Re: Comparing archival inks

[John Goerger <john@weber-valentine.com>]

Chris Gannon wrote:
> 
> Kathy- did you use the recommended paper with Lysonic inks.  The paper base
> is as important as the ink!
> 
> Chris
> -
This is not entirely true. While the base paper is important. You
definetly do not have to use the "recommended" paper. In some instances
you can even get better results with papers the ink manufacturer
(OR SELLER) never even heard of. 
When an ink manufacturer decides on an ink formulation it is usually
through one of two processes. In one they have a specific paper that
they want to make an ink for. In the other, which is the usual scenario,
they have an ink they think is pretty good and then go out looking for
papers that will work on it.
What they are looking for is not necessarily the best paper for the ink,
they could be looking for the highest margin on a paper and ink
combination. As long as the ink works well on the paper, they may not
neccessarily want the BEST paper, it may cost too much. In other
instances the ink seller may have decided on a paper because they didn't
know about another brand and then it is to late, because they may have
signed contracts with another coater or manufacturer.
The trick with archival printing is finding a ink and paper combination
that works. As long as the paper is of an archival nature, ie.. low to
no lignin content, has a neutral to alkaline pH, low to no alum-sulfate
in the paper making process, is buffered with calcium carbonate or some
other buffer and has the proper mordants and is relativly begnin to the
dye stuffs you should get good results with a variety of papers. The
only trick is finding them. 
This list is a good source for that purpose.

-- 
John Goerger
www.weber-valentine.com
Toll Free 1-800-323-9642 USA ONLY
1-847-439-7111 Fax: 1-847-439-6887
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