Products
Lay Flat Archival Polyester Pocket™
A custom sized Melinex® 516 archival polyester pocket (or ‘sleeve’). The inherent static cling of this polyester provides physical support, and protection from atmospheric pollutants and daily public use. The pocket’s design adds a welded in, spunbond polyester strip at the binding edge. This allows for a flat book block, and reinforces the binding edge for added strength and years of service.
Of course, the materials from which enclosures are made are extremely important:
PET is the most inert, rigid, dimensionally stable and strongest film. It is crystal clear, smooth, and has no odor. Archival polyester is either discontinued Mylar Type D or Melinex® 516 (manufactured by Dupont or ICI Limited). While it is the most expensive, PET’s non-damaging properties deem it the superior archival choice for long-term storage by professional archivists. It is available in a number of thicknesses (or gauges). Also, it will not distort or melt in case of fire.
Untreated (uncoated) polypropylene is slightly less rigid and less expensive than polyester. Avoid polypropylene with a surface coating, ultraviolet absorbers (UVAs), antistatic additives, flame retardants, and dyes. PP distorts in the event of fire and is prone to trapping moisture. Surface-treated PP is soft and widely used in the scrapbooking industry.
Flimsy and less transparent, PE is often used for garment bags. While it is acceptable for the storage of archival materials, separating wet books when frozen, and appropriate for wrapping and strapping purposes—as the softest plastic—it offers no support for fragile paper and has problems with abrasion. PE melts in the event of fire and is prone to trapping moisture.
Do not bring PVC into contact with archival materials. PVC has a strong odor or “new car” smell, and produces oil over time. This “oil” reacts with ink to cause staining and discoloration. In short time, the oily residue melds the paper to the plastic. Removal can transfer the image/ink to the plastic.
PS Films are very easy to tear. Many counties purchase PS binders—unaware that they are highly flammable and outgas toxic hydrochloric acid fumes in the presence of heat.
Louisiana Binding Service, Inc., 300 Ampacet Drive, DeRidder, Louisiana 70634
Phone: 800.365.8330 or 1.337.460.8323 Fax: 1.337.460.8324
info@louisianabindingservice.com
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