BPG Glossary of Terms

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This page gathers the glossaries found in the Paper Conservation Wiki. Included are the
glossaries from Adhesives, Hinge, Tape, and Adhesive Removal, Mold, and Written
Documentation. Readers may also wish to consult AIC Wiki Lexicon, CAMEO, the Ligatus
Language of Bindings, or other external sources.

Wiki Contributors: Katherine Kelly, Densise Stockman, Rebecca Smyrl, your name could be here

Copyright 2023. The Book and Paper Group Wiki is a publication of the Book and Paper
Group of the American Institute for Conservation. It is published as a convenience for the
members of the Book and Paper Group. Publication does not endorse nor recommend any
treatments, methods, or techniques described herein. Information on researching with the wiki
and citing the BPG Wiki can be found on the Reference and Bibliography Protocols page. The
BPG Wiki coordinators can be reached at [email protected].

Cite this page:

BPG Glossary of Terms. 2021. Book and Paper Group Wiki. American Institute for Conservation
(AIC). Accessed June 25, 2023. https://www.conservation-wiki.com/wiki/BPG_Glossary_of_Terms

Contents
 1 Glossary
o 1.1 A
o 1.2 B
o 1.3 C
o 1.4 D
o 1.5 E
o 1.6 F
 o 1.7 G
o 1.8 H
o 1.9 I
o 1.10 J
o 1.11 K
o 1.12 L
o 1.13 M
o 1.14 N
o 1.15 O
o 1.16 P
o 1.17 Q
o 1.18 R
o 1.19 S
o 1.20 T
o 1.21 U
o 1.22 V
o 1.23 W
o 1.24 X
o 1.25 Y
o 1.26 Z
 2 Bibliography
 3 Further Reading
 4 External Links
 5 History of This Page

Glossary[edit | edit source]

The glossary is written for book and paper conservators, related professionals, and other
persons who read written documentation created by conservators. The glossary's intent is to
define specialized terminology used in condition and treatment reports which is not defined in
general dictionaries, either adequately or at all. While a completely standardized vocabulary
does not yet exist in the field, this glossary is an attempt to gather terms in general use and
their meanings. Some terms are more widely used than others, and usage may vary according
to individual conservators. Not included in the glossary are terms describing artist's techniques
and media which have been well covered in a growing body of literature, such as How Prints
Look by William Ivins, A Handbook of Graphic Reproduction Processes by Felix Brunner, Looking at
Prints, Drawings and Watercolours by Paul Goldman, etc.
A[edit | edit source]

Abrasion
Damage caused by friction or rubbing action against the paper's surface by a hard,
rough or tacky material. May occur accidentally, inadvertently or deliberately, including
as a result of cleaning. Surface appearance of abrasion ranges from matte areas, to
lifted fibers, to uneven and scratched areas. Also see abrasion in the AIC Lexicon.
Accretion
Foreign material attached to the paper support. In general, it is superficial and rests on
top of the substrate; rather than being imbedded. An accretion may cause staining or
planar deformation in the support. Examples include mold growth, food, or fecal matter
of insects or rodents. Also see accretion in the AIC Lexicon.
Acid-free
State of being neutral or alkaline in pH, often used to describe paper goods used to
house art or artifacts.
Acidic
Of or pertaining to a state in which pH is less than pH7. Pure cellulose is initially slightly
acidic, but on exposure to light, oxygen, pollutant gasses, and acidic materials in its
environment, its pH can drop lower and lower. As a result, the paper loses strength and
flexibility, and sometimes changes in color.

pH scale

Acidity
Chemical state characterized by a pH below pH7; where pH is a reciprocal logarithmic
measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions. Acids are chemical substances with a
pH below 7, which react with alkalis and can neutralize them. Acids in the presence of
moisture degrade paper by causing acid hydrolysis of the cellulose molecule, that is,
breaking up of the long cellulose polymer into shorter segments, resulting in paper
which is weak and brittle. Also see acidity in the AIC Lexicon.
Adherend
The surface/object onto which an adhesive is intended to stick.
Adhesive
1. A material which joins surfaces together by adhesive forces. Adhesives may consist of
starch, gums, proteins, rubber, shellac, or synthetics. Each type has different working
properties and chemical characteristics.
2. A substance capable of holding materials together by surface attachment. (Skeist
1977)
Alkaline, alkalinity
Chemical state characterized by a pH above pH7, where pH is a reciprocal logarithmic
measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions. Alkaline compounds such as calcium or
magnesium salts can protect the cellulose in paper from acid degradation by
neutralizing acidity. Alkaline solutions also swell cellulose which can aid in the release
of stains and discoloration. Very strong alkalis can degrade the cellulose polymer chain
by the peeling reaction. Some colorants are pH sensitive and change color or are
decolorized by alkalinity. Physical qualities and long-term strength of papers also
depend on the pH of the paper and the percent of alkaline reserve present. Also
see alkaline in the AIC Lexicon.
Alkaline reserve
Alkaline earth salts of calcium or magnesium, such as calcium or magnesium carbonate,
introduced into paper at its manufacture or in conservation treatment. Calcium and
magnesium carbonate are consumed in the process of neutralizing acidity. Their
presence assures paper longevity as long as there is an adequate unreacted reserve to
neutralize acidity in the future.
Animal glue
An impure, brown protein-based adhesive made from the hooves and cartilage of
animals.
Apron
“The extra amount of unprinted paper left to serve as the binding edge of a leaf which
folds out” (Roberts and Etherington). A full apron is an apron of extended length that
allows a foldout map to be fully visible when a book is closed. Note: The terms throw
out, full apron, and foldout have overlapping meanings in various glossaries.
Archicarp (mold)
The initial stage of fructification.
Asexual reproduction (mold)
Reproduction not involving karyogamy and meiosis. In general, asexual reproduction is
most important for the propagation of the species, because it results in the production
of many more individuals, and is repeated several times during a season, whereas
the sexual stage of many fungi is produced only once a year.
Atlas
A bound collection of tables, charts, plates, or maps. The topic is discussed more on the
wiki page for Atlases, Foldouts, and Guarded Structures.
Attachments
Integral items or materials (for example, labels, collage elements, etc.), which are
adhered locally to the primary support rather than overall.
Auxiliary Support
See Support, auxiliary.

B[edit | edit source]

Backing
Material(s) adhered to the back of the primary support. Attachment may be partial or
overall. Backings may or may not be original to the support.
 Binder
The material which holds pigment particles or dye in a paint or other artist's medium
and which helps adhere it to the support. Also called medium.
Blanching
An area of binder which has developed an unintended white or whitish appearance,
possibly the result of exposure to moisture or fast-evaporating solvents which occasion
local chilling and condensation. Also called bloom, especially in referring to varnish. Also
see blanching in the AIC Lexicon.
Bleeding
Physical movement of non-fast colorants. Usually occurs in the presence of moisture
and results in a blurred or feathered appearance. Movement may occur laterally or
penetrate to the reverse, which is also called sinking. Also see bleeding in the AIC
Lexicon.
Blocking
1. Condition in which adjacent sheets of paper, e.g. book pages or a stack of sheets,
become unintentionally adhered, often because adhesive is present on one or more
sheets and has been subjected to pressure while the adhesive is tacky.
2. An undesired adhesion between touching layers of a material, such as occurs under
moderate pressure during storage or use ASTM from Skeist (1977).
Bloo
m
Opaque or cloudy white appearance on a transparent film of varnish or lacquer which
may be related to moisture absorbed in the film. Also see bloom in the AIC Lexicon.
B
o
n
d
s
t
r
e
n
g
t
h
An expression, usually in units, which relates relative strength of an adhesive/adhered
bond.
Br
ea
k(
s)
Scission of paper fibers due to physical weakness in the paper support; generally caused
by simple handling and flexing or repeated folding of a very brittle support, in
distinction to tears or cuts.
 Buckli
ng
A random deformation in plane, usually concave and convex in appearance. See
also cockling.
Budding
(mold)
A form of asexual reproduction in which the somatic cells each bud, producing a new
individual.
Buffer
1. A solution of ions and acids or bases which is capable of maintaining a nearly
constant specific pH despite the addition of further acids or bases. In conservation, the
term buffered is sometimes used erroneously to refer to the alkaline reserve. It is
preferable to refer to the added substance as an alkaline reserve and avoid the use of
the word buffer in this context. Nonetheless, matboard and paper goods with an
alkaline reserve have a history of being called buffered paper or board.
2. The term buffer is also used in describing the effect of certain materials to lessen the
shock of sudden change. In discussing environmental conditions for artwork, packaging
or housing can be designed and constructed to buffer sudden changes of
temperature, relative humidity or shock.
Bulge
A planar distortion or protuberance characterized by a distinct convex formation.
Burn
Darkening, scorching, embrittlement or destruction caused by heat, fire or certain
chemical reactions.
Burnished
Surface area rubbed or polished yielding a shiny and /or smooth appearance.
Burnishing may occur accidentally or deliberately. Also see burnishing in the AIC
Lexicon.

C[edit | edit

Calender
Manufacturing process of pressing paper or cloth between a set of polished metal
rollers in order to give it a very smooth, polished surface. Also see calendered in the AIC
Lexicon.
Card
A medium weight, stiff paper support which generally has a smooth, polished surface
due to a manufacturing process known as calendaring.
Cellulose
A long-chain carbohydrate polymer found in the walls of plant cells. It is the primary
constituent of paper.
Cleavage
Separation or splitting between layers of media, for example, cleavage of paint from
a support. See also flaking and cleavage in the AIC Lexicon.
 Coating
1. A material applied to the surface of paper during its manufacture which affects its
surface characteristics and enhances its working properties.
2. Application of a material to paper support and/or media for various treatment
purposes, such as consolidation, fixing, sizing or varnishing.
3. Application of a material to the paper support and/ or media, at the time the object is
produced or at a later date in order to manipulate the visual or working properties of
the support or media.

Example of cockl

Cockling
Deformation of a planar support, generally paper, characterized by multiple alternate
concave and convex distortions or ripples, often in parallel ridges. Also see cockling in
the AIC Lexicon.
Cohesion
The ability of a material to stay united with itself under stress.
Collector's ma
An identifying mark, generally a relatively small stamp - inked, embossed or perforated -
or a marking applied by some other means, which denotes ownership or provenance.
Colloid, protec
Any surface-active substance that prevents the dispersed phase of a suspension from
coalescing by forming a thin layer on the surface of each particle(Hawley 1977).
Colony (mold)
A group of individuals of the same species, living in close association; in fungi, refers to
the many hyphae growing out of a single spore and usually forming a round or
globose thallus.
 Compensation
A restoration technique in which losses to the support and/or media are replaced
partially or completely, to provide visual continuity and in some cases to enhance
structural support. Also see compensation in the AIC Lexicon.
Compensation
Material added in the gutter of a bound volume to compensate for the thickness of
bulky material positioned towards the fore edge. Also called compensation
guards (Roberts and Etherington) or compensating guards (The Language of Bindings
Thesaurus). Simple strips of board or paper are sometimes called compensation
stubs (Wootton, Boone, and Robb 2000; and Brown 2000).
Composite atla
A collection of previously issued maps from various sources, gathered together into a
binding. Also called atlas factice, Lafreri atlas, or Italian assembled-to-order (IATO)
atlases. The last term was “coined by George H. Beans to describe the sixteenth-century
Italian atlases assembled for clients by map publishers from a stock of separately
published maps” (Woodward 1982). Composite atlas is the Library of Congress
Genre/Form Term.
Conidiophore
A simple or branched hypha arising from a somatic hypha and bearing at its tip or side
one or more conidiogenous cells.
Conidium (mo
(pl. conidia) A non-motile air-borne asexual spore usually formed at the tip or side of a
sporogenous (spore producing) cell.
Consolidation
Reattachment or securing of media which is flaking, cracking and /or friable, by
introduction of adhesive or by application of heat, solvent, pressure, and/or adhesive.
Contact adhes
Examples of these are contact cements used to laminate materials such as plywood and
phenolic resin plastics (Formica) in the building trades.
Crack
Physical separation or break within one or more layers of a material, often the result of
mechanical stress or contraction on drying. Also see crack in the AIC Lexicon.

A crease in paper

Crease
A line, mark or ridge of paper caused by folding or crushing. Also see crease in the AIC
Lexicon.
 Creep, cold flo
The ability of a material to move under ambient conditions. This property is related
to glass transition temperature (Tg).
Cross fold
Two folds which intersect, generally at right angles (Angsüsser 2013). Also called a right
angle fold in the paper industry. A French fold refers to a single sheet of paper folded
into fourths using a cross fold.
Cryptogamic (m
A plant that bears no flowers or seeds but propagates by means of spores.
Cut
A sharp-edged break in the paper support, caused by a sharp instrument or object.

D[edit | edit

Darkening
A shift in color which is darker than the original appearance. May occur as a result of
contact with poor quality materials and/or exposure to adverse environmental
conditions. The appearance of darkening may be partial or overall.

Drawing with lea

Deacidification
A general term used to describe treatment steps taken to raise the pH of acidic paper to
pH7 (neutral pH) and to pH higher than 7 (alkaline pH). It can be accomplished by
immersion in or by spraying with an aqueous or nonaqueous alkaline solution or
suspension, or by deposition of an alkaline earth salt on materials in a vacuum
chamber. If deacidification is accomplished by immersion in an alkaline solution, it may
also be accompanied by removal of soluble acidity, degradation products,
and discoloration. Also called neutralization and alkalization. See also acidity, alkalinity,
and deacidification in the AIC Lexicon.
Deckle edge
A thinner, uneven accumulation of paper fibers at the edge of a paper sheet. It occurs
because relatively less paper fiber is deposited along the deckle of the papermaking
mold during the manufacture of handmade paper. An imitation deckle edge may be
artificially created on machine made paper.
Degradation, b
Deterioration caused by biological factors such as mold, insects, rodents, etc.
 Degradation, c
Deterioration resulting from reaction between primary support and/or media and other
chemical species such as atmospheric pollutants, residues from manufacture and poor
quality materials.
Degradation, p
Deterioration caused by physical factors such as wear and tear, use, handling,
movement, etc.
Deionized wat
A type of purified water which has had ions of dissolved chemicals removed by being
passed through one or more deionizing columns, filled with compounds which remove
the ions into which soluble chemicals disassociate when they dissolve in water.
Deionizing columns do not remove solid particles, so particulate filters are needed as
well. Most ions removed are harmful to paper, such as iron and copper ions. Deionizing
columns also remove calcium, a beneficial ion, which is sometimes added to deionized
water for its beneficial effects. Deionized water is not sterile, in contrast to freshly
distilled water. See also distilled water and deionized water in the AIC Lexicon.
Delaminate
Lateral separation of a once continuous support or surface into constituent layers. Also
see delaminating in the AIC Lexicon.
Desiccated
State characterized by near or total loss of moisture content.
Destructive an
A type of analysis in which a sample of material is consumed during testing.
Diffuse
Characterizes a stain which is without distinct edges or boundaries.
Dimensions
The size of an object, customarily recorded in the order of height, width, depth.
Generally, maximum dimensions are given if portions are missing or support is
irregular, identifying where measurements were made.
Dimpling
Slight indentations in a paper support. Dimpling often occurs when the primary
support is partially affixed to a secondary support.
Discoloration
1. A change or shift from the original color. Also see discoloration in the AIC Lexicon.
2. The chemical or degradation byproduct in the paper which causes the color change.
Discrete
Characterizes a stain which has a distinct edge or boundary.
Distilled water
Water which has been purified by distillation, a process in which water is heated to
boiling, the resulting water vapors are carried through a distillation column where the
vapors cool, condense and are collected. In distillation, dissolved ions and particulates
are both left behind. Freshly distilled water is sterile. Also see distilled water in the AIC
Lexicon.
Distortion
A deformation in the plane of the support and/or media. Also see distortion in the AIC
Lexicon.
Dog-eared
Crease caused by a single or numerous folds in the corners of paper support.
Draw
Planar distortion usually located in the corners of support. Distortion is characterized by
soft undulations resulting from tipped corners onto a secondary support. This manner
of attachment prevents free expansion and contraction of the primary support in
response to fluctuations in relative humidity.
Dry cleaning
Removal of unimbedded or superficial dirt and grime by eraser cleaning techniques, as
opposed to aqueous or solvent treatments. Erasers which might be employed include
vinyl (grated or solid), kneaded, rubber or gum. Dry cleaning may also be performed
with a brush, cloth or blower. Also called surface cleaning. Also see dry cleaning in
the AIC Lexicon.

E[edit | edit

Efflorescence
Dissolution, outward migration and precipitation of salts from within a material. These
salts are visible on a surface as small crystals or white powdery or crusty deposits. Also
see efflorescence in the AIC Lexicon.
Elastomer
A material which can deform at room temperature and reform under the same
condition with no change in its properties.
Embrittlement
Very low folding strength or tendency to break when folded, associated with adverse
effects of acids, oxygen, light, heat and residual chemicals from the original
manufacture of the paper or after manufacture. See
also desiccated and embrittlement in the AIC Lexicon..
Encapsulate
To create an enclosure with sealed edges around a paper sheet using two pieces of
an auxiliary support, which is generally transparent. The durable, flexible, and very
permanent plastic film called polyethylene polyester terephthalate, better known in the
U.S. by the brand name Du-Pont Mylar Type D, is currently the preferred auxiliary
material for paper objects. The edges may be joined or sealed by heat, ultrasound, 3M
415 double-sided tape, or by machine sewing. Also see encapsulting in the AIC Lexicon.
Enzyme
A complex protein produced by living organisms that acts as a catalyst in specific
chemical reactions, by inducing or speeding such reactions as breaking down and
solubilizing starch (amylase), protein (protease), or fat (lipase), etc. Enzymes catalyze but
are not consumed in the reaction, so very small amounts are necessary. Enzymes
generally require moisture to be active, and, in theory, residual enzyme can be
reactivated if moisture is supplied. Therefore, after an enzyme treatment step, a
thorough rinsing is advised whenever possible and a deactivation step may also be
advised in which any remaining enzyme protein is denatured by solvent, heat, etc.
Eukaryotic (mo
Any organism or cell with a structurally discrete nucleus.
Extender
In adhesive use, a material used to increase the volume of an adhesive. Calcium
carbonate, hydrated alumina are examples.

Shifts of color in pigments or dyes, generally resulting from exposure to light, but
occasionally from changes in pH or exposure to chemicals or pollutants. Also
see fading in the AIC Lexicon.

A margin which has been adhered to the edges of the primary support. The margin may
consist of individual strips of paper or a single sheet of paper in which the center area
has been removed thereby framing the primary support.

See bleeding.

A technique employed to replace a loss. Fills range from an insert of a like and stable
paper, a pulp fill, or simply provided by lining. Fills may be considered stabilizing and/or
restorative.

A form of asexual reproduction involving the fission of somatic cells into daughter cells,
each growing into a new individual.

A coating applied to protect a soluble or friable medium while undertaking other

treatment procedures. The fixative coating prevents bleeding or transfer of the medium.

Lifting and detaching of clusters of pigment and binder which occurs when
a medium loses its binding properties or when it has undergone physical stress. Flaking
often results in losses. Also see flaking in the AIC Lexicon.
The emission of radiation, generally as visible light, during exposure to a source of
radiation of a different wavelength, such as an ultraviolet lamp. Also, the radiation so
emitted. In conservation examination, the ultraviolet lamp, also called a black lamp, is
used to look for the characteristic fluorescence of iron and iron gall ink (actually black
absorption), oils, varnishes, protein glues, and sizes, certain pigments or
dyes, mold growth and foxing.

A dark brown or black accretion of fecal matter produced by insects. Flyspecks appear a
small, round, convex droppings; they are often found in clusters. The material is
quite acidic and damage caused by staining and deterioration of the support is often
irreversible.

In which one part of the paper support is laid over onto itself. Creasing may or may not
accompany a fold.

“Inserts that are larger than the trim size of the book or other publication and which
must be folded before insertion” (Roberts and Etherington).

An imperial measurement of the intensity of light, based on the light of one candle at a
distance of one foot. Used to express recommended light levels for light-
sensitive media and paper, often in the range of 5 to 10 footcandles. See also lux.

Reddish-brown spots associated with mold growth or metallic specks. Foxing can vary in
size and maybe round, diffuse, or discrete spots. Sometimes the centers of foxing are
darker than surrounding areas. Under ultraviolet examination areas of mold
growth fluoresce brightly, while iron-rich spots and specks absorb ultraviolet without
fluorescence and appear black. Also see foxing in the AIC Lexicon.
A form of asexual reproduction that involves the fragmentation of the soma, each
fragment growing into a new individual.

Chewed material dropped by feeding animals or insects. Also see frass in the AIC
Lexicon.

Nature of a material characterized by a loosely bound powdery state. Some media are
friable by nature including fabricated and natural chalks and charcoal. Friable states
may result from deterioration or desiccation of binder. Also
see powdering and friability in the AIC Lexicon.

Any complex fungal structure that contains or bears spores.

(pl. gametes) A differentiated (male or female) reproductive cell, capable of uniting with
another gamete to form a zygote that develops into a new individual.

A semisolid system consisting of a network of solid aggregates in which liquid is

held (Skeist 1977).

The temperature at which an amorphous material (such as glass or a high polymer)

changes from a brittle, vitreous state to a plastic state. Many high polymers, such as the
acrylics and their derivatives, have this transition point, which is related to the number
of carbon atoms in the ester group (Hawley 1977).

Protective transparent material used in framing, such as glass, polycarbonate and acrylic
sheeting.

Surface quality of being very smooth, shiny and reflecting light.

Physical damage to support and/or media appearing as a discrete concave distortion,

generally accompanied by a spot or linear disruption of the surface. Often the result of
sudden impact on a surface, such as with a tool or broken glass. Also see gouge in
the AIC Lexicon.

A substance which is oily in composition and can penetrate, stain and/or visually
disfigure the support and/or media on contact.

Dirt of a greasy nature. It may be imbedded or superficial. Also see grime in the AIC
Lexicon.
“A strip of cloth or paper on which an illustration, map, etc., may be attached and sewn
through with the section, thus allowing free flexing" (Roberts and Etherington). Ligatus
distinguishes between leaf guards for single leaves or bifolios, and extension
guards for foldouts. Also called a conjugate guard (Woodward 1982).

"Plates which are inserted into a book without being tipped to one of the leaves of the
book. The paper area of the plate is wider than the leaves of the book, the projecting
part being wrapped around the fold of the section. A narrow strip of paper appears
elsewhere in the book as a consequence" (Roberts and Etherington). Could also be
called sewn in.

"A method of securing two plates to one guard. While the positioning of the guard
within the section may or may not allow for either or both sides to be located near the
accompanying text material, guarding in this manner may help alleviate some of the
swelling caused by the thickness of the material used for the guards" (Roberts and
Etherington).

A natural secretion from certain plants with adhesive properties. Gums are used
as binders and adhesives.

Small creases, often arc-shaped, in a paper support usually resulting from careless
handling practices.

Paper made in the traditional technique, in which a vatman dips a papermaking mold
into a vat of paper pulp, catching a fiber slurry which drains to create a mat of
intertwined fibers. These fibers, on drying, form a sheet of handmade paper.

A thin tissue paper coated with an adhesive layer which becomes tacky when heated, for
example with a handheld tacking iron, and is adhered with light pressure. Developed as
an alternative to traditional paper mending techniques. Its use was popularized at the
Library of Congress. Their original formulation recommended Barcham Green lens
tissue, with a coating of acrylic dispersions Rhoplex AC-73 and Plextol B-500. The paper
and adhesives in the Library of Congress formulation are stable and generally easily
reversible. Also called Library of Congress heat-set tissue.

A folded piece of paper, Japanese paper, linen tape, etc., used to attach a paper artifact
to a mount or mat, in such a way that a portion of the hinge is adhered to the back edge
of the artifact, while the remaining portion of the hinge is adhered to the surface of a
mount or mat. This attachment system can provide good structural support, yet allows
safe, ready access to the attachment when it is desired to remove the artifact.
See Loss.

The formation of a fold at the spine edge of a leaf to allow the leaf to be sewn into the
binding (Glaister 1979 233). (Definition is analogous to “hook-type endleaves” in The
Language of Bindings Thesaurus). This is called a returning guard in Brown 2000.

Treatment procedure in which moisture is introduced either as a liquid mist or spray or

as water vapor to expand the fiber matrix of the paper support and to allow the release
and reforming of hydrogen bonds in the paper support, thus permitting realignment of
fibers.

A colorless, transparent, hyphae.

(pl. hyphae) The unit of structure of most fungi; a tubular filament.

Physical state of a foreign material being irreversibly ground into the support. The
material may be intended or unintended.

The asexual (usually conidial) stage of a fungus.

Light falling onto a surface.

Foreign material included within a paper support or other support layer, generally
added inadvertently in manufacture.

The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum which lies below or beneath visible red,
which is invisible and which results in heating when it is absorbed by surfaces.
Generally, infrared radiation is not useful for visibility and its heating effects are not
generally desirable. Infrared examination, however, can be part of a conservation
examination in which a carbon-based underdrawing is suspected but concealed by
heavy layers of paint. As a longwave radiation, infrared is better able to penetrate
visually opaque paint layers. When it strikes underlying carbon-based drawing, the
infrared is absorbed, while it is reflected back by underlying white ground. This
differential absorption/reflection can be seen on a vidicon screen and captured by
camera, to reveal carbon underdrawings.

A restoration technique in which areas of loss in the media and in some cases in
the support are compensated to provide visual continuity. Various artist's media may be
employed. Also see inpainting in the AIC Lexicon.
Information bearing marks or writing which are considered original to the object or
which have been added over time.

Physical damage to support and/or media as a result of destructive contact with insects.
Damage may appear as surface thinning, losses, or as accretions, such as flyspecks.

A technique used to fill a loss in a paper support, in which a similar weight paper or
paper laminate is physically shaped to the contours of a loss, often with a bevel or shelf
margin that slightly overlaps the edges of the original thus permitting
strong adhesive attachment to the original. Occasionally, inserts are not adhered to the
original, but instead attached to a mat backboard directly behind the loss.

A paper support made by traditional Japanese hand papermaking techniques (or by

machine in some cases), using traditional Japanese papermaking fibers of kozo (paper
mulberry), mitsumata, or gampi. Japanese paper is very strong (has a high tear strength)
even in thin weights, because of the very long fibers used to make the paper stock. It
generally retains its strength on aging. Japanese paper may be encountered as
the primary support, in Eastern or Western art, or as a conservation material. Japanese
paper is valued in conservation treatments because its thinness and translucency make
it less obtrusive, while its strength and stability on aging lend long-term support to the
original.

Sexual reproduction through the fusion of two nuclei.

See loss.

Paper which is characterized by a grid-like variation in thickness apparent in

both raking and transmitted light. The grid consists of chain and laid lines. Chain lines
are spaced further apart than laid lines. Laid lines are very close together and run
perpendicular to the chain lines. True laid paper is hand made, though machine made
paper can be given an impression resembling chain and laid lines through use of a
dandyroll in manufacturing. The texture of Western papers is created by the closely
spaced copper wires of the papermaking mold surface, while the chain lines result from
the fine wire stitching that holds the surface flat. The distribution of paper fibers is
thinnest where the laid and chain lines intersect.
A layered structure of parallel sheets of various materials, fused or adhered together
into one entity. In paper conservation, laminates may refer to layered paper as found in
board construction or used to make paper inserts.

A reinforcement technique used on paper artifacts, in which one or more layers of

transparent material, generally a plastic, are applied overall to the recto and/or verso of
the paper artifact. The lamination may be accomplished through the use of plastics and
a proprietary adhesive or through thermoplastic materials, such as cellulose acetate,
which fuse with heat. Cellulose acetate lamination was introduced in the 1930's by
William Barrow. Most examples encountered in the U.S. are cellulose acetate
lamination, though other plastics have been used elsewhere. Cellulose acetate
laminations can degrade, showing contraction of the plastic film, generally accompanied
by a pungent odor of vinegar. Lamination alters the surface appearance of the paper
artifact. Laminations are generally difficult to reverse, requiring strong solvents and/or
heat, which may endanger the paper artifact. Newer techniques such as
polyester encapsulation and Japanese linings accomplish some of the goals of
lamination and are easy to reverse. For these reasons, lamination as defined above has
fallen into disuse and disfavor. However, under certain circumstances such as extreme
fire damage, modern laminating techniques using a thermoplastic adhesive and tissue
lamination may be considered an option.

A printing method in which dies with individual raised letters are set in sequence in a
chase. When paper is placed over the inked form and run through a press, ink transfers
to the paper, and an inked impression of the letters is made in the paper. Letterpress
printing is characterized by recessed inked letters on the recto, and on the verso the
impressions if still intact can be felt and seen easily.

Reduction of stability of paper support and media caused by (long term or high
intensity) exposure to light and ultraviolet radiation. Wavelengths in the ultraviolet
region of the electromagnetic spectrum are considered most harmful to paper, however
all wavelengths of light are damaging. Light damage is cumulative and its effects may
continue in the dark, after intermittent exposure.

Polymer which binds together the long cellulose molecules in woody plants. When the
plant structure is disrupted in papermaking, lignin becomes unstable, especially on
exposure to light or pollutants. Paper and paperboards containing lignin discolor and
become increasingly acidic as they age.
“A method of accommodating a [foldout] that is longer than the trimmed height of the
book. A portion of a leaf to be folded adjacent to the gutter margin is cut away, i.e.,
lipped, so that the remaining portion may be folded without buckling and creasing the
binding margin” (Roberts and Etherington). Glaister calls this nibbed (1979, 343). This
cutting away is discussed in bookbinding manuals (Pleger 1915, 41-43).

Describes a stain caused by water or moisture. A liquid stain is often characterized by a

tideline. See also tideline.

Area of the support and/or media which is physically detached or missing. Also
see loss in the AIC Lexicon.

A metric measurement of light which is approximately 10 times greater than a

footcandle, resulting in recommended light ranges of 50 to 100 lux. See footcandle.
 As recommended for conservation purposes, a type of protective rigid enclosure for a
paper artifact, which is made from a relatively rigid paper board called matboard. While
a number of mat structures are possible, the most common structure has two pieces, a
front window mat, which has a "window" or opening cut to make the paper artifact
visible, and a back board, a solid piece of mat-board the same outer dimensions as the
window mat. Generally the window mat is attached to the back matboard with a
folded hinge of linen tape applied along the length of one entire side, so that the mat
can be readily opened. A mat is always supposed to be larger in length and width than
the paper artifact enclosed within it, so that it can protect all edges of the paper.
Similarly, the thickness of the window mat is to be greater than the maximum thickness
or most protruding part of the artifact, so that the surface of the artifact is also entirely
protected from contact or damage. Matboard comes in varying thickness. Four-ply
board is most commonly used to make mats, though two-ply is handy for mounts to
insert in a window mat, and eight or more plies may be needed to create a window mat
that is thicker than a thick or undulating support. Typically a paper artifact is attached to
a mat by hinges, though folded corners of paper or polyester may be placed over the
corners of the artifact and attached to the mat as well.

m http://www.aiccm.org.au/visual-glossary/mat-burn

A brown line of staining on the support within the aperture of a mat window opening
cut from mat board containing lignin. The staining results from the migration
of acidic components in the mat board. Also called mat stain. Also see mat burn in
the AIC Lexicon.

Surface appearance which has no shine, reflectiveness or gloss.

1. Material(s) which comprise the image bearing components of the object.

2. The binder which holds together pigments in a material used to make images.
 Sexual reproduction through a series of two nuclear divisions in which the number of
chromosomes is reduced by half.

A technique used to provide physical stability to a tear or otherwise vulnerable site,

generally consisting of a thin reinforcing repair paper and an adhesive to attach it
securely to the paper artifact.

A surface growth of fungus which may have varying color, shape and configuration. It
generally proliferates in damp conditions (60% relative humidity or greater) where there
is little air circulation. Damage caused by mold includes staining and loss of strength.
Also see mold in the AIC Lexicon.

rvington History Center.

The branch of biology that deals with the form and structure of plants and animals.

Capable of or exhibiting spontaneous motion.

Uneven and diffused discoloration which may appear on both support and media.

Auxiliary support to which the primary support is partially affixed for storage and
exhibition purposes. A window mat may be attached to the mount. It is also the term
used in England for mat.

(pl. mycelia) Mass of hyphae which make up the fungal thallus.

 A smooth, lightweight paper made from unpurified wood pulp fiber stock. Newsprint
is acidic and high in lignin. These components contribute to its physical instability and
predisposition to darkening with the simple passage of time, and especially when
exposed to light and pollutants.

A liquid solvent-based system used in treatment in which water is not present.

sis
A type of analysis during which a sample is not consumed during testing.
Nondestructive analysis includes testing in which a sample is removed from the artifact
but is not consumed (so that it can be returned to the artifact or used for other
analysis), as well as analysis done in situ, without sampling, such as some types of x-ray
fluorescence analysis.

Light which strikes a surface perpendicularly, e.g. at a 90 degree angle to the surface.

t source]

A mirror image of a paper artifact created by transfer of media or binder to an adjacent

sheet of paper, glass, board or plastic film, or by chemical migration of constituents in
the paper or medium, such as oil in printer's ink or lignin derived staining.

edit source]

A support, generally flexible, made from a liquid suspension of beaten plant fibers
deposited on a surface. The primary constituent is cellulose. Paper characteristics vary
depending on the quality and chemical stability of fibers and additives and procedures
employed in the manufacture.
us
Support made from overlapped parallel strips of reed plant stalks.
rasite (mold)
A plant or animal that lives on or in an organism of another species.
Parchment/vellum

Support made from one of a variety of animal skins, which have been dehaired, soaked in lime, stretched,
scraped, and allowed to dry under tension.

Paste
A type of adhesive prepared by cooking starch in water until it forms a thick translucent
white suspension. When prepared from purified water and when free of additives, paste
has excellent aging properties and can be easily reversed.
Pasteboard
 Semi-rigid support consisting of several sheets of paper pasted or adhered together.
Perfect stage (mold)
The sexual stage of a fungus.
Pigment
A finely-divided colorant, which may be derived from a wide variety of substances,
organic and inorganic, natural and artificial. Pigments are insoluble in the binder in
which they are used, distinguishing them from dyes which are coloring matter that form
solutions.
Pith
A smooth white paper-like support which is cut in a spiral from the soft, spongy tissue
found in the center of certain plants. Found in Western collections as the support for
souvenir depictions of Chinese life. Also called, erroneously, rice paper.
Plasmogamy (mold)
A union of two protoplasts bringing the nuclei close together within the same cell. The
first stage in sexual reproduction in fungi.
Plasticizer
A liquid or soft solid at room temperature that makes the elastomer softer and more
conformable to the surface to which the adhesive is applied.
Platemark
The concave impression made in a paper support by a printing plate as it is run through
a printing press. Usually, printing plates have been copper or zinc plates, of square or
rectangular shape with beveled edges to prevent abrupt edges cutting through the
paper. No platemark will be created if the paper support is smaller than the plate.
Poultice
A malleable mass or material which absorbs water or other solvents and can be applied
to an artifact surface, so as slowly to release solvent and/or to absorb solvent and
matter dissolved in it. Poultices can be applied to hold water, solvents, or solutions in
intimate contact with a surface so as to soften accretions or adhesive. In addition,
poultices can function as absorbers of matter dissolved in a solvent, drawing out soluble
matter from a surface by virtue of capillarity. Also see poulticing in the AIC Lexicon.
Powdering
Physical state characterized by a loosely bound material. May be used in describing the
inherent properties of a media (see friable) or to describe the appearance of a condition
or damage.
Prepared paper
The surface of a paper support which has been covered with an application of a
pigmented chalk ground or coating, to prepare it to receive the intended medium.
Pressure-sensitive adhesive
An adhesive system that is activated by slight pressure, as in applied by the fingertips,
and is not temperature-dependent.
Pressure-sensitive tape
See Tapes.
Primary support
See Support, primary.
 Primer
A coating put onto tape carrier material to enable an adhesive mass to stick to the
carrier.
Puncture
Structural damage to support and/or media. Punctures are generally caused by an
impact to the surface and may penetrate, causing a hole. See loss.

Q[edit | edit source]

R[edit | edit source]

Raking light
Light source positioned on one side of the support so that the light rakes across the
surface. This position creates strong shadows which accentuate textures and
deformation of plane. Raking light is distinguished from normal light.
Recto
The right hand side of a book opening. By extension, the front face of a sheet of paper.
The front face is also called the obverse.
Relative humidity
The amount of water vapor held by a volume of air relative to the maximum amount
which air at that temperature could hold. Expressed as a percentage of the actual water
vapor held divided by the maximum water vapor which could be held at that
temperature.
Repair
Various treatment techniques which restore structural stability and/or visual continuity
to a damaged support or media.
Residue
Remaining portion of a substance after a process, a by-product of a process, not
intended as part of the finished artifact. The residue is generally the remains of an
attachment that has been removed.
Resizing
Treatment technique in which a sizing material is restored to the support by means of
brushing, spraying, or immersion.
Retouch
See inpainting and retouching in the AIC Lexicon.
Retrogradation
A change of starch pastes from low to high consistency (...comprised...of viscosity,
plasticity, and other phenomena) on aging (Skeist 1977).
 Reverse v-
guard.
(Roberts and
Etherington)

Reversed v-
guard
“A folded guard … to which a section is sewn, the folds of the guard meeting in reverse.
The guard consists of several strips of paper folded with the two open ends being folded
back on the guard, either together or in opposite directions; the guard may be folded
over in one direction on itself and the section sewn at either end, or it may be folded
over in opposite directions on itself and one or two sections sewn to it, depending on
the thickness of the sections and amount of sewing swell required … Also called
‘meeting guard’” (Roberts and Etherington; see also continuous guard Roberts and
Etherington; and meeting guard Horton 2000, 24).

S[edit | e
dit
source]

Saprophyt
e (mold)
Any organism that lives on dead or decaying organic matter.
Scratch
Physical surface damage which is narrow and sharp-edged. Scratches often involve
a loss of support and/or media.
Scr
atc
hb
oar
d
A stiff drawing support which has a surface coating of white chalk-like ground, which is
covered partially or completely with India ink. The ground enables one to scratch the
inked surface, thereby revealing the contrasting color of the underlying layer.
S
e
c
o
n
d
a
r
y
 s
u
p
p
o
r
t
See Supports, secondary.
Sep
tu
m
(mo
ld)
(pl. septa) Partitions or cross-walls that divide each hypha into compartments. When the
hyphae age, septa are formed in increasing numbers. As portions of the hypha die, the
protoplasm is withdrawn toward the growing tip, and a septum that separates the dead
portion from the living is generally formed. Those septa that are associated with
changes in the concentration of the protoplasm as it moves from one part of the hypha
to another are known as "adventitious septa".
Sexual
reprod
uction
(mold)
In fungi as in other living organisms involves the union of two compatible nuclei. In the
more complex fungi, the processes of plasmogamy and karyogamy is sooner or later
followed by meiosis. The spores produced can often survive long periods of dormancy,
and are often referred to as "resting spores".
Silking
A form of overall repair and support formerly applied to paper artifacts, which consisted
of a layer of fine silk adhered with paste to the verso, and often the recto, of a paper
artifact. Because silk is less stable than paper, silking deteriorates faster than the
document it was intended to protect and it has been supplanted by other techniques.
Simple fold
A fold consisting of a single crease. Compare with cross fold. The orientation can be
either mountain fold and valley fold.
Size, sizing
A water-resistant material which is added to paper. Sizing may be added to the pulp
slurry during manufacture or as a coating after the sheet is formed. Sizing may also be
added in a conservation treatment step as a coating on the surface of paper. Sizing
inhibits the absorption of liquid into the fiber matrix, making the paper less susceptible
to moisture or the feathering of ink and aqueous media. Sizing substances include
gelatin, alum rosin, methyl cellulose, etc.
Skinning
A form of physical damage in which the surface of the paper in an area appears to have
lifted up in a continuous thin surface flap. Also see skinning in the AIC Lexicon.
Smudge
A streak or smear caused by movement of a friable medium or transfer of dirt
or grime from another surface or object, i.e. finger smudges. Smudges are generally
accidental in nature although they may be intentional. Also see smudge in the AIC
Lexicon.
Solids content
The percentage content of elastomer or synthetic polymer in an adhesive. Solids
content decreases with addition of fillers, pigments, tackifiers, and other additives.
Solubility
The tendency of aqueous or nonaqueous solvents to dissolve, soften, or swell a
substance. Solubility may be complete, as when salt crystals totally disappear into water,
or a matter of degree, in which less soluble materials are swelled or softened. Solubility
may be desirable in a treatment when a stain, degradation product, or adhesive needs
to be removed, but may be problematic when there is undesired vulnerability
of media, coatings, collection marks, annotations, etc. which can also be affected by the
solvents under consideration. For these reasons, solubility testing should be carried out
and documented prior to any solvent treatment.
Soma (mold)
The body of an organism as distinguished from its reproductive organs or reproductive
phase.
Somatic (mold
In plants, the vegetative phase, structure or function as distinguished from the
reproductive.
Split
Physical damage to the support caused by contraction of the support which is held
under restraint or when the support sheet ruptures along a previously weakened area
such as a fold. Splits usually have the soft-edged appearance of a tear. Also see split in
the AIC Lexicon.
Spore (mold)
A minute propagative unit (either sexual or asexual) capable of giving rise to a new
individual either immediately or after an interval of dormancy. The spore functions as a
seed, but differs from it in that a spore does not contain a preformed embryo.
Sporogenesis (
Reproduction by means of spores, the formation of spores.
Spot test
A small local test using water, solvents, or other materials being considered for use in
treatment, which are applied in inconspicuous places on the artifact to determine the
possible positive or negative effects on the paper, media, adhesives, etc. present in an
artifact.
Stain
A discoloration which lies in the fiber matrix of the support. Also see stain in the AIC
Lexicon.
 Staining on pape

Sterigma (mol
(pl. sterigmata) A small hyphal branch or structure, which supports a sporangium,
a conidium or a basidiospore.
Stub
“...a strip of paper or cloth tipped to the gutter edge of a leaf to match the thickness of a
flat object, such as a photo or map, mounted to the leaf. Several strips of stubbing may
be needed if the mounted object is thick” (Horton 2000, 26).
“1. That part of an original leaf which is left after most of it has been cut away from its
conjugate leaf. See also: Cancel. 2. A narrow strip of paper or linen sewn between
sections of a book for the purpose of attaching plates, maps, etc.” (Roberts and
Etherington).
See also “stub” in The Language of Bindings Thesaurus.
Substrate
Also called the adherend, the surface onto which tape is applied.
Superficial
Resting on the surface of the support or media, not imbedded.
Supports
Conservators distinguish between the sheet or surface which bears the image directly
(primary support), an additional sheet which may be adhered to that image-bearing
sheet (secondary support), and extra materials which lend further rigidity to the former
(auxiliary support). Every paper has a primary support but only some have secondary
supports or auxiliary supports.
Support, prima
The sheet or surface which bears the image directly, generally a sheet of paper for
prints, drawings, and manuscripts. The primary support may be a simple sheet of paper
or may be adhered to a secondary support, another sheet or surface, which gives
additional rigidity and support.
Support, secon
An additional material, often paper or fabric, adhered to the primary support which
gives additional rigidity and support, for example, a chine-collé print in which a small,
very thin paper is adhered onto a thicker, larger sheet, or a map or poster mounted
onto linen.
Support, auxil
Structural materials that lend rigidity and support to the primary support, the surface
which bears an image. Examples of auxiliary supports include stretchers,
strainers, mats, etc.
Surface cleani
See dry cleaning and surface cleaning in the AIC Lexicon.

T[edit | edit

Tack
The relative stickiness of an adhesive. The effectiveness of adhesive is evaluated by
measurable expression of the strength of the adherend /adhesion bond; tack is the
property measured in the assessment.
Tackifier
A material added to an adhesive system to control the stickiness of the adhesive. In
rubber-based adhesives, resins are nearly always used.
Tapa
A beaten sheet material resembling paper which is prepared from the inner bark of the
paper mulberry tree, according to methods developed by Pacific islanders.
Tapes
A variety of adhesive-coated materials manufactured in strips and often found on paper
art and artifacts as previously-applied mounting or repair materials. Typically, a tape
structure consists of a carrier strip of paper, cloth, or plastic, which has an adhesive
layer coated on it. Gummed tape has an adhesive that requires moistening to become
tacky. Pressure-sensitive tape has a natural or synthetic rubber-like adhesive which is
tacky at room temperature and requires only pressure to become adhered to a surface.
Tape, Adhesive
An adhesive film without a carrier layer, dispensed from a handheld "gun" which
transfers tacky adhesive from silicone release paper onto a surface.
Tape, archival
So-called "archival tape" varieties are formulated of adhesives which are more stable
than typical commercial tapes. Because they can be misused, they are not generally
recommended for application on paper art or artifacts.
Tape, cellopha
An early form of pressure-sensitive tape (see tapes), which had a carrier of cellophane,
a glossy plastic made of regenerated cellulose, and an unstable adhesive layer very
prone to causing oily discolored stains on paper and other surfaces.
Tape, double-s
A form of tape with a very thin carrier that is coated on both sides with pressure-
sensitive adhesive. See 3M 415 double- sided tape.
Tape, glassine
An early form of gummed repair tape (see tapes) with a carrier of glassine paper,
a glossy tan transparent paper.
Tape, linen
A form of cloth tape, typically a gummed tape (see tapes), though some pressure-
sensitive varieties are now available.
Tape, Magic (M

A form of tape
prone to discolo

Tape, masking
A form of pressure-sensitive tape (see tapes) with a tan crepe paper carrier. Designed
for temporary application, as in masking out areas prior to painting, so generally not
stable.
Tape, 3M type
A form of tape with a very thin carrier that is coated on both sides with a pressure-
sensitive adhesive. This adhesive tape has been specified as the recommended adhesive
for tape encapsulation.
Tear
Physical damage which results in a linear or branched separation of the support into
partially or completely separate pieces. The resulting edges along the separation have a
soft fibrous "feathered" edge, in distinction to a sharp cut edge. Also see tear in the AIC
Lexicon.

Tear on a 19th ce

Tenting
Upward lifting in a tent-like curvature of layers which have cleaved, often as a result of
shrinkage of the primary support.
Thallus (mold)
A relatively simple plant body devoid of stems, roots and leaves; in fungi,
the somatic phase.
Thermoplastic
A high polymer that softens when exposed to heat and returns to its original condition
when cooled to room temperature. Natural substances that exhibit this behavior are
crude rubber and a number of waxes; however, the term is usually applied to synthetics
such as polyvinyl chloride...linear polyethylene...and cellulosis and acrylic resin (Hawley
1977). See Adhesives: Acrylic Resin Dispersions.
Thinning, thin
A form of abrasion with marked loss of paper fibers, that makes the paper more
translucent to light in the affected area. May be associated with skinning.
Thixotropy
The ability of certain colloidal gels to liquefy when agitated (as by shaking or ultrasonic
vibration) and to return to the gel form when at rest (Hawley 1977).
Throw-up
The curving of the book spine when it is opened. Throw-up helps the leaves to lie flat
(Greenfield 1998).
Tideline
A stain which occurs when a liquid dries, depositing dissolved material at its perimeter.
A tideline is characterized by a discrete edge which is often darker than the remainder
of the associated stain. Also see tideline in the AIC Lexicon.

Tideline on pape

Transmitted li
Light source positioned beneath or behind the support so that the light shines through
the fiber matrix and media. This lighting position allows one to see the distribution and
density of paper fibers and media, watermarks, chain and laid lines (see laid paper), etc.

U[edit | edit

Undulation
Planar deformation consisting of soft, gradual distortions which are convex and concave
in appearance.
Ultraviolet (UV
A high energy portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, which lies above violet light in
the visible spectrum. Ultraviolet radiation is invisible to humans, hence is not correctly
called light. It is not necessary for vision and is capable of causing photochemical
degradation of many organic materials including cellulose, as well as causing fading of
dyes and pigments. For these reasons, ultraviolet radiation present in daylight or the
light produced by common light sources such as fluorescent tubes or halogen fixtures
should always be filtered to remove ultraviolet in order to prevent photochemical
damage and fading of art and artifacts exposed to light. Often abbreviated as UV. See
also fluorescence.

V[edit | edit

Verso
The left hand side of a book opening. By extension the back face of a sheet of paper.
The back face is also called the reverse.
Vulcanization
A chemical reaction in which the physical properties of rubber are changed in the
direction of decreased plastic flow, less surface tackiness, and increased tensile strength
by reacting it with sulfur or other suitable agents. ASTM (from Skeist 1973, 18).

W[edit | edi

Washing
A treatment step in which the paper artifact is immersed in or saturated with water in
an attempt to remove soluble degradation products or discoloration and to restore its
flexibility.
Watermark
A design created in paper made in a papermaking mold with wire shapes sewn onto its
surface. The design is visible in transmitted and/or raking light because paper fibers are
more thinly deposited in this area. Machine-made paper can be given an impression
resembling a watermark through use of a dandyroll in manufacturing. Chemical
watermarks are made by impregnating the manufactured paper support with a
transparentizing medium. Watermarks are useful in identifying the origin and age of
paper.
Wove paper
Paper which is manufactured (either by hand or by machine) on a screen or with an
even mesh. Paper fibers form an evenly distributed matrix of uniform thickness. The
sheet may exhibit a faint pattern similar to fabric which is due to the transfer of the
texture from the screen or web. Wove paper was introduced in the West around 1750.
Wrinkle
Sharp deformation of paper, angular and irregular appearance, often with broken
fibers.

X[edit | edit

Y[edit | edit
Z[edit | edit

Bibliogra

Angsüsser, Step

Brown, Barbara
Annual Meeting

Glaister, Geoffr

Greenfield, Jane

Hawley, Gessne

Horton, Richard
American Institu

Ligatus Langua

Roberts, Matt T
CoOL.

Skeist, Irving, ed

Wootton, Mary,
and Paper Grou

Further R

Brunner, Felix,

Goldman, Paul,

Ivins, William, 1

External

CAMEO: Conser
 Glossary on Pap

Ligatus Langua

Multilingual Bo

Multilingual Glo

Terminology fo

Translation of B

Visual Glossary

History o

In 2016, the BP
from Hinge, Tap
Conservation C

In 2021, terms d

Paper Conserv

The Written Do

Compilers: Holly Krueger, Sarah Melching, Kitty Nicholson

Contributors: Craigen W. Bowen, Irene Brückle, Jane Douglas, Robert Futernick,
Margaret Holben Ellis, Karen Garlick, Michelle Hamill, Claire Hoevel, Maria S. Holden,
Harold Holland, Jane E. Klinger, John Krill, Cella Manea, Sue Murphy, Maria Pukownick,
Pamela Y. Randolph, Nancy Carlson Schrock
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Holly Krueger,
Elizabeth Coombs Leslie, Catherine I. Maynor, Catherine (Kitty) Nicholson, Kimberly
Schenck, Ann Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone Wallis

The Adhesives c

Liaison: Catherine I. Maynor, Diane van der Reyden.

Compilers: Antoinette Dwan, Catherine Nicholson, Christine Smith with Sarah Bertalan,
Janet English, Kimberly Schenck, Linda Stiber, Sarah Wagner, Sylvia Rodgers Albro.
 Contributors: Cathy Baker, Dan Clement, Debora Mayer, Denise Thomas, Doris
Hamburg, Francis Prichett, Frank Mowery, Janet Ruggles, Jill Sterrett, John Krill, Katherine
Eirk, Lage Carlson, Lynne Gilliland, Martha M. Smith, Mary Baker, Paula Volent, T.K.
McClintock, Tim Vitale

Original Compilers: Elissa O'Loughlin, Linda Stiber

Contributors: Sylvia R. Albro, Nancy E. Ash, Susan Lee Bechtold, Fern Bleckner, Victoria
Blyth-Hill, Elizabeth Buschor, Susan Duhl, Katherine G. Eirk, Christa M. Gaehde, Lynn
Gilliland, Julie Goldman, Sherry Guild, Kendra Deerenee Lovette, Holly Maxson, Barbara
Meierjames/Husby, William D. Minter, Elizabeth Ann Morse, Kitty Nicholson, Leslie Hill
Paisley, Pamela Young Randolph, Elizabeth Kaiser Schulte, Martha-Lucia Sierra, Christine
Smith, Martha M. Smith, Karen L. Tidwell, Timothy J. Vitale, Judith C. Walsh, Marilyn
Kemp Weidner, Joan L. Weir, Elizabeth C. Wendelin, Anne Witty, Richard Wolbers, Faith
Zieske.
Special thanks to Marjorie Cleveland, Senior Technical Information Specialist,
Conservation Analytical Laboratory, Smithsonian Institution for her assistance in
database searches.
Editorial Board Liaison: Ann Seibert
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Catherine I. Maynor,
Kitty Nicholson, Kimberly Schenck, Arm Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone
Wallis

Compilers: Sarah Bertalan, Mary Wood Lee, Lois Olcott Price

Contributors: Mary-Lou Florian, Dr. Robert J. Koestler, Kitty Nicholson, Dr. Thomas A.
Parker, Ted Stanley, Hanna Szczepanowska, Sarah Wagner
Editorial Board Liaison: Sarah Bertalan
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Holly Krueger,
Elizabeth Coombs Leslie, Catherine I. Maynor, Kitty Nicholson, Kimberly Schenck, Ann
Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone Wallis

BPG Glossary of Terms

Main Catalogs Page > Materials and Treatment > Paper Conservation Catalog > BPG Glossary of Terms

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Traditional Chinese Translation (中文翻译)
Simplified Chinese Translation (中文翻译)

This page gathers the glossaries found in the Paper Conservation Wiki. Included are the
glossaries from Adhesives, Hinge, Tape, and Adhesive Removal, Mold, and Written
Documentation. Readers may also wish to consult AIC Wiki Lexicon, CAMEO, the Ligatus
Language of Bindings, or other external sources.

Wiki Contributors: Katherine Kelly, Densise Stockman, Rebecca Smyrl, your name could be here

Copyright 2023. The Book and Paper Group Wiki is a publication of the Book and Paper
Group of the American Institute for Conservation. It is published as a convenience for the
members of the Book and Paper Group. Publication does not endorse nor recommend any
treatments, methods, or techniques described herein. Information on researching with the wiki
and citing the BPG Wiki can be found on the Reference and Bibliography Protocols page. The
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BPG Glossary of Terms. 2021. Book and Paper Group Wiki. American Institute for Conservation
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Contents
 1 Glossary
o 1.1 A
o 1.2 B
o 1.3 C
o 1.4 D
o 1.5 E
o 1.6 F
o 1.7 G
o 1.8 H
o 1.9 I
o 1.10 J
o 1.11 K
o 1.12 L
 o 1.13 M
o 1.14 N
o 1.15 O
o 1.16 P
o 1.17 Q
o 1.18 R
o 1.19 S
o 1.20 T
o 1.21 U
o 1.22 V
o 1.23 W
o 1.24 X
o 1.25 Y
o 1.26 Z
 2 Bibliography
 3 Further Reading
 4 External Links
 5 History of This Page

Glossary[edit | edit source]

The glossary is written for book and paper conservators, related professionals, and other
persons who read written documentation created by conservators. The glossary's intent is to
define specialized terminology used in condition and treatment reports which is not defined in
general dictionaries, either adequately or at all. While a completely standardized vocabulary
does not yet exist in the field, this glossary is an attempt to gather terms in general use and
their meanings. Some terms are more widely used than others, and usage may vary according
to individual conservators. Not included in the glossary are terms describing artist's techniques
and media which have been well covered in a growing body of literature, such as How Prints
Look by William Ivins, A Handbook of Graphic Reproduction Processes by Felix Brunner, Looking at
Prints, Drawings and Watercolours by Paul Goldman, etc.

A[edit | edit source]

Abrasion
Damage caused by friction or rubbing action against the paper's surface by a hard,
rough or tacky material. May occur accidentally, inadvertently or deliberately, including
 as a result of cleaning. Surface appearance of abrasion ranges from matte areas, to
lifted fibers, to uneven and scratched areas. Also see abrasion in the AIC Lexicon.
Accretion
Foreign material attached to the paper support. In general, it is superficial and rests on
top of the substrate; rather than being imbedded. An accretion may cause staining or
planar deformation in the support. Examples include mold growth, food, or fecal matter
of insects or rodents. Also see accretion in the AIC Lexicon.
Acid-free
State of being neutral or alkaline in pH, often used to describe paper goods used to
house art or artifacts.
Acidic
Of or pertaining to a state in which pH is less than pH7. Pure cellulose is initially slightly
acidic, but on exposure to light, oxygen, pollutant gasses, and acidic materials in its
environment, its pH can drop lower and lower. As a result, the paper loses strength and
flexibility, and sometimes changes in color.

pH scale

Acidity
Chemical state characterized by a pH below pH7; where pH is a reciprocal logarithmic
measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions. Acids are chemical substances with a
pH below 7, which react with alkalis and can neutralize them. Acids in the presence of
moisture degrade paper by causing acid hydrolysis of the cellulose molecule, that is,
breaking up of the long cellulose polymer into shorter segments, resulting in paper
which is weak and brittle. Also see acidity in the AIC Lexicon.
Adherend
The surface/object onto which an adhesive is intended to stick.
Adhesive
1. A material which joins surfaces together by adhesive forces. Adhesives may consist of
starch, gums, proteins, rubber, shellac, or synthetics. Each type has different working
properties and chemical characteristics.
2. A substance capable of holding materials together by surface attachment. (Skeist
1977)
Alkaline, alkalinity
Chemical state characterized by a pH above pH7, where pH is a reciprocal logarithmic
measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions. Alkaline compounds such as calcium or
magnesium salts can protect the cellulose in paper from acid degradation by
neutralizing acidity. Alkaline solutions also swell cellulose which can aid in the release
of stains and discoloration. Very strong alkalis can degrade the cellulose polymer chain
by the peeling reaction. Some colorants are pH sensitive and change color or are
decolorized by alkalinity. Physical qualities and long-term strength of papers also
depend on the pH of the paper and the percent of alkaline reserve present. Also
see alkaline in the AIC Lexicon.
Alkaline reserve
Alkaline earth salts of calcium or magnesium, such as calcium or magnesium carbonate,
introduced into paper at its manufacture or in conservation treatment. Calcium and
magnesium carbonate are consumed in the process of neutralizing acidity. Their
presence assures paper longevity as long as there is an adequate unreacted reserve to
neutralize acidity in the future.
Animal glue
An impure, brown protein-based adhesive made from the hooves and cartilage of
animals.
Apron
“The extra amount of unprinted paper left to serve as the binding edge of a leaf which
folds out” (Roberts and Etherington). A full apron is an apron of extended length that
allows a foldout map to be fully visible when a book is closed. Note: The terms throw
out, full apron, and foldout have overlapping meanings in various glossaries.
Archicarp (mold)
The initial stage of fructification.
Asexual reproduction (mold)
Reproduction not involving karyogamy and meiosis. In general, asexual reproduction is
most important for the propagation of the species, because it results in the production
of many more individuals, and is repeated several times during a season, whereas
the sexual stage of many fungi is produced only once a year.
Atlas
A bound collection of tables, charts, plates, or maps. The topic is discussed more on the
wiki page for Atlases, Foldouts, and Guarded Structures.
Attachments
Integral items or materials (for example, labels, collage elements, etc.), which are
adhered locally to the primary support rather than overall.
Auxiliary Support
See Support, auxiliary.

B[edit | edit source]

Backing
Material(s) adhered to the back of the primary support. Attachment may be partial or
overall. Backings may or may not be original to the support.
Binder
The material which holds pigment particles or dye in a paint or other artist's medium
and which helps adhere it to the support. Also called medium.
Blanching
An area of binder which has developed an unintended white or whitish appearance,
possibly the result of exposure to moisture or fast-evaporating solvents which occasion
local chilling and condensation. Also called bloom, especially in referring to varnish. Also
see blanching in the AIC Lexicon.
Bleeding
Physical movement of non-fast colorants. Usually occurs in the presence of moisture
and results in a blurred or feathered appearance. Movement may occur laterally or
penetrate to the reverse, which is also called sinking. Also see bleeding in the AIC
Lexicon.
Blocking
1. Condition in which adjacent sheets of paper, e.g. book pages or a stack of sheets,
become unintentionally adhered, often because adhesive is present on one or more
sheets and has been subjected to pressure while the adhesive is tacky.
2. An undesired adhesion between touching layers of a material, such as occurs under
moderate pressure during storage or use ASTM from Skeist (1977).
Bloo
m
Opaque or cloudy white appearance on a transparent film of varnish or lacquer which
may be related to moisture absorbed in the film. Also see bloom in the AIC Lexicon.
B
o
n
d
s
t
r
e
n
g
t
h
An expression, usually in units, which relates relative strength of an adhesive/adhered
bond.
Br
ea
k(
s)
Scission of paper fibers due to physical weakness in the paper support; generally caused
by simple handling and flexing or repeated folding of a very brittle support, in
distinction to tears or cuts.
Buckli
ng
A random deformation in plane, usually concave and convex in appearance. See
also cockling.
Budding
(mold)
A form of asexual reproduction in which the somatic cells each bud, producing a new
individual.
Buffer
1. A solution of ions and acids or bases which is capable of maintaining a nearly
constant specific pH despite the addition of further acids or bases. In conservation, the
term buffered is sometimes used erroneously to refer to the alkaline reserve. It is
preferable to refer to the added substance as an alkaline reserve and avoid the use of
the word buffer in this context. Nonetheless, matboard and paper goods with an
alkaline reserve have a history of being called buffered paper or board.
2. The term buffer is also used in describing the effect of certain materials to lessen the
shock of sudden change. In discussing environmental conditions for artwork, packaging
or housing can be designed and constructed to buffer sudden changes of
temperature, relative humidity or shock.
Bulge
A planar distortion or protuberance characterized by a distinct convex formation.
Burn
Darkening, scorching, embrittlement or destruction caused by heat, fire or certain
chemical reactions.
Burnished
Surface area rubbed or polished yielding a shiny and /or smooth appearance.
Burnishing may occur accidentally or deliberately. Also see burnishing in the AIC
Lexicon.

C[edit | edit

Calender
Manufacturing process of pressing paper or cloth between a set of polished metal
rollers in order to give it a very smooth, polished surface. Also see calendered in the AIC
Lexicon.
Card
A medium weight, stiff paper support which generally has a smooth, polished surface
due to a manufacturing process known as calendaring.
Cellulose
A long-chain carbohydrate polymer found in the walls of plant cells. It is the primary
constituent of paper.
Cleavage
Separation or splitting between layers of media, for example, cleavage of paint from
a support. See also flaking and cleavage in the AIC Lexicon.
Coating
1. A material applied to the surface of paper during its manufacture which affects its
surface characteristics and enhances its working properties.
2. Application of a material to paper support and/or media for various treatment
purposes, such as consolidation, fixing, sizing or varnishing.
3. Application of a material to the paper support and/ or media, at the time the object is
produced or at a later date in order to manipulate the visual or working properties of
the support or media.

Example of cockl

Cockling
Deformation of a planar support, generally paper, characterized by multiple alternate
concave and convex distortions or ripples, often in parallel ridges. Also see cockling in
the AIC Lexicon.
Cohesion
The ability of a material to stay united with itself under stress.
Collector's ma
An identifying mark, generally a relatively small stamp - inked, embossed or perforated -
or a marking applied by some other means, which denotes ownership or provenance.
Colloid, protec
Any surface-active substance that prevents the dispersed phase of a suspension from
coalescing by forming a thin layer on the surface of each particle(Hawley 1977).
Colony (mold)
A group of individuals of the same species, living in close association; in fungi, refers to
the many hyphae growing out of a single spore and usually forming a round or
globose thallus.
Compensation
A restoration technique in which losses to the support and/or media are replaced
partially or completely, to provide visual continuity and in some cases to enhance
structural support. Also see compensation in the AIC Lexicon.
Compensation
Material added in the gutter of a bound volume to compensate for the thickness of
bulky material positioned towards the fore edge. Also called compensation
guards (Roberts and Etherington) or compensating guards (The Language of Bindings
Thesaurus). Simple strips of board or paper are sometimes called compensation
stubs (Wootton, Boone, and Robb 2000; and Brown 2000).
Composite atla
A collection of previously issued maps from various sources, gathered together into a
binding. Also called atlas factice, Lafreri atlas, or Italian assembled-to-order (IATO)
atlases. The last term was “coined by George H. Beans to describe the sixteenth-century
Italian atlases assembled for clients by map publishers from a stock of separately
published maps” (Woodward 1982). Composite atlas is the Library of Congress
Genre/Form Term.
Conidiophore
A simple or branched hypha arising from a somatic hypha and bearing at its tip or side
one or more conidiogenous cells.
Conidium (mo
(pl. conidia) A non-motile air-borne asexual spore usually formed at the tip or side of a
sporogenous (spore producing) cell.
Consolidation
Reattachment or securing of media which is flaking, cracking and /or friable, by
introduction of adhesive or by application of heat, solvent, pressure, and/or adhesive.
Contact adhes
Examples of these are contact cements used to laminate materials such as plywood and
phenolic resin plastics (Formica) in the building trades.
Crack
Physical separation or break within one or more layers of a material, often the result of
mechanical stress or contraction on drying. Also see crack in the AIC Lexicon.

A crease in paper

Crease
A line, mark or ridge of paper caused by folding or crushing. Also see crease in the AIC
Lexicon.
Creep, cold flo
The ability of a material to move under ambient conditions. This property is related
to glass transition temperature (Tg).
Cross fold
Two folds which intersect, generally at right angles (Angsüsser 2013). Also called a right
angle fold in the paper industry. A French fold refers to a single sheet of paper folded
into fourths using a cross fold.
Cryptogamic (m
A plant that bears no flowers or seeds but propagates by means of spores.
Cut
A sharp-edged break in the paper support, caused by a sharp instrument or object.

D[edit | edit

Darkening
A shift in color which is darker than the original appearance. May occur as a result of
contact with poor quality materials and/or exposure to adverse environmental
conditions. The appearance of darkening may be partial or overall.

Drawing with lea

Deacidification
A general term used to describe treatment steps taken to raise the pH of acidic paper to
pH7 (neutral pH) and to pH higher than 7 (alkaline pH). It can be accomplished by
immersion in or by spraying with an aqueous or nonaqueous alkaline solution or
suspension, or by deposition of an alkaline earth salt on materials in a vacuum
chamber. If deacidification is accomplished by immersion in an alkaline solution, it may
also be accompanied by removal of soluble acidity, degradation products,
and discoloration. Also called neutralization and alkalization. See also acidity, alkalinity,
and deacidification in the AIC Lexicon.
Deckle edge
A thinner, uneven accumulation of paper fibers at the edge of a paper sheet. It occurs
because relatively less paper fiber is deposited along the deckle of the papermaking
mold during the manufacture of handmade paper. An imitation deckle edge may be
artificially created on machine made paper.
Degradation, b
Deterioration caused by biological factors such as mold, insects, rodents, etc.
Degradation, c
Deterioration resulting from reaction between primary support and/or media and other
chemical species such as atmospheric pollutants, residues from manufacture and poor
quality materials.
 Degradation, p
Deterioration caused by physical factors such as wear and tear, use, handling,
movement, etc.
Deionized wat
A type of purified water which has had ions of dissolved chemicals removed by being
passed through one or more deionizing columns, filled with compounds which remove
the ions into which soluble chemicals disassociate when they dissolve in water.
Deionizing columns do not remove solid particles, so particulate filters are needed as
well. Most ions removed are harmful to paper, such as iron and copper ions. Deionizing
columns also remove calcium, a beneficial ion, which is sometimes added to deionized
water for its beneficial effects. Deionized water is not sterile, in contrast to freshly
distilled water. See also distilled water and deionized water in the AIC Lexicon.
Delaminate
Lateral separation of a once continuous support or surface into constituent layers. Also
see delaminating in the AIC Lexicon.
Desiccated
State characterized by near or total loss of moisture content.
Destructive an
A type of analysis in which a sample of material is consumed during testing.
Diffuse
Characterizes a stain which is without distinct edges or boundaries.
Dimensions
The size of an object, customarily recorded in the order of height, width, depth.
Generally, maximum dimensions are given if portions are missing or support is
irregular, identifying where measurements were made.
Dimpling
Slight indentations in a paper support. Dimpling often occurs when the primary
support is partially affixed to a secondary support.
Discoloration
1. A change or shift from the original color. Also see discoloration in the AIC Lexicon.
2. The chemical or degradation byproduct in the paper which causes the color change.
Discrete
Characterizes a stain which has a distinct edge or boundary.
Distilled water
Water which has been purified by distillation, a process in which water is heated to
boiling, the resulting water vapors are carried through a distillation column where the
vapors cool, condense and are collected. In distillation, dissolved ions and particulates
are both left behind. Freshly distilled water is sterile. Also see distilled water in the AIC
Lexicon.
Distortion
A deformation in the plane of the support and/or media. Also see distortion in the AIC
Lexicon.
Dog-eared
Crease caused by a single or numerous folds in the corners of paper support.
 Draw
Planar distortion usually located in the corners of support. Distortion is characterized by
soft undulations resulting from tipped corners onto a secondary support. This manner
of attachment prevents free expansion and contraction of the primary support in
response to fluctuations in relative humidity.
Dry cleaning
Removal of unimbedded or superficial dirt and grime by eraser cleaning techniques, as
opposed to aqueous or solvent treatments. Erasers which might be employed include
vinyl (grated or solid), kneaded, rubber or gum. Dry cleaning may also be performed
with a brush, cloth or blower. Also called surface cleaning. Also see dry cleaning in
the AIC Lexicon.

E[edit | edit

Efflorescence
Dissolution, outward migration and precipitation of salts from within a material. These
salts are visible on a surface as small crystals or white powdery or crusty deposits. Also
see efflorescence in the AIC Lexicon.
Elastomer
A material which can deform at room temperature and reform under the same
condition with no change in its properties.
Embrittlement
Very low folding strength or tendency to break when folded, associated with adverse
effects of acids, oxygen, light, heat and residual chemicals from the original
manufacture of the paper or after manufacture. See
also desiccated and embrittlement in the AIC Lexicon..
Encapsulate
To create an enclosure with sealed edges around a paper sheet using two pieces of
an auxiliary support, which is generally transparent. The durable, flexible, and very
permanent plastic film called polyethylene polyester terephthalate, better known in the
U.S. by the brand name Du-Pont Mylar Type D, is currently the preferred auxiliary
material for paper objects. The edges may be joined or sealed by heat, ultrasound, 3M
415 double-sided tape, or by machine sewing. Also see encapsulting in the AIC Lexicon.
Enzyme
A complex protein produced by living organisms that acts as a catalyst in specific
chemical reactions, by inducing or speeding such reactions as breaking down and
solubilizing starch (amylase), protein (protease), or fat (lipase), etc. Enzymes catalyze but
are not consumed in the reaction, so very small amounts are necessary. Enzymes
generally require moisture to be active, and, in theory, residual enzyme can be
reactivated if moisture is supplied. Therefore, after an enzyme treatment step, a
thorough rinsing is advised whenever possible and a deactivation step may also be
advised in which any remaining enzyme protein is denatured by solvent, heat, etc.
Eukaryotic (mo
Any organism or cell with a structurally discrete nucleus.
 Extender
In adhesive use, a material used to increase the volume of an adhesive. Calcium
carbonate, hydrated alumina are examples.

Shifts of color in pigments or dyes, generally resulting from exposure to light, but
occasionally from changes in pH or exposure to chemicals or pollutants. Also
see fading in the AIC Lexicon.

A margin which has been adhered to the edges of the primary support. The margin may
consist of individual strips of paper or a single sheet of paper in which the center area
has been removed thereby framing the primary support.

See bleeding.

A technique employed to replace a loss. Fills range from an insert of a like and stable
paper, a pulp fill, or simply provided by lining. Fills may be considered stabilizing and/or
restorative.

A form of asexual reproduction involving the fission of somatic cells into daughter cells,
each growing into a new individual.

A coating applied to protect a soluble or friable medium while undertaking other

treatment procedures. The fixative coating prevents bleeding or transfer of the medium.

Lifting and detaching of clusters of pigment and binder which occurs when
a medium loses its binding properties or when it has undergone physical stress. Flaking
often results in losses. Also see flaking in the AIC Lexicon.

The emission of radiation, generally as visible light, during exposure to a source of

radiation of a different wavelength, such as an ultraviolet lamp. Also, the radiation so
emitted. In conservation examination, the ultraviolet lamp, also called a black lamp, is
used to look for the characteristic fluorescence of iron and iron gall ink (actually black
absorption), oils, varnishes, protein glues, and sizes, certain pigments or
dyes, mold growth and foxing.

A dark brown or black accretion of fecal matter produced by insects. Flyspecks appear a
small, round, convex droppings; they are often found in clusters. The material is
quite acidic and damage caused by staining and deterioration of the support is often
irreversible.

In which one part of the paper support is laid over onto itself. Creasing may or may not
accompany a fold.

“Inserts that are larger than the trim size of the book or other publication and which
must be folded before insertion” (Roberts and Etherington).

An imperial measurement of the intensity of light, based on the light of one candle at a
distance of one foot. Used to express recommended light levels for light-
sensitive media and paper, often in the range of 5 to 10 footcandles. See also lux.

Reddish-brown spots associated with mold growth or metallic specks. Foxing can vary in
size and maybe round, diffuse, or discrete spots. Sometimes the centers of foxing are
darker than surrounding areas. Under ultraviolet examination areas of mold
growth fluoresce brightly, while iron-rich spots and specks absorb ultraviolet without
fluorescence and appear black. Also see foxing in the AIC Lexicon.

A form of asexual reproduction that involves the fragmentation of the soma, each
fragment growing into a new individual.
Chewed material dropped by feeding animals or insects. Also see frass in the AIC
Lexicon.

Nature of a material characterized by a loosely bound powdery state. Some media are
friable by nature including fabricated and natural chalks and charcoal. Friable states
may result from deterioration or desiccation of binder. Also
see powdering and friability in the AIC Lexicon.

Any complex fungal structure that contains or bears spores.

(pl. gametes) A differentiated (male or female) reproductive cell, capable of uniting with
another gamete to form a zygote that develops into a new individual.

A semisolid system consisting of a network of solid aggregates in which liquid is

held (Skeist 1977).

The temperature at which an amorphous material (such as glass or a high polymer)

changes from a brittle, vitreous state to a plastic state. Many high polymers, such as the
acrylics and their derivatives, have this transition point, which is related to the number
of carbon atoms in the ester group (Hawley 1977).

Protective transparent material used in framing, such as glass, polycarbonate and acrylic
sheeting.

Surface quality of being very smooth, shiny and reflecting light.

Physical damage to support and/or media appearing as a discrete concave distortion,

generally accompanied by a spot or linear disruption of the surface. Often the result of
sudden impact on a surface, such as with a tool or broken glass. Also see gouge in
the AIC Lexicon.

A substance which is oily in composition and can penetrate, stain and/or visually
disfigure the support and/or media on contact.

Dirt of a greasy nature. It may be imbedded or superficial. Also see grime in the AIC
Lexicon.

“A strip of cloth or paper on which an illustration, map, etc., may be attached and sewn
through with the section, thus allowing free flexing" (Roberts and Etherington). Ligatus
distinguishes between leaf guards for single leaves or bifolios, and extension
guards for foldouts. Also called a conjugate guard (Woodward 1982).

"Plates which are inserted into a book without being tipped to one of the leaves of the
book. The paper area of the plate is wider than the leaves of the book, the projecting
part being wrapped around the fold of the section. A narrow strip of paper appears
elsewhere in the book as a consequence" (Roberts and Etherington). Could also be
called sewn in.

"A method of securing two plates to one guard. While the positioning of the guard
within the section may or may not allow for either or both sides to be located near the
accompanying text material, guarding in this manner may help alleviate some of the
swelling caused by the thickness of the material used for the guards" (Roberts and
Etherington).

A natural secretion from certain plants with adhesive properties. Gums are used
as binders and adhesives.

Small creases, often arc-shaped, in a paper support usually resulting from careless
handling practices.

Paper made in the traditional technique, in which a vatman dips a papermaking mold
into a vat of paper pulp, catching a fiber slurry which drains to create a mat of
intertwined fibers. These fibers, on drying, form a sheet of handmade paper.

A thin tissue paper coated with an adhesive layer which becomes tacky when heated, for
example with a handheld tacking iron, and is adhered with light pressure. Developed as
an alternative to traditional paper mending techniques. Its use was popularized at the
Library of Congress. Their original formulation recommended Barcham Green lens
tissue, with a coating of acrylic dispersions Rhoplex AC-73 and Plextol B-500. The paper
and adhesives in the Library of Congress formulation are stable and generally easily
reversible. Also called Library of Congress heat-set tissue.

A folded piece of paper, Japanese paper, linen tape, etc., used to attach a paper artifact
to a mount or mat, in such a way that a portion of the hinge is adhered to the back edge
of the artifact, while the remaining portion of the hinge is adhered to the surface of a
mount or mat. This attachment system can provide good structural support, yet allows
safe, ready access to the attachment when it is desired to remove the artifact.

See Loss.
The formation of a fold at the spine edge of a leaf to allow the leaf to be sewn into the
binding (Glaister 1979 233). (Definition is analogous to “hook-type endleaves” in The
Language of Bindings Thesaurus). This is called a returning guard in Brown 2000.

Treatment procedure in which moisture is introduced either as a liquid mist or spray or

as water vapor to expand the fiber matrix of the paper support and to allow the release
and reforming of hydrogen bonds in the paper support, thus permitting realignment of
fibers.

A colorless, transparent, hyphae.

(pl. hyphae) The unit of structure of most fungi; a tubular filament.

Physical state of a foreign material being irreversibly ground into the support. The
material may be intended or unintended.

The asexual (usually conidial) stage of a fungus.

Light falling onto a surface.

Foreign material included within a paper support or other support layer, generally
added inadvertently in manufacture.

The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum which lies below or beneath visible red,
which is invisible and which results in heating when it is absorbed by surfaces.
Generally, infrared radiation is not useful for visibility and its heating effects are not
generally desirable. Infrared examination, however, can be part of a conservation
examination in which a carbon-based underdrawing is suspected but concealed by
heavy layers of paint. As a longwave radiation, infrared is better able to penetrate
visually opaque paint layers. When it strikes underlying carbon-based drawing, the
infrared is absorbed, while it is reflected back by underlying white ground. This
differential absorption/reflection can be seen on a vidicon screen and captured by
camera, to reveal carbon underdrawings.

A restoration technique in which areas of loss in the media and in some cases in
the support are compensated to provide visual continuity. Various artist's media may be
employed. Also see inpainting in the AIC Lexicon.

Information bearing marks or writing which are considered original to the object or
which have been added over time.
Physical damage to support and/or media as a result of destructive contact with insects.
Damage may appear as surface thinning, losses, or as accretions, such as flyspecks.

A technique used to fill a loss in a paper support, in which a similar weight paper or
paper laminate is physically shaped to the contours of a loss, often with a bevel or shelf
margin that slightly overlaps the edges of the original thus permitting
strong adhesive attachment to the original. Occasionally, inserts are not adhered to the
original, but instead attached to a mat backboard directly behind the loss.

A paper support made by traditional Japanese hand papermaking techniques (or by

machine in some cases), using traditional Japanese papermaking fibers of kozo (paper
mulberry), mitsumata, or gampi. Japanese paper is very strong (has a high tear strength)
even in thin weights, because of the very long fibers used to make the paper stock. It
generally retains its strength on aging. Japanese paper may be encountered as
the primary support, in Eastern or Western art, or as a conservation material. Japanese
paper is valued in conservation treatments because its thinness and translucency make
it less obtrusive, while its strength and stability on aging lend long-term support to the
original.

Sexual reproduction through the fusion of two nuclei.

See loss.

Paper which is characterized by a grid-like variation in thickness apparent in

both raking and transmitted light. The grid consists of chain and laid lines. Chain lines
are spaced further apart than laid lines. Laid lines are very close together and run
perpendicular to the chain lines. True laid paper is hand made, though machine made
paper can be given an impression resembling chain and laid lines through use of a
dandyroll in manufacturing. The texture of Western papers is created by the closely
spaced copper wires of the papermaking mold surface, while the chain lines result from
the fine wire stitching that holds the surface flat. The distribution of paper fibers is
thinnest where the laid and chain lines intersect.
A layered structure of parallel sheets of various materials, fused or adhered together
into one entity. In paper conservation, laminates may refer to layered paper as found in
board construction or used to make paper inserts.

A reinforcement technique used on paper artifacts, in which one or more layers of

transparent material, generally a plastic, are applied overall to the recto and/or verso of
the paper artifact. The lamination may be accomplished through the use of plastics and
a proprietary adhesive or through thermoplastic materials, such as cellulose acetate,
which fuse with heat. Cellulose acetate lamination was introduced in the 1930's by
William Barrow. Most examples encountered in the U.S. are cellulose acetate
lamination, though other plastics have been used elsewhere. Cellulose acetate
laminations can degrade, showing contraction of the plastic film, generally accompanied
by a pungent odor of vinegar. Lamination alters the surface appearance of the paper
artifact. Laminations are generally difficult to reverse, requiring strong solvents and/or
heat, which may endanger the paper artifact. Newer techniques such as
polyester encapsulation and Japanese linings accomplish some of the goals of
lamination and are easy to reverse. For these reasons, lamination as defined above has
fallen into disuse and disfavor. However, under certain circumstances such as extreme
fire damage, modern laminating techniques using a thermoplastic adhesive and tissue
lamination may be considered an option.

A printing method in which dies with individual raised letters are set in sequence in a
chase. When paper is placed over the inked form and run through a press, ink transfers
to the paper, and an inked impression of the letters is made in the paper. Letterpress
printing is characterized by recessed inked letters on the recto, and on the verso the
impressions if still intact can be felt and seen easily.

Reduction of stability of paper support and media caused by (long term or high
intensity) exposure to light and ultraviolet radiation. Wavelengths in the ultraviolet
region of the electromagnetic spectrum are considered most harmful to paper, however
all wavelengths of light are damaging. Light damage is cumulative and its effects may
continue in the dark, after intermittent exposure.

Polymer which binds together the long cellulose molecules in woody plants. When the
plant structure is disrupted in papermaking, lignin becomes unstable, especially on
exposure to light or pollutants. Paper and paperboards containing lignin discolor and
become increasingly acidic as they age.
“A method of accommodating a [foldout] that is longer than the trimmed height of the
book. A portion of a leaf to be folded adjacent to the gutter margin is cut away, i.e.,
lipped, so that the remaining portion may be folded without buckling and creasing the
binding margin” (Roberts and Etherington). Glaister calls this nibbed (1979, 343). This
cutting away is discussed in bookbinding manuals (Pleger 1915, 41-43).

Describes a stain caused by water or moisture. A liquid stain is often characterized by a

tideline. See also tideline.

Area of the support and/or media which is physically detached or missing. Also
see loss in the AIC Lexicon.

A metric measurement of light which is approximately 10 times greater than a

footcandle, resulting in recommended light ranges of 50 to 100 lux. See footcandle.
 As recommended for conservation purposes, a type of protective rigid enclosure for a
paper artifact, which is made from a relatively rigid paper board called matboard. While
a number of mat structures are possible, the most common structure has two pieces, a
front window mat, which has a "window" or opening cut to make the paper artifact
visible, and a back board, a solid piece of mat-board the same outer dimensions as the
window mat. Generally the window mat is attached to the back matboard with a
folded hinge of linen tape applied along the length of one entire side, so that the mat
can be readily opened. A mat is always supposed to be larger in length and width than
the paper artifact enclosed within it, so that it can protect all edges of the paper.
Similarly, the thickness of the window mat is to be greater than the maximum thickness
or most protruding part of the artifact, so that the surface of the artifact is also entirely
protected from contact or damage. Matboard comes in varying thickness. Four-ply
board is most commonly used to make mats, though two-ply is handy for mounts to
insert in a window mat, and eight or more plies may be needed to create a window mat
that is thicker than a thick or undulating support. Typically a paper artifact is attached to
a mat by hinges, though folded corners of paper or polyester may be placed over the
corners of the artifact and attached to the mat as well.

m http://www.aiccm.org.au/visual-glossary/mat-burn

A brown line of staining on the support within the aperture of a mat window opening
cut from mat board containing lignin. The staining results from the migration
of acidic components in the mat board. Also called mat stain. Also see mat burn in
the AIC Lexicon.

Surface appearance which has no shine, reflectiveness or gloss.

1. Material(s) which comprise the image bearing components of the object.

2. The binder which holds together pigments in a material used to make images.
 Sexual reproduction through a series of two nuclear divisions in which the number of
chromosomes is reduced by half.

A technique used to provide physical stability to a tear or otherwise vulnerable site,

generally consisting of a thin reinforcing repair paper and an adhesive to attach it
securely to the paper artifact.

A surface growth of fungus which may have varying color, shape and configuration. It
generally proliferates in damp conditions (60% relative humidity or greater) where there
is little air circulation. Damage caused by mold includes staining and loss of strength.
Also see mold in the AIC Lexicon.

rvington History Center.

The branch of biology that deals with the form and structure of plants and animals.

Capable of or exhibiting spontaneous motion.

Uneven and diffused discoloration which may appear on both support and media.

Auxiliary support to which the primary support is partially affixed for storage and
exhibition purposes. A window mat may be attached to the mount. It is also the term
used in England for mat.

(pl. mycelia) Mass of hyphae which make up the fungal thallus.

 A smooth, lightweight paper made from unpurified wood pulp fiber stock. Newsprint
is acidic and high in lignin. These components contribute to its physical instability and
predisposition to darkening with the simple passage of time, and especially when
exposed to light and pollutants.

A liquid solvent-based system used in treatment in which water is not present.

sis
A type of analysis during which a sample is not consumed during testing.
Nondestructive analysis includes testing in which a sample is removed from the artifact
but is not consumed (so that it can be returned to the artifact or used for other
analysis), as well as analysis done in situ, without sampling, such as some types of x-ray
fluorescence analysis.

Light which strikes a surface perpendicularly, e.g. at a 90 degree angle to the surface.

t source]

A mirror image of a paper artifact created by transfer of media or binder to an adjacent

sheet of paper, glass, board or plastic film, or by chemical migration of constituents in
the paper or medium, such as oil in printer's ink or lignin derived staining.

edit source]

A support, generally flexible, made from a liquid suspension of beaten plant fibers
deposited on a surface. The primary constituent is cellulose. Paper characteristics vary
depending on the quality and chemical stability of fibers and additives and procedures
employed in the manufacture.
us
Support made from overlapped parallel strips of reed plant stalks.
rasite (mold)
A plant or animal that lives on or in an organism of another species.
Parchment/vellum

Support made from one of a variety of animal skins, which have been dehaired, soaked in lime, stretched,
scraped, and allowed to dry under tension.

Paste
A type of adhesive prepared by cooking starch in water until it forms a thick translucent
white suspension. When prepared from purified water and when free of additives, paste
has excellent aging properties and can be easily reversed.
Pasteboard
 Semi-rigid support consisting of several sheets of paper pasted or adhered together.
Perfect stage (mold)
The sexual stage of a fungus.
Pigment
A finely-divided colorant, which may be derived from a wide variety of substances,
organic and inorganic, natural and artificial. Pigments are insoluble in the binder in
which they are used, distinguishing them from dyes which are coloring matter that form
solutions.
Pith
A smooth white paper-like support which is cut in a spiral from the soft, spongy tissue
found in the center of certain plants. Found in Western collections as the support for
souvenir depictions of Chinese life. Also called, erroneously, rice paper.
Plasmogamy (mold)
A union of two protoplasts bringing the nuclei close together within the same cell. The
first stage in sexual reproduction in fungi.
Plasticizer
A liquid or soft solid at room temperature that makes the elastomer softer and more
conformable to the surface to which the adhesive is applied.
Platemark
The concave impression made in a paper support by a printing plate as it is run through
a printing press. Usually, printing plates have been copper or zinc plates, of square or
rectangular shape with beveled edges to prevent abrupt edges cutting through the
paper. No platemark will be created if the paper support is smaller than the plate.
Poultice
A malleable mass or material which absorbs water or other solvents and can be applied
to an artifact surface, so as slowly to release solvent and/or to absorb solvent and
matter dissolved in it. Poultices can be applied to hold water, solvents, or solutions in
intimate contact with a surface so as to soften accretions or adhesive. In addition,
poultices can function as absorbers of matter dissolved in a solvent, drawing out soluble
matter from a surface by virtue of capillarity. Also see poulticing in the AIC Lexicon.
Powdering
Physical state characterized by a loosely bound material. May be used in describing the
inherent properties of a media (see friable) or to describe the appearance of a condition
or damage.
Prepared paper
The surface of a paper support which has been covered with an application of a
pigmented chalk ground or coating, to prepare it to receive the intended medium.
Pressure-sensitive adhesive
An adhesive system that is activated by slight pressure, as in applied by the fingertips,
and is not temperature-dependent.
Pressure-sensitive tape
See Tapes.
Primary support
See Support, primary.
 Primer
A coating put onto tape carrier material to enable an adhesive mass to stick to the
carrier.
Puncture
Structural damage to support and/or media. Punctures are generally caused by an
impact to the surface and may penetrate, causing a hole. See loss.

Q[edit | edit source]

R[edit | edit source]

Raking light
Light source positioned on one side of the support so that the light rakes across the
surface. This position creates strong shadows which accentuate textures and
deformation of plane. Raking light is distinguished from normal light.
Recto
The right hand side of a book opening. By extension, the front face of a sheet of paper.
The front face is also called the obverse.
Relative humidity
The amount of water vapor held by a volume of air relative to the maximum amount
which air at that temperature could hold. Expressed as a percentage of the actual water
vapor held divided by the maximum water vapor which could be held at that
temperature.
Repair
Various treatment techniques which restore structural stability and/or visual continuity
to a damaged support or media.
Residue
Remaining portion of a substance after a process, a by-product of a process, not
intended as part of the finished artifact. The residue is generally the remains of an
attachment that has been removed.
Resizing
Treatment technique in which a sizing material is restored to the support by means of
brushing, spraying, or immersion.
Retouch
See inpainting and retouching in the AIC Lexicon.
Retrogradation
A change of starch pastes from low to high consistency (...comprised...of viscosity,
plasticity, and other phenomena) on aging (Skeist 1977).
 Reverse v-
guard.
(Roberts and
Etherington)

Reversed v-
guard
“A folded guard … to which a section is sewn, the folds of the guard meeting in reverse.
The guard consists of several strips of paper folded with the two open ends being folded
back on the guard, either together or in opposite directions; the guard may be folded
over in one direction on itself and the section sewn at either end, or it may be folded
over in opposite directions on itself and one or two sections sewn to it, depending on
the thickness of the sections and amount of sewing swell required … Also called
‘meeting guard’” (Roberts and Etherington; see also continuous guard Roberts and
Etherington; and meeting guard Horton 2000, 24).

S[edit | e
dit
source]

Saprophyt
e (mold)
Any organism that lives on dead or decaying organic matter.
Scratch
Physical surface damage which is narrow and sharp-edged. Scratches often involve
a loss of support and/or media.
Scr
atc
hb
oar
d
A stiff drawing support which has a surface coating of white chalk-like ground, which is
covered partially or completely with India ink. The ground enables one to scratch the
inked surface, thereby revealing the contrasting color of the underlying layer.
S
e
c
o
n
d
a
r
y
 s
u
p
p
o
r
t
See Supports, secondary.
Sep
tu
m
(mo
ld)
(pl. septa) Partitions or cross-walls that divide each hypha into compartments. When the
hyphae age, septa are formed in increasing numbers. As portions of the hypha die, the
protoplasm is withdrawn toward the growing tip, and a septum that separates the dead
portion from the living is generally formed. Those septa that are associated with
changes in the concentration of the protoplasm as it moves from one part of the hypha
to another are known as "adventitious septa".
Sexual
reprod
uction
(mold)
In fungi as in other living organisms involves the union of two compatible nuclei. In the
more complex fungi, the processes of plasmogamy and karyogamy is sooner or later
followed by meiosis. The spores produced can often survive long periods of dormancy,
and are often referred to as "resting spores".
Silking
A form of overall repair and support formerly applied to paper artifacts, which consisted
of a layer of fine silk adhered with paste to the verso, and often the recto, of a paper
artifact. Because silk is less stable than paper, silking deteriorates faster than the
document it was intended to protect and it has been supplanted by other techniques.
Simple fold
A fold consisting of a single crease. Compare with cross fold. The orientation can be
either mountain fold and valley fold.
Size, sizing
A water-resistant material which is added to paper. Sizing may be added to the pulp
slurry during manufacture or as a coating after the sheet is formed. Sizing may also be
added in a conservation treatment step as a coating on the surface of paper. Sizing
inhibits the absorption of liquid into the fiber matrix, making the paper less susceptible
to moisture or the feathering of ink and aqueous media. Sizing substances include
gelatin, alum rosin, methyl cellulose, etc.
Skinning
A form of physical damage in which the surface of the paper in an area appears to have
lifted up in a continuous thin surface flap. Also see skinning in the AIC Lexicon.
Smudge
A streak or smear caused by movement of a friable medium or transfer of dirt
or grime from another surface or object, i.e. finger smudges. Smudges are generally
accidental in nature although they may be intentional. Also see smudge in the AIC
Lexicon.
Solids content
The percentage content of elastomer or synthetic polymer in an adhesive. Solids
content decreases with addition of fillers, pigments, tackifiers, and other additives.
Solubility
The tendency of aqueous or nonaqueous solvents to dissolve, soften, or swell a
substance. Solubility may be complete, as when salt crystals totally disappear into water,
or a matter of degree, in which less soluble materials are swelled or softened. Solubility
may be desirable in a treatment when a stain, degradation product, or adhesive needs
to be removed, but may be problematic when there is undesired vulnerability
of media, coatings, collection marks, annotations, etc. which can also be affected by the
solvents under consideration. For these reasons, solubility testing should be carried out
and documented prior to any solvent treatment.
Soma (mold)
The body of an organism as distinguished from its reproductive organs or reproductive
phase.
Somatic (mold
In plants, the vegetative phase, structure or function as distinguished from the
reproductive.
Split
Physical damage to the support caused by contraction of the support which is held
under restraint or when the support sheet ruptures along a previously weakened area
such as a fold. Splits usually have the soft-edged appearance of a tear. Also see split in
the AIC Lexicon.
Spore (mold)
A minute propagative unit (either sexual or asexual) capable of giving rise to a new
individual either immediately or after an interval of dormancy. The spore functions as a
seed, but differs from it in that a spore does not contain a preformed embryo.
Sporogenesis (
Reproduction by means of spores, the formation of spores.
Spot test
A small local test using water, solvents, or other materials being considered for use in
treatment, which are applied in inconspicuous places on the artifact to determine the
possible positive or negative effects on the paper, media, adhesives, etc. present in an
artifact.
Stain
A discoloration which lies in the fiber matrix of the support. Also see stain in the AIC
Lexicon.
 Staining on pape

Sterigma (mol
(pl. sterigmata) A small hyphal branch or structure, which supports a sporangium,
a conidium or a basidiospore.
Stub
“...a strip of paper or cloth tipped to the gutter edge of a leaf to match the thickness of a
flat object, such as a photo or map, mounted to the leaf. Several strips of stubbing may
be needed if the mounted object is thick” (Horton 2000, 26).
“1. That part of an original leaf which is left after most of it has been cut away from its
conjugate leaf. See also: Cancel. 2. A narrow strip of paper or linen sewn between
sections of a book for the purpose of attaching plates, maps, etc.” (Roberts and
Etherington).
See also “stub” in The Language of Bindings Thesaurus.
Substrate
Also called the adherend, the surface onto which tape is applied.
Superficial
Resting on the surface of the support or media, not imbedded.
Supports
Conservators distinguish between the sheet or surface which bears the image directly
(primary support), an additional sheet which may be adhered to that image-bearing
sheet (secondary support), and extra materials which lend further rigidity to the former
(auxiliary support). Every paper has a primary support but only some have secondary
supports or auxiliary supports.
Support, prima
The sheet or surface which bears the image directly, generally a sheet of paper for
prints, drawings, and manuscripts. The primary support may be a simple sheet of paper
or may be adhered to a secondary support, another sheet or surface, which gives
additional rigidity and support.
Support, secon
An additional material, often paper or fabric, adhered to the primary support which
gives additional rigidity and support, for example, a chine-collé print in which a small,
very thin paper is adhered onto a thicker, larger sheet, or a map or poster mounted
onto linen.
Support, auxil
Structural materials that lend rigidity and support to the primary support, the surface
which bears an image. Examples of auxiliary supports include stretchers,
strainers, mats, etc.
Surface cleani
See dry cleaning and surface cleaning in the AIC Lexicon.

T[edit | edit

Tack
The relative stickiness of an adhesive. The effectiveness of adhesive is evaluated by
measurable expression of the strength of the adherend /adhesion bond; tack is the
property measured in the assessment.
Tackifier
A material added to an adhesive system to control the stickiness of the adhesive. In
rubber-based adhesives, resins are nearly always used.
Tapa
A beaten sheet material resembling paper which is prepared from the inner bark of the
paper mulberry tree, according to methods developed by Pacific islanders.
Tapes
A variety of adhesive-coated materials manufactured in strips and often found on paper
art and artifacts as previously-applied mounting or repair materials. Typically, a tape
structure consists of a carrier strip of paper, cloth, or plastic, which has an adhesive
layer coated on it. Gummed tape has an adhesive that requires moistening to become
tacky. Pressure-sensitive tape has a natural or synthetic rubber-like adhesive which is
tacky at room temperature and requires only pressure to become adhered to a surface.
Tape, Adhesive
An adhesive film without a carrier layer, dispensed from a handheld "gun" which
transfers tacky adhesive from silicone release paper onto a surface.
Tape, archival
So-called "archival tape" varieties are formulated of adhesives which are more stable
than typical commercial tapes. Because they can be misused, they are not generally
recommended for application on paper art or artifacts.
Tape, cellopha
An early form of pressure-sensitive tape (see tapes), which had a carrier of cellophane,
a glossy plastic made of regenerated cellulose, and an unstable adhesive layer very
prone to causing oily discolored stains on paper and other surfaces.
Tape, double-s
A form of tape with a very thin carrier that is coated on both sides with pressure-
sensitive adhesive. See 3M 415 double- sided tape.
Tape, glassine
An early form of gummed repair tape (see tapes) with a carrier of glassine paper,
a glossy tan transparent paper.
Tape, linen
A form of cloth tape, typically a gummed tape (see tapes), though some pressure-
sensitive varieties are now available.
Tape, Magic (M

A form of tape
prone to discolo

Tape, masking
A form of pressure-sensitive tape (see tapes) with a tan crepe paper carrier. Designed
for temporary application, as in masking out areas prior to painting, so generally not
stable.
Tape, 3M type
A form of tape with a very thin carrier that is coated on both sides with a pressure-
sensitive adhesive. This adhesive tape has been specified as the recommended adhesive
for tape encapsulation.
Tear
Physical damage which results in a linear or branched separation of the support into
partially or completely separate pieces. The resulting edges along the separation have a
soft fibrous "feathered" edge, in distinction to a sharp cut edge. Also see tear in the AIC
Lexicon.

Tear on a 19th ce

Tenting
Upward lifting in a tent-like curvature of layers which have cleaved, often as a result of
shrinkage of the primary support.
Thallus (mold)
A relatively simple plant body devoid of stems, roots and leaves; in fungi,
the somatic phase.
Thermoplastic
A high polymer that softens when exposed to heat and returns to its original condition
when cooled to room temperature. Natural substances that exhibit this behavior are
crude rubber and a number of waxes; however, the term is usually applied to synthetics
such as polyvinyl chloride...linear polyethylene...and cellulosis and acrylic resin (Hawley
1977). See Adhesives: Acrylic Resin Dispersions.
Thinning, thin
A form of abrasion with marked loss of paper fibers, that makes the paper more
translucent to light in the affected area. May be associated with skinning.
Thixotropy
The ability of certain colloidal gels to liquefy when agitated (as by shaking or ultrasonic
vibration) and to return to the gel form when at rest (Hawley 1977).
Throw-up
The curving of the book spine when it is opened. Throw-up helps the leaves to lie flat
(Greenfield 1998).
Tideline
A stain which occurs when a liquid dries, depositing dissolved material at its perimeter.
A tideline is characterized by a discrete edge which is often darker than the remainder
of the associated stain. Also see tideline in the AIC Lexicon.

Tideline on pape

Transmitted li
Light source positioned beneath or behind the support so that the light shines through
the fiber matrix and media. This lighting position allows one to see the distribution and
density of paper fibers and media, watermarks, chain and laid lines (see laid paper), etc.

U[edit | edit

Undulation
Planar deformation consisting of soft, gradual distortions which are convex and concave
in appearance.
Ultraviolet (UV
A high energy portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, which lies above violet light in
the visible spectrum. Ultraviolet radiation is invisible to humans, hence is not correctly
called light. It is not necessary for vision and is capable of causing photochemical
degradation of many organic materials including cellulose, as well as causing fading of
dyes and pigments. For these reasons, ultraviolet radiation present in daylight or the
light produced by common light sources such as fluorescent tubes or halogen fixtures
should always be filtered to remove ultraviolet in order to prevent photochemical
damage and fading of art and artifacts exposed to light. Often abbreviated as UV. See
also fluorescence.

V[edit | edit

Verso
The left hand side of a book opening. By extension the back face of a sheet of paper.
The back face is also called the reverse.
Vulcanization
A chemical reaction in which the physical properties of rubber are changed in the
direction of decreased plastic flow, less surface tackiness, and increased tensile strength
by reacting it with sulfur or other suitable agents. ASTM (from Skeist 1973, 18).

W[edit | edi

Washing
A treatment step in which the paper artifact is immersed in or saturated with water in
an attempt to remove soluble degradation products or discoloration and to restore its
flexibility.
Watermark
A design created in paper made in a papermaking mold with wire shapes sewn onto its
surface. The design is visible in transmitted and/or raking light because paper fibers are
more thinly deposited in this area. Machine-made paper can be given an impression
resembling a watermark through use of a dandyroll in manufacturing. Chemical
watermarks are made by impregnating the manufactured paper support with a
transparentizing medium. Watermarks are useful in identifying the origin and age of
paper.
Wove paper
Paper which is manufactured (either by hand or by machine) on a screen or with an
even mesh. Paper fibers form an evenly distributed matrix of uniform thickness. The
sheet may exhibit a faint pattern similar to fabric which is due to the transfer of the
texture from the screen or web. Wove paper was introduced in the West around 1750.
Wrinkle
Sharp deformation of paper, angular and irregular appearance, often with broken
fibers.

X[edit | edit

Y[edit | edit
Z[edit | edit

Bibliogra

Angsüsser, Step

Brown, Barbara
Annual Meeting

Glaister, Geoffr

Greenfield, Jane

Hawley, Gessne

Horton, Richard
American Institu

Ligatus Langua

Roberts, Matt T
CoOL.

Skeist, Irving, ed

Wootton, Mary,
and Paper Grou

Further R

Brunner, Felix,

Goldman, Paul,

Ivins, William, 1

External

CAMEO: Conser
 Glossary on Pap

Ligatus Langua

Multilingual Bo

Multilingual Glo

Terminology fo

Translation of B

Visual Glossary

History o

In 2016, the BP
from Hinge, Tap
Conservation C

In 2021, terms d

Paper Conserv

The Written Do

Compilers: Holly Krueger, Sarah Melching, Kitty Nicholson

Contributors: Craigen W. Bowen, Irene Brückle, Jane Douglas, Robert Futernick,
Margaret Holben Ellis, Karen Garlick, Michelle Hamill, Claire Hoevel, Maria S. Holden,
Harold Holland, Jane E. Klinger, John Krill, Cella Manea, Sue Murphy, Maria Pukownick,
Pamela Y. Randolph, Nancy Carlson Schrock
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Holly Krueger,
Elizabeth Coombs Leslie, Catherine I. Maynor, Catherine (Kitty) Nicholson, Kimberly
Schenck, Ann Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone Wallis

The Adhesives c

Liaison: Catherine I. Maynor, Diane van der Reyden.

Compilers: Antoinette Dwan, Catherine Nicholson, Christine Smith with Sarah Bertalan,
Janet English, Kimberly Schenck, Linda Stiber, Sarah Wagner, Sylvia Rodgers Albro.
Contributors: Cathy Baker, Dan Clement, Debora Mayer, Denise Thomas, Doris
Hamburg, Francis Prichett, Frank Mowery, Janet Ruggles, Jill Sterrett, John Krill, Katherine
Eirk, Lage Carlson, Lynne Gilliland, Martha M. Smith, Mary Baker, Paula Volent, T.K.
McClintock, Tim Vitale

Original Compilers: Elissa O'Loughlin, Linda Stiber

Contributors: Sylvia R. Albro, Nancy E. Ash, Susan Lee Bechtold, Fern Bleckner, Victoria
Blyth-Hill, Elizabeth Buschor, Susan Duhl, Katherine G. Eirk, Christa M. Gaehde, Lynn
Gilliland, Julie Goldman, Sherry Guild, Kendra Deerenee Lovette, Holly Maxson, Barbara
Meierjames/Husby, William D. Minter, Elizabeth Ann Morse, Kitty Nicholson, Leslie Hill
Paisley, Pamela Young Randolph, Elizabeth Kaiser Schulte, Martha-Lucia Sierra, Christine
Smith, Martha M. Smith, Karen L. Tidwell, Timothy J. Vitale, Judith C. Walsh, Marilyn
Kemp Weidner, Joan L. Weir, Elizabeth C. Wendelin, Anne Witty, Richard Wolbers, Faith
Zieske.
Special thanks to Marjorie Cleveland, Senior Technical Information Specialist,
Conservation Analytical Laboratory, Smithsonian Institution for her assistance in
database searches.
Editorial Board Liaison: Ann Seibert
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Catherine I. Maynor,
Kitty Nicholson, Kimberly Schenck, Arm Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone
Wallis

Compilers: Sarah Bertalan, Mary Wood Lee, Lois Olcott Price

Contributors: Mary-Lou Florian, Dr. Robert J. Koestler, Kitty Nicholson, Dr. Thomas A.
Parker, Ted Stanley, Hanna Szczepanowska, Sarah Wagner
Editorial Board Liaison: Sarah Bertalan
Editorial Board: Sylvia R. Albro, Sarah Bertalan, Antoinette Dwan, Holly Krueger,
Elizabeth Coombs Leslie, Catherine I. Maynor, Kitty Nicholson, Kimberly Schenck, Ann
Seibert, Dianne van der Reyden, Terry Boone Wallis