Is Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® both safe for colors and inks?
Both Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® contain no solvents and no water. Independent testing of hundreds of ink and paper samples from the mid-nineteenth century to the present found that Archival Mist® does not dissolve inks or colors, or cause them to run or bleed. The composition of Paper Bright® is similar and leads us to believe testing will reveal the same results. In a few cases, the change in pH from acid to alkaline, caused by Archival Mist® or Paper Bright®, may affect the shade of a color. But even pH sensitive colors are often not affected unless the paper becomes wet or in very humid conditions. Archival Mist® should not be used on blueprints or other similar materials - raising the pH may affect the colors in these documents.

Are the ingredients in Archival Mist® or Paper Bright® hazardous to my health?
No. Ingredients in Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® are non-hazardous, non-toxic, and non-flammable. Both products are environmentally safe. They dry odor-free, and can be used in spaces with normal ventilation. When treating any artifact with a high commercial value, you should consult a professional conservator before treatment.

Can I use Archival Mist® or Paper Bright® on glossy or encapsulated materials?
Both products protect glossy materials, but do not penetrate the plastic coating of encapsulated materials. The alkaline coating the product leaves on nonabsorbent materials (photographs) can be wiped off with a soft dry cloth.

Does Archival Mist® or Paper Bright® have a shelf life?
Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® can be stored indefinitely and will not lose effectiveness.

How does Archival Mist® protect paper?
Archival Mist® deposits a safe, non-toxic alkaline buffer into the structure of paper that continues to work over the Life™ of paper. This buffer material neutralizes acids that can weaken paper and cause it to become brittle. Paper treated with Archival Mist® will last at least five times longer than if left untreated.

Is Archival Mist® safe for photographs?
Photographs can safely be stored with treated materials with no adverse effect from the treatment. The Image Permanence Institute tested Archival Mist® and determined that it satisfies the requirements of the Photographic Activity Test (PAT). Paper Bright® has been submitted for testing, and it is anticipated it will perform comparably. Neither product is intended for use on photographs, nor will photographs benefit from the products. If sprayed on a photograph, a light coating of material may be noticeable. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove the coating, but take care not to scratch the surface.

What materials will Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® protect?
Both Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® are designed to protect paper-based materials, including letters, envelopes, newsprint, certificates, awards, artwork, books, and pamphlets. Neither product contains solvents, nor will they affect inks, adhesives, leather, plastic, metals or fabrics. If Archival Mist® or Paper Bright® is sprayed on non-absorbent materials (tabletops, plastic, etc.) a light coating of alkaline material will be noticeable. This can be cleaned with a soft dry or slightly damp cloth.

Why should I use Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® together?
Together, Archival Mist® and Paper Bright® serve to protect paper from the damaging effects of acid and light.