized water alone. It was concluded that a major factor influencing the whitening of the paper seems to be the exposure time, rather than the presence of the buffer during the bleaching process. Further suggestions are discussed. -- AATA