What is the difference between acid free and pH neutral mat board?
Mat board made from linen, “rag mat”, is truly acid free since it is made without the harsh chemicals used to make paper mat board. Rag mats are pH neutral. Rag mat board offers the highest level of protection to anything framed. Modern paper or “alpha-cellulose” mat board is treated to remove acids and other chemicals during manufacturing. Buffering agents are added to assure the finished paper is pH neutral. Paper mat board is more economical than rag mat and is offered in a wider variety of colors and textures. It is often an excellent choice for photographs, certificates, memorabilia and many other items.
