Alphamat

Alphamat

Definition: Alphamat is a line of buffered, acid-free alpha-cellulose archival mats manufactured by Bainbridge. These mats are engineered to provide long-term stability while remaining more affordable than 100% rag mats. They are widely used in conservation framing, fine art presentation, and photography.

Overview

Bainbridge introduced Alphamat as a solution between purely decorative paper mats and the premium museum board. By using purified alpha-cellulose fibers and buffering agents (such as calcium carbonate), Alphamat products help neutralize environmental acids and extend the lifespan of framed works.

Conservation and Archival Considerations

While Alphamat boards are considered acid-free and suitable for preservation framing, they are not as inherently stable as cotton-based boards. Cotton contains no lignin, whereas alpha-cellulose must undergo processing to remove impurities. Alphamat is therefore highly stable and safe for most conservation purposes, though some conservators still prefer 100% cotton for irreplaceable or extremely valuable artworks.

Comparison with Other Mat Types

• Alphamat vs. Crescent Select: Both use purified alpha-cellulose. Alphamat is Bainbridge's archival line, while Crescent Select serves as Crescent's equivalent offering.
• Alphamat vs. Alpharag: Alpharag is Bainbridge's premium rag-based line, made of 100% cotton and considered the highest conservation standard.
• Alphamat vs. Rising: Rising produces a range of rag and alpha-cellulose boards, often favored in fine art printmaking and museum settings.

Framing Applications

• Ideal for preservation framing of photographs, prints, and works on paper.
• Often chosen when budget-conscious clients want better protection than decorative mats without the full expense of rag boards.
• Compatible with archival hinging methods and UV-protective glazing.

Common Misconceptions

• "Alphamat is 100% rag." False-Alphamat uses purified alpha-cellulose, not cotton linters.
• "Alphamat is only for decorative framing." False-Alphamat is specifically designed as a conservation-grade product, though slightly below rag mats in archival ranking.

Related Terms

• Crescent Select
• Rising
• Alpharag
• Select