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Acid Burn
Overview
Acid burn refers to the brownish discoloration and staining that appears in paper and artwork as a result of acidic deterioration. Over time, acids from mats, backing boards, or environmental pollutants migrate into the paper, causing visible staining. This process can be accelerated by exposure to ultraviolet light, which weakens fibers and intensifies discoloration.
Causes of Acid Burn
- Acidic mat boards and backings: Non-archival mats made from wood pulp are highly acidic and can transfer acid into adjacent artwork.
- Ultraviolet light: UV exposure breaks down paper fibers, making them more vulnerable to acid-related staining.
- Environmental factors: Pollutants, humidity, and heat can accelerate the chemical breakdown of paper and adhesives.
- Adhesives and tapes: Pressure-sensitive tapes and glues often contain acids that migrate over time.
Appearance of Acid Burn
Acid burn usually appears as:
- Brown or tan stains, often surrounding mat openings or borders.
- Uneven patches of discoloration that mirror the contact area of acidic materials.
- Progressive yellowing or browning of the entire sheet of paper if unprotected.
Prevention and Treatment
- Use archival materials: Choose acid-free or buffered mats, backings, and adhesives to prevent future acid transfer.
- Block UV light: Use UV-filtering glazing to reduce the accelerating effects of ultraviolet exposure.
- Conservation framing: Insert barrier layers (such as polyester film or alkaline interleaving) between artwork and non-archival materials.
- Professional restoration: Paper conservators can sometimes reduce visible stains through chemical washing or deacidification treatments, though full reversal is rarely possible.
Framing Industry Context
Awareness of acid burn has shaped the framing industry's shift toward acid-free and conservation-grade materials. Many framers now educate clients on the risks of acidic mats and backing, emphasizing the long-term importance of archival framing for preserving valuable or sentimental works.