What are alkaline papers and what are their purpose?
Dating back into the 1850’s when the first refined wood pulp (sulphite) became available as a substitute for rag in the making of paper, there was a problem with paper having a certain amount of acidity. Acidic papers became brittle with age and eventually would crumble. For books and other documents where permanence and durability were of utmost importance, this was unacceptable. A demand by the customer for a longer lasting product led to the production of Alkaline papers. Today, about 75% of all fine paper manufactured in this country has an alkaline base which materially extends their lifetime. It is important to note, however; that not all printed documents need to be alkaline. Certain products such as advertising brochures, newsletters, memo pads, etc. are perfectly acceptable when printed on acidic papers.
