Definition: The term archival refers to materials, methods, and practices designed to extend the life of artwork, photographs, or documents by protecting them from deterioration. In framing and conservation contexts, "archival" usually implies the use of acid-free or chemically stable materials, as well as processes that minimize environmental damage, light exposure, and chemical interactions.

Core Characteristics of Archival Materials

Chemical Stability: Free of acids, lignin, peroxides, and other compounds that cause paper, matting, or backing to yellow and degrade over time.
pH Neutral or Buffered: Often buffered with alkaline reserves such as calcium carbonate to resist acidic contamination.
Durability: Resistant to brittleness and mechanical breakdown over decades.
Light and Moisture Resistance: Designed to reduce fading, warping, or mold growth.

Applications in Picture Framing

Archival Mats: Made from cotton rag or alpha-cellulose, they prevent acid migration to artwork.
Archival Backing: Boards and substrates that provide a protective support without introducing acidity.
Archival Glazing: Includes UV-filtering acrylic or glass to minimize fading caused by light exposure.
Archival Tapes and Adhesives: Special conservation-quality mounting tapes that do not stain, yellow, or damage artwork.

Conservation and Archival Considerations

Using archival materials is critical for conservation framing, museum installations, and personal collections of high-value art. Non-archival materials-such as acidic mats, cardboard, and masking tape-may not show immediate damage but can cause irreversible deterioration over time, including yellow halos, brittle paper, and fading pigments.

Common Misconceptions

"Archival means permanent." - Archival materials significantly extend the life of artwork but do not make it indestructible. Environmental conditions still matter.
"All acid-free products are archival." - Some products labeled "acid-free" may initially test at a neutral pH but lack the buffering or long-term stability needed for true archival quality.
"Archival applies only to paper." - It extends to glues, tapes, plastics, textiles, metals, and even digital storage practices.

Historical Context

The emphasis on archival standards in art framing gained momentum in the mid-20th century, when conservators noticed widespread yellowing and degradation in prints, photographs, and documents framed with acidic mats and boards. This led to the development of conservation standards adopted by organizations such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) and the ASTM.

Professional Standards and Guidelines

The use of archival materials and practices is governed by standards and best practices developed by organizations such as:

ISO 18902: International standard for imaging materials and processed prints, detailing requirements for albums, framing, and enclosures.
Library of Congress Preservation Guidelines: Recommend acid-free, lignin-free, and buffered enclosures for long-term storage of paper-based artifacts.
AIC (American Institute for Conservation): Publishes best practices for conservation framing and handling of cultural property.
ASTM Standards: Define testing methods for pH, permanence, and stability of mat boards and backing boards.

Archival