Only Artcare mats and mounts offer enduring protection
Inferior mounting and framing materials are responsible for more damage to pictures than previously thought. Pictures such as photos, drawings and watercolours can be damaged irreparably by direct contact with unsuitable framing materials. Unprofessional restoration, poor technique and materials, incorrect storage and display can lead to permanent damage
The introduction of Zeolites is described scientifically as MicroChamber technology. The use of this technology in conjunction with paper production is a revolution of technical progress for picture framing and archiving. For the first time, mats and mounting boards are not only acid-free and ageing resistant by themselves, but also, most importantly they absorb the most common harmful pollutants in the ambient air.
What is a Zeolite? Zeolite is a natural mineral discovered 250 years ago. Zeolites have a crystal structure with a very large surface area. This gives them a nearly endless capacity to keep absorbing harmful substances. Nielsen uses a special synthetic Zeolite in Artcare boards and mounts, which absorbs pollutants in the microclimate of the framed picture. Today, Zeolites are often used for water filtration, in detergents and for air filter systems.
Graphic impression of a Zeolite. Source: C. Baerlocher/ laboratory for crystallography ETHZ
Frames are dangerous!A picture frame is not a vacuum, it is a microclimate that is susceptible to damage from airborne pollutants which can damage the picture. The small amount of alkaline buffers present in conventional mats and mounts are unable to absorb these pollutants. The commonly used buffer calcium carbonate ensures the mat or mount has a neutral pH but this does not protect the picture. The specially designed synthetic Zeolites used in Artcare mounts and mats continue to absorb and protect the art from airborne damage.
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