Archival, Conservation, Acid Free Paper - Jackson's Art Blog

By A Mystery Man Writer

Last updated 15 Jun 2024

Archival, Conservation, Acid Free Paper - Jackson's Art Blog

An artists asks: Archival? Conservation? Acid Free? Are they all the same?! I am getting confused about the difference between acid free and pH-neutral paper and paper which is ‘archival’ or ‘conservation’ quality. Are these all essentially the same thing? Read the informative and thorough answer from ‘Steve from St Cuthbert’s Mill’ to this question. Selecting the Right Paper is Easier when you Learn the Differences Between pH neutral and Acid-free Papers by Stephen Carroll Technical Supervisor at St Cuthbert’s Mill Paper and PH When discussing artists’ papers, the primary concern is with permanence, because paper is more than just a work surface– it’s an integral part of the whole creation. For permanence, the paper fibers used must be of a pure cellulose nature (plant tissue and fiber). Cotton is 100% cellulose, and high alpha woodpulp is 93% cellulose– both considered to be of excellent permanence. The presence of acids will contribute to the deterioration of papers, and the manner in which the paper is used and cared for will greatly determine its life. Currently, more and more manufactureres and archivists are proposing new definitions and standards offering correct terminology. The discussion continues, and poses the following questions and arguments.