This specification covers file folders used in the storage of records and documents that are expected to have maximum, or substantial, life expectancy.

Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee D06 on Paper and Paper Products, this specification was withdrawn in August 2010 due to a lack of interest in properties-based specifications for paper.

This specification covers file folders used in the storage of records and documents that are expected to have maximum, or substantial, life expectancy. This specification is based on fiber sources used in the production of paper that contains no more than 1% lignin, for papers used in archives, libraries, and other permanent records. Three types of file folder stock are described, according to life expectancy level: Type I, maximum life expectancy, LE-1000; Type II, high life expectancy, LE-100; and Type III, medium life expectancy, LE-50. Each type shall be classified into two grades: Grades 1 and 2. Tests shall be performed to determined the specified requirements, in accordance to the following test methods: fiber analysis; hydrogen ion concentration cold extraction; filler; grammage; thickness; internal tearing resistance; folding endurance; color; dimensions and trim; grain; sizing; printing properties; erasing quality; finish; stiffness; photoactivity; and lightfastness.

1.1 This specification covers file folders used in the storage of records and documents that are expected to have maximum, or substantial, life expectancy.

1.2 It has been shown (, , , , ) that the life expectancy of paper is at least an approximate function of the pH of an aqueous extract of the paper. Three pH levels, reflecting three levels of life expectancy, are specified.

1.3 The following would be expected to contribute significantly to the life and usefulness of folders: the use of folders with controlled acidity, or of folders manufactured under neutral or alkaline conditions, especially with an alkaline filler, such as calcium carbonate, that absorbs acidic gases from the atmosphere and can neutralize acidic materials formed during aging.

1.4 This specification is based on fiber sources used in the production of paper that contains no more than 1 % lignin, for papers used in archives, libraries, and other permanent records. However, under proper conditions, (see ), fiber sources containing more than 1 % lignin may be employed for many other end uses in paper for records that are required to have a substantial life expectancy.

1.5 As indicated in Appendix and , this specification may be used as a guide.