March 2011 No. 12

Government
March 2011 No. 12

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office

Internet: bookstore.gpo.gov Phone: toll free (866) 512-1800; DC area (202) 512-1800

F 1 ax: (202) 512-2104 Mail: Stop IDCC, Washington, DC 20402-000

Printed on recycled paper

Government

ISBN 978-0-16-088382-8
 
March 16, 2011

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden

The President of the Senate

The Honorable John A. Boehner

The Speaker of the House of Representatives

Sirs:

I have the honor to transmit herewith the Annual Report of the U.S. Government Printing Office

(GPO) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010. The report contains the results of an audit of

GPO’s financial statements conducted by an independent accounting firm.

Respectfully submitted,

WILLIAM J. BOARMAN

Public Printer

WILLIAM J. BOARMAN

Public Printer of the United States

732 No rth Capitol St reet, NW, Washington, DC 20401-0001 I wboarman@gpo.gov

U. S. G O V E R N M E N T P R I N T I N G O F F I C E

Keeping America Informed I www.gpo.gov
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Advisory Council on Paper Specifications ................................................ v 

 

Introduction ..................................................................................... vii

Recycled Fiber Content and Permanent Paper Standards ................................... ix 

Part 1. Specifications ........................................................................... 1 

Runnability Requirements for Paper Used in a Federal Printing Plant ................... 3 

Printing Papers .................................................................................. 5 

JCP A10: Newsprint 

JCP A25: Heat-Set Web Offset Machine-Finish Book 

JCP A50: Machine-Finish Book End 

JCP A55: Heat-Set Web Offset Book 

JCP A60: Offset Book 

JCP A61: No. 1 Offset Book Smooth-Finish 

JCP A63: Offset Book Colored 

JCP A65: Light-Weight Uncoated Groundwood Paper 

JCP A70: 100% Recycled Offset Book 

JCP A72: Flexural Offset Book 

JCP A75: Light-Weight Offset Book (Bible Paper) 

JCP A80: Opacified Offset Book 

JCP A90: Vellum-Finish Book, White & Colored 

JCP A91: Smooth & Fancy-Finish Text, White & Colored 

JCP A95: Hi-Bulk Offset (Return Mailer) 

JCP A100: Antique Book 

JCP A110: 50% Antique Book 

JCP A120: 50% Laid-Antique Book 

JCP A150: Uncoated Vegetable-Fiber Book 

JCP A160: Coated One-Side (C1S) 

JCP A170: Litho (Gloss) Coated Book 

JCP A175: (Publication Grade) Gloss Coated Book 

JCP A180: Litho (Gloss) Coated Book 

JCP A181: No. 1 Coated Text, Gloss-Finish 

JCP A182: No. 2 Coated Text, Gloss-Finish 

JCP A205: Litho (Gloss) Coated Book 

JCP A220: Water-Resistant (Text) Book 

JCP A230: High Yield Coated Opaque Offset 

JCP A235: (Publication Grade) Matte Coated Book 

JCP A240: Matte Coated Offset Book 

i 
JCP A250: Laid-Finish Book, White & Colored 

JCP A260: Dull Coated Offset Book 

JCP A261: No. 1 Coated Text, Dull-Finish 

JCP A262: No. 2 Coated Text, Dull-Finish 

JCP A270: Uncoated Permanent Book, White and Cream White (Archival Quality) 

Writing Papers ................................................................................... 41 

JCP D10: Writing, White & Colored 

JCP D11: Smooth & Fancy-Finish Writing Bond, White & Colored 

JCP D50: 100% Fine Writing 

Map Papers ....................................................................................... 45 

JCP E10: 50% Map, Lithographic-Finish 

JCP E20: High Wet-Strength Map, Lithographic-Finish 

JCP E30: Offset Map, Lithographic-Finish 

JCP E40: Chemical Wood Map, Lithographic-Finish 

JCP E50: 50% Chart, Lithographic-Finish 

Manifold Papers ................................................................................. 51

JCP F10: Manifold, White & Colored 

JCP F30: 25% Glazed Manifold 

Bond Papers ...................................................................................... 53

JCP G05: Chemical Wood Forms Bond, White & Colored 

JCP G10: Bond 

JCP G15: Recycled Forms Bond, White & Colored 

JCP G16: Recycled Forms Bond, Natural Shade 

JCP G40: 25% Bond, White & Colored (Archival Quality) 

JCP G45: Recycled 25% Bond, White & Colored 

JCP G50: 25% Translucent Bond 

JCP G60: 25% Opacified Bond (Archival Quality) 

JCP G65: Recycled 25% Opacified Bond, White & Colored 

JCP G70: 50% Bond 

JCP G80: 100% Bond 

Parchment Papers ............................................................................... 65

JCP H10: 100% Parchment Deed 

JCP H20: Cream White 100% Artificial Parchment 

JCP H30: Imitation Parchment Laser-Finish, White, Natural White, & Colored 

JCP H40: Cream White Diploma Paper, Smooth-Finish 

Ledger Papers .................................................................................... 69 

JCP J10: Ledger, White & Colored 

JCP J20: 25% Ledger 

JCP J30: 100% Ledger 

ii 
Index Papers ..................................................................................... 73

JCP K10: Index, White & Colored 

JCP K20: 25% Index, White & Colored 

JCP K30: Cream White 100% Index 

Cover Papers ..................................................................................... 77

JCP L10: Litho (Gloss) Coated Cover 

JCP L11: No. 1 Coated Cover, Gloss-Finish 

JCP L12: No. 2 Coated Cover, Gloss-Finish 

JCP L20: Vellum-Finish Cover, White & Colored 

JCP L21: Smooth & Fancy-Finish Cover, White & Colored 

JCP L23: Offset Cover 

JCP L24: Vellum-Bristol Cover, White & Colored 

JCP L40: Laid-Finish Cover, White & Colored 

JCP L50: Matte Coated Cover 

JCP L60: Dull Coated Cover 

JCP L61: No. 1 Coated Cover, Dull-Finish 

JCP L62: No. 2 Coated Cover, Dull-Finish 

JCP L70: Coated One Side Cover (C1S) 

JCP L80: Cast Coated Cover 

 

Kraft Paper ....................................................................................... 91 

JCP N10: No. 2 Kraft 

Miscellaneous Papers ........................................................................... 93

JCP O-10: Gummed, Conventional Adhesive 

JCP O-25: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Bond 

JCP O-26: Optical Mark Read (OMR) Bond, White, Violet or Gray 

JCP O-27: Optical Mark Sense Scanner (OMSS) Bond 

JCP O-60: Plain Copier, Xerographic, White, & Colored (Archival Quality) 

JCP O-61: High Quality Xerographic Copier, Laser Printer 

JCP O-63: Plain Copier, Xerographic, Laser Printer, White & Colored 

JCP O-65: Plain Copier, Xerographic, White & Colored 

JCP O-70: 100% Recycled Plain Copier, Xerographic 

JCP O-80: Carbonless Bond 

JCP O-90: Printable Plastic Film (Synthetic Paper) 

JCP O-91: Uncoated (Tear-Resistant) Synthetic Paper 

Tag Boards ...................................................................................... 105 

JCP P10: High-Finish Manila Tag 

JCP P20: High-Finish Folder Stock, Natural & Colored 

iii 
Cardboards ....................................................................................... 107 

JCP Q20: Railroad Board, White & Colored 

JCP Q50: Chemical Wood Board, Colored 

JCP Q80: High-Finish Red Wallet Board 

Miscellaneous Boards .......................................................................... 111

JCP R10: Pressboard, Colored (Type III) 

JCP R11: Pressboard, Colored (Type I) 

JCP R20: Newsboard 

JCP R30: Book Cover Board 

Envelopes....................................................................................... 115

General Requirements for Envelopes used in Federal Printing Plants 

JCP V10: Light-Brown (Kraft Shade) Envelope 

JCP V20: Writing Envelope, White and Colored 

JCP V40: 25% Bond Envelope 

JCP V90: TYVEKTM-Finish Envelope 

Part 2. Testing Standards and Definition of Terms .................................... 121 

Part 3. Standard Samples and Drawings ................................................ 127

Samples and Color Information .............................................................. 129

Watermark Drawings .......................................................................... 130

Envelope Drawings ............................................................................. 131

Part 4. Statutory Authority and Acceptance Criteria ................................. 133

Title 44 References: Sections 509, 513 and 514 .......................................... 135

Product Quality Index, Defect Definitions and PQI Formula ............................ 135

Defect Category and Demerit ................................................................. 136

Calculating PQI Examples .................................................................... 138

 

 

 

iv 
ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PAPER SPECIFICATIONS 

(Member Agencies) 

U. S. Government Printing Office 

James C. Bradley, Assistant Public Printer 

Sylvia S.Y. Subt (ssubt@gpo.gov) – Editor 

Environmental Protection Agency 

Daniel Bell (bell.daniel@epa.gov) 

Department of Defense 

Wendy Steele (wendy.steele@dla.mil)

Department of Energy 

Dallas D. Woodruff (Dallas.Woodruff@hq.doe.gov) 

Department of Interior 

Burt Simon (bsimon@usgs.gov) 

Department of State 

Steve Johnston (johnstonsc@stat.gov) 

Department of Transportation 

Jeffrey McLean (jeffrey.mclean@dot.gov) 

General Services Administration 

John Gravelle (john.gravelle@gsa.gov) 

Interagency Council on Printing and Publishing 

Burt Simon, Chairman 

Library of Congress 

Jeff Yake (jyak@loc.gov) 

National Archives and Records Administration 

Brian Barth (brian.barth@nara.gov) 

Office of the Federal Environmental Executive 

Juan Lopez (lopez.juan@ofee.gov) 

U. S. Senate, Office of Printing Services 

Karen Moore (Karen_moore@sec.senate.gov) 

U.S. House of Representatives, Publication Services 

(TBD) 

v 
 
INTRODUCTION 

Each item of paper is identified by a paper code which indicates both class and grade. 

For example, JCP A60, the “A” refers to the class of printing paper and the 60 to the 

grade “offset book.” Similarly for JCP L20, “L” refers to cover paper class and 20 to the 

“vellum-finish” grade. The four-digit number associated with the FSC prefix is a 

General Services Administration Federal Supply Catalog designation and included when 

available. 

The use of optical (fluorescent) brighteners is prohibited in those grades with 50% and 

100% cotton/linen content as well as those papers specified for use in optical scanners. 

There are 15 classes of papers listed in the table of contents. In a separate table, the 

archival/permanent paper grades and the minimum recycled and postconsumer fiber 

content for each grade are detailed. 

This publication has been divided into four sections: 

(1) Part one consists of the 108 standards (including interim standards) authorized by 

the Joint Committee on Printing. 

(2) Definition of terms used in the standards and the test methods used in measuring 

the characteristics and properties of papers and paper boards are in Part two. 

(3) Information on the standard samples program, drawings of common envelop 

construction-types, and Government watermarks are found in Part three. 

(4) Part four provides statutory references for the setting of standards and the 

evaluation program for determining compliance of the paper standard. 

The standards will be reviewed and republished on a 5-year cycle. The intent is for the 

member agencies of the Advisory Council on Paper Specifications to meet annually to 

review the Government’s paper standards. 

Selected specifications are identified as Qualified Products. The procuring agency 

maintains a list of named products that have been previously evaluated and determined to 

meet the requirements of the standard. 

Additionally, in January 2011, a collection of physical paper samples representing stocks 

that are most likely to be used in Federal print projects was re-issued by GPO. For 

assistance in selecting the proper paper stock, contact your GPO customer service 

representative. 

vii 
 
Paper 

Code Paper Grades

Permanent 

or Alkaline 

Paper 

Option

Minimum 

PC 

Content

Total 

Recycled 

Content

Printing Paper 

A10 Newsprint. 40

A25 Heat-Set Web Offset Machine-Finish Book. 30

A50 Machine-Finish Book End. x 30

A55 Heat-Set Web Offset Book (in-plant paper standard). 30

A60 Offset Book. x 30

A61 No. 1 Offset Book Smooth-Finish. x 30

A63 Offset Book, Colored. 30

A65 Light-Weight Uncoated Groundwood Paper. 40

A70 100% Recycled Offset Book. 50 100

A72 Flexural Offset Book. 30

A75 Light-Weight Offset Book (Bible Paper). x

A80 Opacified Offset Book. x 30

A90 Vellum-Finish Book, White & Colored. x 30

A91 Smooth & Fancy-Finish Text, White & Colored. x 30

A95 Hi-Bulk Offset (Return Mailer). 30

A100 Antique Book. 30

A110 50% Antique Book. 30 50

A120 50% Laid-Antique Book. 30 50

A150 Uncoated Vegetable-Fiber Book.

A160 Coated One-side Text (C1S). 10

A170 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book. 10

A175 (Publication Grade) Gloss Coated Book. 10

A180 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book. 10

A181 No. 1 Coated Text, Gloss-Finish. 10

A182 No. 2 Coated Text, Gloss-Finish. 10

A205 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book. 10

A220 Water-Resistant (Text) Book. 30

A230 High Yield Coated Opaque Offset. 10

A235 (Publication Grade) Matte Coated Book. 10

A240 Matte Coated Offset Book. 10

A250 Laid-Finish Book, White & Colored. 30

A260 Dull Coated Offset Book. 10

A261 No. 1 Coated Text, Dull-Finish. 10

A262 No. 2 Coated Text, Dull-Finish. 10

A270 Uncoated Permanent Book, White and Cream White (Archival Quality). x 30

Writing Paper

D10 Writing, White & Colored. 30

D11 Smooth & Fancy-Finish Writing Bond, White & Colored. 30

D50 100% Fine Writing. 100

RECYCLED CONTENT AND PERMANENT STANDARDS 

ix
Paper

Code Paper Grades

Permanent

or Alkaline 

Paper

Option

Minimum

PC

Content

Total

Recycled

Content

Map Paper 

E10 50% Map, Lithographic-Finish. . 50

E20 High Wet-Strength Map, Lithographic-Finish. 10 or 20

E30 Offset Map, Lithographic-Finish. 30

E40 Chemical Wood Map, Lithographic-Finish. 20

E50 50% Chart, Lithographic-Finish. 50

Manifold Paper 

F10 Manifold, White & Colored x

F30 25% Glazed Manifold 25

Bond Paper

G05 Chemical Wood Forms Bond, White & Colored. 30

G10 Bond. 30

G15 Recycled Forms Bond, White & Colored. 30 50

G16 Recycled Forms Bond, Natural Shade. 30 50

G40 25% Bond, White & Colored (Archival Quality). x 30

G45 Recycled 25% Bond, White & Colored. 30 50

G50 25% Translucent Bond. 25

G60 25% Opacified Bond (Archival Quality). x 30

G65 Recycled 25% Opacified Bond White & Colored. 30 50

G70 50% Bond. 30 50

G80 100% Bond. 100

Parchment Paper

H10 100% Parchment Deed. 100

H20 Cream White 100% Artificial Parchment. 100

H30 Imitation Parchment Laser-Finish, White, Natural White, & Colored. x 30

H40 Cream White Diploma Paper, Smooth-Finish. x 30

Ledger Paper

J10 Ledger, White & Colored. x 30

J20 25% Ledger. 30

J30 100% Ledger. 100

Index Paper

K10 Index, White & Colored. x 20

K20 25% Index, White & Colored. 20 25

K30 Cream White 100% Index. 100

Cover Paper

L10 Litho (Gloss) Coated Cover. 10

L11 No. 1 Coated Cover, Gloss-Finish. 10

L12 No. 2 Coated Cover, Gloss-Finish. 10

x
Paper 

Code Paper Grades

Permanent 

or Alkaline 

Paper 

Option

Minimum 

PC 

Content

Total 

Recycled 

Content

L20 Vellum-Finish Cover, White & Colored. 30

L21 Smooth & Fancy-Finish Cover, White & Colored. 30

L23 Offset Cover. 30

L24 Vellum-Bristol Cover, White & Colored. 30

L40 Laid-Finish Cover, White & Colored. 30

L50 Matte Coated Cover. 10

L60 Dull Coated Cover. 10

L61 No. 1 Coated Cover, Dull-Finish. 10

L62 No. 2 Coated Cover, Dull-Finish. 10

L70 Coated One Side Cover (C1S). 10

L80 Cast Coated Cover. 10

Kraft Paper

N10 No. 2 Kraft. 5

Miscellaneous Paper

O-10 Gummed, Conventional Adhesive.

O-25 Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Bond.

O-26 Optical Mark Read (OMR) Bond, White, Violet or Gray.

O-27 Optical Mark Sense Scanner (OMSS) Bond.

O-60 Plain Copier, Xerographic, White, & Colored (Archival Quality). x 30

O-61 High Quality Xerographic Copier, Laser Printer.

O-63 Plain Copier, Xerographic, Laser Printer, Colored. 30

O-65 Plain Copier, Xerographic, White & Colored. 30

O-70 100% Recycled Plain Copier, Xerographic. 50 100

O-80 Carbonless Bond. 30

O-90 Printable Plastic Film (Synthetic Paper).

O-91 Uncoated (Tear Resistant) Synthetic Paper

Tag Board 

P10 High-Finish Manila Tag. 20

P20 High-Finish Folder Stock, Natural & Colored. 50

Cardboard 

Q20 Railroad Board, White & Colored. 15 80

Q50 Chemical Wood Board, Colored. 50

Q80 High-Finish Red Wallet Board. 20

Miscellaneous Board 

R10 Pressboard, Colored (Type III). 20 50

R11 Pressboard, Colored (Type I). 20 50

R20 Newsboard. 80

R30 Book Cover Board. 80

xi
Paper

Code Paper Grades

Permanent

or Alkaline 

Paper

Option

Minimum

PC

Content

Total

Recycled

Content

V10 Light-Brown (Kraft Shade) Envelope 20

V20 Writing Envelope, White & Colored 30

V40 25% Bond Envelope 25

V90 TYVEKTM Envelope 25

xii
Part 1. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

 
 
Runnability Requirements for Paper used in a Federal Printing Plant 1

 March 1, 2011 

 

 

Sizing: Paper shall be surface- and internal-sized suitable 

for satisfactory printing on both sides of the paper on highspeed heat-set web presses equipped with low VOC 

dampening systems. 

For Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds), 

the following tensile strength applies for roll paper stock. 

 35 40 50 60 70 80 

 

Tensile strength: Average not less than (kg/in) for the 

machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD) — 

MD ... 6.4 6.4 9.0 9.7 10.5 11.5 

CD ... 2.6 3.1 3.6 4.1 4.6 5.1 

Pick resistance: Sheet-fed: Average each side not less 

than 13-A Dennison wax number for sheets sizes 

exceeding 17 by 22 inches; 10-A for sheet sizes 17 by 22 

inches or less. 

Web offset paper: Average each side not less than 10-A. 

No individual specimen shall average less than 11-A, 8-A 

and 8-A, respectively. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat with either no tendency to curl or 

with a curl which can be overcome under reasonable 

working conditions. 

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, or any particles 

which will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on the blanket under 

normal press conditions. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

sizes(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four 

sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. The 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 

8-1/2 by 14 inches or less; then a tolerance of +1/32 inch 

shall be allowed. Successive sheets within any package 

shall not differ from each other by more than 1/64 inch. 

Paper with the long dimension 32 inches or less shall be 

considered square if the variation does not exceed 1/32 

inch; over 32 inches, 1/16 inch. 

Rolls: Roll width and diameter shall be as ordered. A 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed for width and 

1 inch for diameter. 

Roll winding: Roll paper shall be tightly wound at even 

tension and shall not contain more than the specified 

maximum number of splices per roll. The number of 

splices permitted per roll is determined by the roll diameter 

as ordered. On rolls 40 inches or less, a maximum of three 

splices per roll shall be allowed. On rolls over 40 inches, a 

maximum of four splices per roll shall be allowed. Splices 

shall be neatly and securely overlap-pasted and made with 

a repulpable adhesive which will not permit the splice to 

separate while passing through a drying oven maintained 

at 200 o

C. The adhesive may be applied from a tape form 

backing, provided the backing is removed, leaving only the 

adhesive component of the splice. The adhesive shall not 

cause the splice to adhere to adjacent laps. The tails of the 

splices shall be neatly and evenly removed without 

damage to adjacent laps. Splices shall be flagged at both 

ends with projecting colored markers, not pasted to the 

splice or otherwise clearly marked. 

Grain: Direction of the grain on flat paper shall be as 

ordered. 

Color: Shall match the Government’s standard sample for 

color. A deviation of DE(CIELAB) = 0.5 from the color 

standard is allowed. As appropriate the CIELAB values 

(Ill D65, 10o

 observer) for the color standard will be 

specified in the solicitation. The common color standards 

are found in Part 3. 

 The paper in the order (or publication) shall be uniform 

and the color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 

1.0. 

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of this paper will be 

used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained at 24 o

C 

+2 o

C and 45% +8% relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

VOC = Volatile organic compounds; refers to organic chemical compounds which have significant vapor pressures and can 

affect the environment and human health. 

__________ 

1 Previously these requirements were “below the line” and prefaced with the statement: “Unless otherwise specified, the 

following is automatically waived when printing or duplicating is to be accomplished on commercial contract.” 

 

3 
 
JCP A10 Newsprint March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For minimum quality face and back offset printing of catalogs, pamphlets, newsletter, newspapers, etc., of a non-permanent 

nature. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 65-line screen halftones. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 40% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 40 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds).................... 25 28 30 32 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Tensile strength: Average machine 

direction (kg/in) ....................... 3.9 4.5 5.0 5.5 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams)....... 18 20 22 24 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................ 87 89 90 91 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) .................... 85 87 88 89 

Thickness: Average (mils) .. ....... 2.8 3.0 3.2 3.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 53% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

5 
JCP A25 Heat-set Web Offset Machine-finish Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For simultaneous face and back, blanket to blanket, web offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, periodicals, etc. Low 

bulk. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The total 

lignin content of the paper shall not exceed 3% of the fiber 

weight. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .................................................. 35 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) .................................................... 11 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .......... 84 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ..........................................

 

 82 

Thickness: Average (mils) ..........................

 

 2.2 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

No individual specimen shall exceed (mils) ...... 2.8 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

6 
JCP A50 Machine-finish Book End March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For end leaves of bound books, some of which may be printed by the offset process. Printed matter may include line 

illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 10%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................................. 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction 

not less than (M.I.T. double folds) .................. 30 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 72% +2% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in the 

basic standard above.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

7 
JCP A55 Heat-set Web Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper (for in-plant use) FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For simultaneous face and back, web offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, folders, circular, etc. The 40-pound stock 

may not be suitable for solid reverses or heavy halftones. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 

150-line screen. Slitting and pasting and/or cross perforating are included in press capabilities. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The total 

lignin content of the paper shall not exceed 3% of the fiber 

weight. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than .... 6.5 

Sizing: Paper shall be surface- and internal-sized suitable 

for satisfactory printing on both sides of the paper on highspeed heat-set web presses equipped with low VOC 

dampening systems. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............ 40 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Tensile strength: Average not less than— 

Machine direction (kg/in) ...... 6.4 9.0 9.7 10.5 11.5 

Cross direction (kg/in) ......... 3.1 3.6 4.1 4.6 5.1 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ...................... 13 15 18 22 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 86 89 91 92 94 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ..... 84 87 89 90 92 

Thickness: Average (mils)..... 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number 

No individual specimen shall average less than 8-A 

Dennison wax number 

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, or any particles 

which will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on the blanket under 

normal press conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. A deviation of DE(CIELAB) = 0.5 

from the color standard is allowed. 

For information, the CIELAB values (Ill D65, 10o

 observer) 

of the color standard are 

L* = 93.3 

a* = 1.0 

b* = _

2.0 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of this paper will be 

used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained at 24o

C

+2o

C and 45% +8% relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

VOC = Volatile organic compounds; refers to organic chemical compounds which have significant vapor pressures and can 

affect the environment and human health. 

 

 

8 
JCP A60 Offset Book 1

 March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back multicolor offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, folders, circular, etc. The 40-pound stock may not 

be suitable for solid reverses or heavy halftones. The 80-pound paper is for use in printing posters and similar work and not for 

books, pamphlets and the like. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The total 

lignin content of the paper shall not exceed 3% of the fiber 

weight. 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 30 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............... 402

 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) .................. 13 15 18 22 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 86 89 91 92 94 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ...... 84 87 89 90 92 

Thickness: Average (mils)..... 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

__________ 

1 Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in the 

solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for higher postconsumer fiber content and/or total “recycled” fiber content. 2

 This weight may not be readily available in less than mill run quantities. 

 

9 
JCP A61 No. 1 Offset Book, Smooth-finish March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Lower bulk. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............ 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ............ 21 25 29 33 

Opacity: Average not less 

than (percent) .................... 92 93 94 95 

No individual specimen 

shall average less than 

(percent) .......................... 90 91 92 93 

Thickness: Average (mils) ... 3.5 4.1 4.9 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

 (Sheffield units) ....................................... 140 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 83% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform with a smoothfinish. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in the 

basic standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points, is encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision 

requirements” of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

 

10 
JCP A63 Offset Book, Colored March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back multicolor offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, circulars, etc., light colors suitable for printing solid 

reverses or heavy halftones. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid 

reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............. 501

 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

Less than (lb/in2

) ............... 16 19 22 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ......................... 90 92 93 94 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ... 88 90 91 92 

Thickness: Average (mils) ... 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. The color shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Note: This property is automatically waived when the 

ordering agency has specified a sheet with “fibers” or 

“specks” in the paper surface.

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supply paper stock 

for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

__________ 

1

 This weight may not be readily available in less than mill run quantities. 

 

11 

 
JCP A65 Light-weight Uncoated Groundwood Paper March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, periodicals, etc. of a non-permanent nature. Low bulk. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 120-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 40% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 40 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................................. 35 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) .................................................... 11 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .......... 88 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ........................................... 86 

Thickness: Average (mils) ........................ 2.6 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 70% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Paper shall have an English-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

12 
JCP A70 100% Recycled Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For minimum quality face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, folders, circulars, open forms, etc. of a nonpermanent nature. Printed forms are suitable for execution with ball point and felt tip pens. Low brightness may be specified

and the stock may contain foreign or “dirt” particles embedded in the paper surface. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations. 

Stock1

: Not less than 100% total recovered fiber of which 

at least 50% shall be postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 50 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 

inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............ 402

 452 502 60 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: 

Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ...... 2 13 15 18 21 24 30 

Opacity: Average 

not less than 

(percent) ......... 87 88 90 92 94 95 96 

No individual 

specimen shall 

average less 

than (percent) ..... 85 86 88 90 92 93 94 

Thickness: Average 

(mils) .............. 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.8 5.6 6.4 8.8 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Note: This property is automatically waived when ruling 

and writing quality is not a requirement of the paper’s 

intended use. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

__________ 

1

Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in the 

solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for higher postconsumer fiber content. 2

These weights may not be readily available in less than mill run quantities. 

 

13 
JCP A72 Flexural Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For minimum quality face and back offset printing of catalogs, pamphlets, newsletter, newspapers, etc., of a non-permanent 

nature. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 120-line screen. Particularly suited for adhesive 

bound publications capable of laying flat when in an open position. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not to exceed 75% ground woodpulp; the 

remainder chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds)................................. 27 35 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness (flexibility): Average cross 

direction not to exceed (milligrams) ........ 40 40 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) .................................... 9 11 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................................ 84 84 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ........................... 82 82 

Thickness: Average (mils).... ............ 2.4 2.7 

A tolerance of +0.0002 inch and –0.0004 inch shall be 

allowed. Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more 

than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall be not less than 59% or as specified. 

 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

14 
JCP A75 Light-weight Offset Book (Bible Paper) March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalog, folders, circulars, etc. Low bulk. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................................. 30 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ................................................... 15 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ......... 88 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Thickness: Average (mils) ......................... 2.1 

A tolerance of +0.0001 inch and –0.0002 inch shall be 

allowed. 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ..................................... 90 to 60 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in the 

basic standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Postconsumer fiber, in any percentage, is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

_________ 

 1 This is a specialty grade with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for this grade is not practicable for cost 

and technological reasons. 

15 
JCP A80 Opacified Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, 

line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The total 

lignin content of the paper shall not exceed 3% of the fiber 

weight. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 401

 501 60 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ............................... 16 20 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ..................................... 89 91 93 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ............. 87 89 91 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............ 3.0 3.9 4.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in 

the basic standard above.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points, is encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

 

__________ 

1

 These weights may not be readily available in less than mill run quantities. 

 

16 
JCP A90 Vellum-finish Book, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds).................. 501

 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ........................... 19 23 27 31 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................. 92 93 94 95 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ................... 90 91 92 93 

Thickness: Average (mils)... ...... 4.3 5.1 5.9 6.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 81% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a vellum-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in the 

basic standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supply paper stock 

for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

 

__________ 

1

 This weight may not be readily available in less than mill run quantities. 

17 
JCP A91 Smooth and Fancy-finish Text, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, brochures, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses on the smooth-finish stock. Standard allows for 

unique finishes for special print requirements.

 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................... 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams)........ 25 28 35 

Opacity: For white paper only, 

average not less than (percent) ......... 94 95 97 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ........................ 92 93 95 

Thickness: For the smooth-finish 

stock, average (mils) .................... 5.5 6.3 7.9 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed for the 70- 

and 80-pound stock; +0.0005 inch for the 100-pound stock. 

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 88% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a smooth-finish or as specified 

(linen, leatherette, felt, etc.) 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper 

shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample 

sheet (600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one 

defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below in the 

basic standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supply paper stock 

for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

Cleanliness: The requirement is automatically waived when the ordering agency specifies a paper with fibers or specks in the 

paper surface. 

18
JCP A95 Hi-bulk Offset (Return Mailer) March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of return mailers. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line 

screen and solid reverses. Grade complies with the U.S. Postal Service minimum caliper (thickness) requirement for return 

mailers. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................................. 70 

A tolerance of +10% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) .................................................... 19 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .......... 91 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ........................................... 89 

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) ........... 7.0 

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge. 

Note: Any specimen averaging less the 0.0070 inch shall 

be sufficient cause for rejection of the paper. 

 

Porosity: Average not to exceed (seconds) ......... 25

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

 

 

19 
JCP A100 Antique Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, brochures, etc. Has a rough, soft finish, particularly 

suited for publications with extensive reading matter. High bulk. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ..... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 45 60 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ............................... 13 18 21 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ..................................... 89 91 94 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ............. 87 89 92 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............. 3.9 5.1 5.9 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 72% +2% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

20 
JCP A110 50% Antique Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of books, catalogs, pamphlets, etc. requiring above average durability and 

permanence. Has a rough, soft finish particularly suited for publications with extensive reading matter. High bulk. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ............... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) .. 40 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 13 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .......... 89 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) ................................................ 87 

Thickness: Average (mils) ......................... 3.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 72% +2% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

21 
JCP A120 50% Laid-antique Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of pamphlets, brochures, invitations, programs, etc., requiring attractive 

appearance and/or above average durability and above average permanence. Has a rough, soft finish with decorative chain 

marks running at right angles to the laid lines. High bulk. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 

150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ............... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) .. 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) .... 19 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .............. 90 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) ..................................................... 88 

Thickness: Average (mils) .......................... 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 72% +2% or as specified. 

 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

22 
JCP A150 Uncoated Vegetable-fiber Book 1

 March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, 

halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. This is environmentally-preferable paper of which fifty percent of the fiber 

content is a renewable fiber. 

Stock: Not less than 50% chemical vegetable fiber pulp 

not woodpulp; the remainder chemical pulp. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Note: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 50 60 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ............................... 15 18 22 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ..................................... 89 91 92 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ............ 87 89 90 

Thickness: Average (mils).... .......... 3.9 4.7 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification. 

 

__________ 

1

 This is a specialty grade is a specialty sheet and available in limited quantities. Postconsumer fiber content for this grade is 

not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

23 
JCP A160 Coated One-side Text (C1S) March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper (interim) FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of posters, envelopes, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, 

halftones up to 150-line screen and solids. Coated side is for 4-color process printing. 

Stock: Free from ground and unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 

sheets ............................. 60 

 A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 70 80 100 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less than 

(grams) ............................. 40 50 55 60 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........ ................... 90 91 92 94 

 No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent)...... 88 89 90 92 

Thickness: Average (mils) ...... 3.2 3.9 4.5 5.2 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss of coated side (75o

): Average not less than 

(percent)... .............................................. 60 

Smoothness of coating: Average not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ................. .............. 55 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness of coated side: Average not less than 85% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall NOT apply. 

 

 

24 
JCP A170 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, catalogs, brochures, folders, circulars, 

etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 10 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .......................................... 50 60 

 A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ... ............................. ...... 11 13 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent).... 91 92 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ..................................... 89 90 

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) .... 2.6 3.0 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

 (percent) ................................................... 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ........................................... 65 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

25 
JCP A175 (Publication Grade) Gloss Coated Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing. Grade suited for long run of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 10 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) .. 38 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 11 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ............. 89 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) .................................................... 87 

Thickness: Average (mils) .......... .................. 2.2 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

(percent) .................................................... 40 

 

Smoothness of coating: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) .................................. 65 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 70% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

26 
JCP A180 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Printed matter

may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp, not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ....................................... 601

 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) .......................................... 13 20 30 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) . 92 93 94 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ................................. 90 91 92 

Thickness: Average (mils) ................. 3.0 3.3 3.6 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less 

than (percent) ............................................ 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ........................................ 55 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply excepted as noted in the specification. 

 

 

 

__________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

27 
JCP A181 No. 1 Coated Text, Gloss-finish March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............................ 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ........................ 20 30 40 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 94 95 96 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ............... 92 93 94 

Thickness: Average (mils) .... 3.3 3.7 4.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

(percent) ............................ ............... 65 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) .................................... 45 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 25 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall NOT apply. 

 

 

28 
JCP A182 No. 2 Coated Text, Gloss-finish March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ......................... 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ........................... 21 31 40 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................ 94 95 96 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ..................... 92 93 94 

Thickness: Average (mils) .......... 3.3 3.7 4.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

 (seconds) ....................... .......................... 60 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

 (Sheffield units) ......................................... 55 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 84% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 50 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall NOT apply. 

 

 

29 
JCP A205 Litho (Gloss) Coated Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing, principally of maps and charts, covers for books, etc. Good folding endurance. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Free from ground and unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) .. 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction not 

less than (MIT double folds) ............................ 100 

Note: Precision Part 4 applies for this property. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 29 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ............. 93 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) .................................................... 91 

Thickness: Average, not less than (mils)............. 3.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than (percent). 50 

 

 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ......................................... 65 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water then allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 50 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

30 
JCP A220 Water-resistant (Text) Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, manuals, etc. requiring water-resistant properties. Printed

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Ground or unbleached chemical woodpulp, singly 

or mixed not to exceed 5%; the remainder bleached 

chemical pulp. The use of melamine-formaldehyde or any 

mater that releases formaldehyde into the atmosphere at 

concentration of 0.1 part per million or greater shall not be 

permitted in the manufacture of this paper. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.7. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds).............................................. 60 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(Dry, lb/in2

) ......................................... 30 

(Wet, lb/in2

) ......................................... 13 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ...... 90 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) ............................................. 88 

Thickness: Average (mils) ...................... 4.1 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Water resistance: Average each side not less 

than (seconds) ....................................... 60 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ..................................... 110 to 60 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water than allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 72% +2% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

31 
JCP A230 High Yield Opaque Offset (Light Coating) March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper (interim) FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Light coating provides a better print quality. Good yield. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and light halftones. A mill run grade. 

.

Stock: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 

inches, 500 sheets (pounds)... 35 38 40 45 50 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ........... 11 12 13 15 16 

 

Opacity: Average, not less 

than (percent) .................. 86 87 88 90 91 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ... 84 85 86 88 89 

 

Thickness: Average (mils).. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.6 4.0 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (units) .......... 5 to 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ...................................... 150 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing:Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision” 

requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Coating: This grade has at least 3 pounds of coating per side; request a certification from the supplier as to the type and 

amount of coating used in manufacturing the paper. 

 

 

 

 

32 
JCP A235 (Publication Grade) Matte Coated Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and light 

halftones. Grade suited for long runs. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ......... 40 50 60 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ......... 8 11 15 25 

Opacity: Average not less 

than (percent) ................. 91 91 92 93 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ... 89 89 90 91 

Thickness: Average (mils) .. 2.5 3.1 3.7 4.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (units) ....... 10 to 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) .................................. 120 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

33 
JCP A240 Matte Coated Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of maps, books, pamphlets, periodicals, brochures, etc., and for high quality 

reproduction of satellite and high altitude imagery. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to175-line 

screen and reproduction of continuous-tone imagery by a random dot process. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ......... 601

 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance2

: Average each 

direction not less than 

(MIT double fold) ............. 20 20 20 20 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ................ 15 25 35 40 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ......................... 93 94 95 96 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ... 91 92 93 95 

Thickness: Average (mils) ... 3.7 4.3 4.9 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) ................................................ 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ...................................... 120 

Oil holdout: There shall be no oil penetration at 200 

seconds on either side of the sheet. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

Coating: This grade is a “fully” coated sheet with at least 5 pounds of coating per side. As appropriate, request a certification 

from the supplier as to the type and amount of coating used in the manufacturing the paper. 

__________ 

 1 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

 2 This property is automatically waived if the end product is not a map or map-like document. 

34 
JCP A250 Laid-finish Book, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of pamphlets, brochures, invitations, programs, etc., requiring 

attractive appearance. Has a rough, soft finish with decorative chain marks running at right angles to laid lines. High bulk. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5 for white 

paper and 5.0 for colored paper. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds)......................................... 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ........................................... 19 22 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent).. 91 93 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) .................................. 89 91 

Thickness: Average (mils) ................. 6.5 7.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall have a target brightness 

not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

 

35 
JCP A260 Dull Coated Offset Book March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, periodicals, brochures, etc. and for high quality reproduction 

of satellite and high altitude imagery. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to175-line screen and 

reproduction of continuous-tone imagery by a random dot process. Low glare, suited for heavy text. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .................................. 601 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ........................... 15 25 35 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................ 93 94 95 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ..................... 91 92 93 

Thickness: Average (mils) ... 3.0 3.5 4.1 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (percent) ..... 25 to 40 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) .................................... 60 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

__________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

36 
JCP A261 No. 1 Coated Text, Dull-finish March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low 

glare. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .................................... 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

 than (lb/in2

) ............................... 25 35 45 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent).................................... 94 95 96 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent)......................... 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............. 

 92 

 3.5 

 93 

 4.1 

 94 

 4.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less 

than (percent) ............................ ........... 30 to 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

Exceed (Sheffield units) ........................... 50 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 25 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall NOT apply. 

 

 

37 
JCP A262 No. 2 Coated Text, Dull-finish March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low 

glare. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................... 70 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ............................... 25 35 45 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent).................................... 94 95 96 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent)......................... 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............. 

 92 

 3.5 

 93 

 4.1 

 94 

 4.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

(percent) ............................................ 25 to 45 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ................................... 60 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 84% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 50 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall NOT apply. 

 

 

 

38 
JCP A270 Uncoated Permanent Book, White and Cream White1 March 1, 2011 

Printing Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, etc. requiring the highest degree of permanence (archival quality.) 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The composition of the filler shall include 

not less than 2.0% calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............... 30 40 50 60 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average 

each side not less than 

(MIT double folds) ............... 30 30 30 30 30 

Note: Any deviation from requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less (grams) ...... 25 33 40 50 60 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 84 86 89 91 92 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ..... 82 84 87 89 90 

Thickness: Average (mils) .... 2.2 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed for the 30- 

and 40-pound stocks and +0.0005 inch for the 50-, 60- and 

70 pound. Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more 

than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% for the white shade and 72 

+2% for the cream white or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing:Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision” 

requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in 

the document or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended. 

__________ 

1

 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities. 

39 

 

 
JCP D10 Writing, White and Colored 1

 March 1, 2011 

Writing Paper with Tablet Stock Option FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing. The 12-pound paper is used on open forms, including multiple copies, one side only. The 

16-pound and heavier are used in printing books, pamphlets, catalog, open forms, etc. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and ruled forms. Halftones and reverse prints may be included on the 20-pound paper. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............ 12 16 18 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average 

each direction not less 

than (MIT double fold) ...... 7 8 8 9 

Opacity2

: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................ na 83 84 85 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ... na 81 82 83 

Thickness: Average (mils) .. na 3.0 na 3.8 

A tolerance of +0.0004 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 79% 

or as specified. 

Color3

: The paper shall be uniform and the color variation 

shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness2

: The dirt count for each side of the paper 

shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample 

sheet (600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one 

defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

__________ 

1

 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities. 2

 This property is automatically waived if the end use is to produce “scratch” pads, tablets for 1-sided use and of a temporary 

nature, etc. 

3

 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these color 

standards are available in mill run quantities. 

41 
JCP D11 Smooth and Fancy-finish Writing Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor face and back offset printing of stationery, letterheads, certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., 

requiring execution with pen and ink and suitable for processing in a laser printer. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and ruled forms. Grade allows for unique finishes for special print requirements. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............................................ 24 28 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction 

not less than (MIT double folds)................ 12 14 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ..... 89 90 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ..................................... 87 88 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with pen and ink shall be clear-cut and free from 

excessive feathering. 

 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl, which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 88% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a smooth-finish or as specified 

(linen, leatherette, felt, etc.). 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

__________ 

 1

Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in 

the solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for higher postconsumer fiber content or total recycled fiber content. 

42 
JCP D50 100% Fine Writing March 1, 2011 

Writing Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality offset printing and embossing of stationery, letterheads, certificates, citations, diplomas, etc. requiring

execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, permanence and suitable for processing in a laser printer. The paper is restricted to 

printing of stationery for use by officials at the highest level of Government. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ....... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds)..................................................... 28 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 47 

Writing quality: Characters written with pen and ink 

shall be clear-cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl, which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

four stars and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style C or F.) 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

__________ 

1

 This grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture 

of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Fullsize copy will be provided upon request. The selection of Style C or F watermark depends on the presence of 

postconsumer recovered fiber in the paper. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than 

mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

43 
 
JCP E10 50% Map, Lithographic-finish March 1, 2011 

Map Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc., requiring good folding endurance and permanence. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical woodpulp. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 5.0. Rosin 

content shall not exceed 1.5% for papers with pH values 

less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................... 16 20 28 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Folding endurance: Average each 

direction not less than (MIT double 

fold) ........................................ 75 75 75 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............. 2.6 3.0 3.9 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ................................................... 85 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt shall be clear cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit redrawing of 

sharp lines in ink. 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water then allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 80%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% +5% at 23 o

C +2 oC for the production of maps. As appropriate, request a 

certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets requirement. 

 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 

 

45 
JCP E20 High-wet Strength Map, Lithographic-finish March 1, 2011 

Map Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc. Has good folding endurance. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The use of 

melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration of 0.1 

ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the manufacture of 

this paper 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber for the 20-

pound stock and 20% postconsumer fiber for the 24-pound 

stock. Any percent over the 10 and 20 percentage points 

are encouraged for the 20- and 24-pound stock, 

respectively, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.5. 

 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............................................ 20 24 

 

Wet tensile strength: Average not less than — 

(Machine direction, kg/in) ....................... 5.1 5.9 

(Cross direction, kg/in) ........................... 3.4 4.1 

 

Folding endurance: Average each 

direction not less than (MIT double fold) ... 300 700 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than — 

(Dry lb/in2

) ........................................ 40 50 

(Wet lb/in2

) ....................................... 18 21 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ... 90 91 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ..................................... 88 89 

 

Thickness: Average (mils) .................... . 3.7 4.1 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Water resistance: Average not less than 

(seconds) .......................................... 35 40 

 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units).................................. 110 to 70 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt shall be clear cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit redrawing of 

sharp lines in ink. 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water then allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 79%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% +5% at 23 o

C +2 oC for the production of maps. As appropriate, request a 

certification from the supplier and/or prior-to shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets requirement. 

 

46 
JCP E30 Offset Map, Lithographic-finish March 1, 2011 

Map Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. The use of 

melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentrations of 0.1 

ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the manufacture of 

this paper. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ........ 4.8 

 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............... 401 50 60 70 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average 

each direction not less than (MIT 

double folds) .................... 30 30 

 

 35 40 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than 

(grams) .............................. 30 40 50 60 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ............................ 88 89 91 92 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ......... 86 87 89 90 

Thickness: Average (mils) ....... 3.0 3.5 4.1 4.9 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

one edge to the other. 

Water resistance: Average each 

side not less than (seconds) ........ 20 25 30 35 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ........................... 140 to 80 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt shall be clear cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit redrawing of 

sharp lines in ink. 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water then allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing:Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision” 

requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% +5% at 23 o

C +2 oC for the production of maps. As appropriate, request a 

certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets requirement. 

__________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

 

47 
JCP E40 Chemical Wood Map, Lithographic-finish March 1, 2011 

Map Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc., and requiring good folding endurance. Printed matter 

may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. The use of 

melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration of 0.1 

ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the manufacture of 

this paper. 

Note: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.8. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ........................................ 20 22 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Wet tensile strength: Average not less than — 

(Machine direction, kg/in) .................... 1.4 1.8 

(Cross direction, kg/in) ....................... 0.64 0.9 

Folding endurance: Average each 

direction not less than (MIT double fold) .. 150 175 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than — 

(Dry lb/in2

) ..................................... 30 33 

(Wet lb/in2

) .................................... 3.0 3.3 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent).. 90 91 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) .................................. 88 89 

Thickness: Average (mils) ................ 3.5 3.7 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Water resistance: Average each side not 

less than (seconds) ............................... 25 30 

 

Smoothness: Average each side 

 (Sheffield units) ................................. 110 to 80 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit redrawing of 

sharp lines in ink. 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water than allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% +5% at 23 o

C +2 oC for the production of maps. As appropriate, request a 

certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets requirement. 

 

 

48 
JCP E50 50% Chart, Lithographic-finish March 1, 2011 

Map Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc. Has good folding endurance and above average 

permanence. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line. A mill run grade. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen; the remainder 

bleached chemical woodpulp. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 5.0. The rosin content shall not exceed 2% for 

stock with pH value less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds).......................................... 36 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction

not less than (MIT double fold) .............. 300 

Thickness: Average (mils) .................. 5.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ....................................... 110 to 70 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt shall be clear cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit redrawing of 

sharp lines in ink. 

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being wet 

with water then allowed to dry in contact with other sheets 

of the same paper. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 80%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% +5% at 23 o

C +2 oC for the production of maps. As appropriate, request a 

certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets requirement. 

 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 

 

49 
 
JCP F10 Manifold, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Manifold Paper FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For offset printing, generally face only, of multiform and for multiple copies of correspondence. Light weight, low bulk and 

low opacity. Printed matter may include text and light line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp . 

Note1

:Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................................................... 9 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) .. 7 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 79% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper shall be uniform and the color variation 

shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper 

shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample 

sheet (600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one 

defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add properties below in the basic 

standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

_________ 

 1 This is a specialty grade, available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for this 

grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

51 
JCP F30 25% Glazed Manifold, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Manifold Paper FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For offset printing, generally face only, of multiform or as a cover for documents, maps, etc. Has above average permanence, 

low weight, low bulk and low opacity. Printed matter may include text and light line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note1

:Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .................................................... 8 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 10 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 80% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper shall be uniform and the color variation 

shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper 

shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample 

sheet (600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one 

defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

_________ 

 1 This is a specialty grade, available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for this 

grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

52 
JCP G05 Chemical Wood Forms Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face only offset and flexographic printing of marginally punched continuous open forms, including multiple copies 

principally on web-type presses. Printed matter may include ruled forms with text, line illustrations and continuous tones. 

Slitting and pasting are included in press capabilities. End use of the paper is generally on impact-type computer printers, 

mechanical bursters and decollators. 

Stock: Ground wood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 

22 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ..... 9/10 11/12/13 15/16 18 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: 

Average not less 

than lb/in2

) ........... 6 8 9 

 

12 15 

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number. No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A. 

Opacity: Average 

not less than 

(percent) .............

 

78 

 

 79 80 81 82 

No individual 

specimen shall 

average less than 

(percent) ............. 76 

 

 77 78 79 80 

Thickness: Average 

(mils) ................ 2.4 2.4 3.0 3.3 3.7 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 79% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

53 
JCP G10 Bond March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of stationery, circulars, open forms, etc.; requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, 

and suitable for processing in a laser printer. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ....... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ....................................... 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction 

not less than (MIT double fold) ............ 30 35 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ....................................... 84 85 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ................................. 82 83 

Thickness: Average (mils) ................ 3.7 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

54 
JCP G15 50% Recycled Forms Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face only offset and flexographic printing of marginally punched continuous open forms, including multiple copies, 

principally on web-type presses. Printed matter may include ruled forms with text, line illustrations and continuous tones. 

Slitting and pasting are included in press capabilities. End use of the paper is generally on impact-type computer printers, 

mechanical bursters and decollators. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. Recovered 

fiber in any percent over 50 percentage points are 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ........ 10 12 15 18 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ........ 6 8 9 12 15 

Pick resistance: Average, each side, not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number. No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A. 

Opacity: Average not less 

than (percent) ............... 80 81 81 82 82 

No individual specimen 

shall average less than 

(percent) ..................... 78 79 79 80 80 

Thickness: Average 

(mils) ......................... 2.6 2.8 3.5 4.1 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 77% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

55 
JCP G16 50% Recycled Forms Bond, Natural March 1, 2011

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face only offset and flexographic printing of marginally punched continuous open forms, including multiple copies, 

principally on web-type presses. Printed matter may include ruled forms with text, line illustrations and continuous tones. 

Slitting and pasting are included in press capabilities. End use of the paper is generally on impact-type computer printers, 

mechanical bursters and decollators. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. Recovered 

fiber, in any percent over 50 percentage points are 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ....... 10 12 15 18 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ....... 6 8 9 12 15 

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number. No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A. 

Opacity: Average not less 

than (percent) ............ 80 81 82 82 83 

No individual specimen 

shall average less than 

(percent) ................. 78 79 80 80 81 

Thickness: Average 

(mils) .................... 2.6 2.8 3.5 4.1 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Paper shall target 59%, -1% and +5% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

 

 

56 
JCP G40 25% Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper Archival Quality FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality offset printing. The 16- and 20-pound white papers are for stationery face only. Colored stock is used for open 

forms, legal documents, ledgers, etc. Suitable for face and back offset printing, processing through high speed copiers and 

laser printers, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and permanence (archival quality). Opacity of white paper 

is not a specified property and therefore, subject to variation. Printed matter may include text and light line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical woodpulp 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 16 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ................ 75 75 80 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ......... 33 40 45 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

one star and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style D.) 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 82% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing:Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision” 

requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in 

the document or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended. 

 __________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

 

57

JCP G45 25% Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper 50% Recycled FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality offset printing open forms, stationery, face only on the 16- and 20-pound paper and face and back on the 24-

pound. Suitable for processing through high speed copiers and laser printers, requiring execution with pen and ink and erasing

quality. Opacity of white paper is not a specified property and therefore, subject to variation. Printed matter may include text 

and light line illustrations. The 24-pound paper is suitable for imaging face and back. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%; the remainder chemical pulp. 

Note1

: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 

30 percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber, in any percent over 30 percentage 

points, is encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 16 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ............... 14 18 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) ....................................... 240 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

one star and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style D.) 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 82% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Fullsize copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

58 
JCP G50 25% Translucent Bond March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For offset printing, generally face only on open master forms, etc., which are used for duplicating in the ammonia process of 

reproduction. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than 5.0. The average 

rosin content shall not exceed 2% for papers with pH value 

less 6.5. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) ... 16 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average each direction not 

less than (MIT double folds) ............................... 75 

Opacity: Average not to exceed (percent) .............. 70 

Note: this paper should freely transmit ultra-violet light in 

near visible portions of the spectrum. It should retain its 

ultra-violet light transparency with age, remaining free 

from that degree of discoloration, which would materially 

reduce its printing speed. If treated to aid transparency, 

the materials used shall not cause bleeding or feather of 

the image nor offsetting in the files. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked. 

 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 80% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

__________ 

 1 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for 

this grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

59 
JCP G60 25% Opacified Bond March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper Archival Quality FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality face and back offset printing of stationery, open forms, etc. Suitable for processing through high speed 

copiers and laser printers with imaging on both face and back, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, 

permanence (archival quality) and greater opacity than obtainable in Standard JCP G40 or G45. Printed matter may include 

text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical woodpulp 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 30 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............................ 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ...................... 75 80 

Tearing strength: Average each direction 

not less than (grams) .................. ........ 40 45 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .. 86 88 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ................................... 84 86 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

one star and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style D.) 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing:Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision” 

requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in 

the document or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended. 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

60

JCP G65 25% Opacified Bond, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper 50% Recycled FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality face and back offset printing of stationery, open forms, etc. Suitable for processing through high speed 

copiers and laser printers with imaging on both face and back, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and 

permanence (archival quality). Has a greater opacity than Standards JCP G40 or G45. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%; the remainder bleached 

chemical pulp 

Note: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber, in any percent over 30 percentage 

points, is encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than ... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............................. 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ....................... 18 20 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .. 88 90 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ................................... 86 88 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ...................... 270 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

one star and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style D.) 

 

Curl: Paper shall like flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall have a target brightness 

not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stocked, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

61 
JCP G70 50% Bond March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality offset printing of stationery for use by officials at the higher levels of Government, requiring execution with 

pen and ink, erasing quality, above average permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed matter may 

include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber, in any percent over 30 percentage 

points, is encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)...................... 16 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ............... 60 75 85 

 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ..................... 370 to 325 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasures. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

two stars and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style E.) 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

62
JCP G80 100% Bond March 1, 2011 

Bond Paper FSC 7530 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality offset printing and embossing of stationery used by officials at the highest level of Government, requiring

execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed matter may 

include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible, provided the increase in reflectance measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ........... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)............................ 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ...................... 400 400 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and writing 

quality, texture and surface appearance, without ink 

spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

four stars and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. 

The watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed 

from the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style C or F.) 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

 

__________ 

1

 Note, this grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were

recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. The selection of Style C or F watermark depends on the presence of 

postconsumer recovered fiber in the paper. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than 

mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

63 
 
JCP H10 100% Parchment Deed March 1, 2011 

Parchment Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, 

permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. A mill run 

grade. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than .............. 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets (pounds).. 32 

 A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) ....................................... 400 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 80% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Paper shall have a cockle finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

__________ 

1 Note, this grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were 

recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 

65
JCP H20 Cream White 100% Artificial Parchment March 1, 2011 

Parchment Paper FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, enrolled bills, etc. requiring processing in copiers and 

laser printers, execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed

matter may include text, line illustrations and suitable for embossing. A mill run grade. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than .......... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)................................... 47 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

).............................................. 40 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 60% or as specified. 

 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Sheffield smoothness not less than 250 units each 

side. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

___________ 

1

 Note, this grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were

recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 

 

66 
JCP H30 Imitation Parchment, Laser-finish, White, Natural White, and Colored March 11, 2011 

Parchment Paper Archival Quality Option FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality offset printing of announcements, certificates, citations, diplomas, enrolled bills, etc., requiring processing in 

copiers and laser printers, execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, and highest degree of permanence (archival quality) 

when specified. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and suitable for embossing. The archival paper is available 

in limited quantities. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds).................. 24 32 47 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Folding endurance: Average not less 

than (MIT double folds) ............ 28 30 30 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 79% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION 

Archival paper. This option is for products requiring permanence (archival quality). Add the properties below in the basic 

standard above. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each direction 

not less than (grams) ..................... 50 70 100 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in 

the document or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended. 

 

 

67 

JCP H40 Cream White Diploma Paper, Smooth-finish March 1, 2011 

Parchment Paper Archival Quality Option FSC 9310 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality 

and highest degree of permanence (archival quality) when specified. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

suitable for processing in laser printers. The archival paper is available in limited quantities. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds)................................... 47 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

).............................................. 45 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 60% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Sheffield smoothness not to exceed 250 units each 

side. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Archival paper. This option is for products requiring permanence (archival quality). Add the properties below in the basic 

standard above. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each direction 

not less than (grams) ..................... 50 70 100 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in 

the document or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended. 

 

 

 

 

68 

JCP J10 Ledger, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Ledger Paper FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of open forms, ledgers, notices, posters, etc. requiring execution with pen and ink and erasing 

quality. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. The total 

lignin content of the paper shall not exceed 3% of the fiber 

weight. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5 for white paper 

and 5.0 for colored paper 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .... ...... 24 28 32 44 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ........... 22 25 28 37 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less 

than (grams) ................... 35 50 60 90 

Thickness: Average 

(mils) ........................... 4.0 4.7 5.3 7.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 81% 

or as specified. 

Color1

: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace / add the properties below to the 

basic standard above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 __________ 

1

 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these color 

standards are available in mill run quantities. 

69 
JCP J20 25% Ledger March 1, 2011 

Ledger Paper FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor, face and back, offset printing of open forms, ledgers, notices, posters, legal documents, etc., 

requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, halftones and solid reverses. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 30 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ......... 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .... .............. 24 32 44 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) .................. 25 34 47 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ..... 35 60 80 

Thickness: Average (mils) ........ 4.0 5.3 7.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

one star and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style D.) 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 80%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 __________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less 

than mill run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

 

70 
JCP J30 100% Ledger March 1, 2011 

Ledger Paper FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of open forms, ledgers, certificates, citations, diplomas, legal 

documents, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and permanence. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ............. 6.5 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .... ............ 24 32 44 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ................ 50 70 95 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) .... 50 65 90 

Thickness: Average (mils) ....... 4.0 5.3 7.3 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture, and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

Watermark2

: Shall be the seal of the United States, with 

four stars and year of manufacture, on the basis of four 

times on a sheet 17 by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The 

watermark shall be clear and legible. When viewed from 

the felt side of the sheet, the design shall appear as 

illustrated in Part 3 (Style C or F.) 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 80%. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

__________ 

1

 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities. The grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber 

content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer,

the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. The selection of Style C or F watermark depends on the presence of 

postconsumer recovered fiber in the paper. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering 

agency. 

 

71 
 
JCP K10 Index, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Index Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of card indexes, identification cards, office forms, notices, posters, covers, etc., requiring 

execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, 

halftones and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5 for white paper 

and 5.0 for colored paper. 

Basis weight: 25-1/2 by 

30-1/2 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ...................... 90 110 140 170 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: 

Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ........................ 40 50 60 75 

 

Thickness: Average (mils) 7.5 9.0 11.5 13.8 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture, and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 81% 

or as specified. 

Color1

: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

OPTION

Alkaline paper. This option is for products requiring above average permanence. Replace the properties in the basic standard 

above with the ones below. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less than 

7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% calcium 

carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

__________ 

1

 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these color 

standards are available in mill run quantities. 

73 
JCP K20 25% Index, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Index Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality face and back offset printing of card indexes, identification cards, office forms, notices, posters, covers, etc., 

requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may include text, 

illustrations, halftones and solid reverses. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note1

: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 20 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5 for white paper 

and 5.0 for colored paper. The rosin content shall be less 

than 2.5% for papers with pH value less than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 25-1/2 by 

30-1/2 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ...................... 90 110 140 170 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: 

Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ........................ 40 65 85 100 

 

Thickness: Average (mils) 7.4 9.0 11.5 13.8 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed for the 90-, 

110- and 140-pound stock and +0.0008 inch for the 170-

pound stock. Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary 

more than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering 

. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling and 

writing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 80% 

or as specified. 

Color2

: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supply paper stock 

for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

 

__________ 

1

 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 2

 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these color 

standards are available in mill run quantities. 

74 
JCP K30 Cream White 100% Index March 1, 2011 

Index Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality face and back offset printing of card indexes, identification cards, office forms, etc., requiring execution 

with pen and ink, erasing quality and permanence. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations halftones and solid 

reverses. A mill run grade. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ........... 6.5 

Basis weight: 25-1/2 by 30-1/2 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................................ 125 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ................................................... 100 

Thickness: Average (mils) .......................... 10.0 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 60% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

___________ 

1

 The grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture 

of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a postconsumer recovered fiber. 

75 
 
JCP L10 Litho (Gloss) Coated Cover March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for book, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include text, 

line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................ 60/651 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ........................ 35 50 60 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ...... 75 100 120 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................ 93 94 95 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ........... 91 92 93 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

(percent) ............................ ............... 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ......................... 110 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

__________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

77 
JCP L11 No. 1 Coated Cover, Gloss-finish March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. The 60-pound 

stock is not suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line screen 

and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............. 601 80 100 

 

120 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ............. 45 55 65 75 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less than 

(grams) ............................ 80 100 120 140 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ...... 

96 

94 

 97 

 95 

 98 

 96 

 98 

 96 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less 

than (percent) ............................ ....... 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ......................... 55 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 25 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

__________ 

1

 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement; this weight is available in limited 

quantities. 

 

78 
JCP L12 No. 2 Coated Cover, Gloss-finish March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. The 60-pound stock is 

not suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line screen and

solids reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............ 601 80 100 120 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) .............. 40 50 60 70 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less than 

(grams) ........................... 80 100 120 140 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ......................... 96 96 97 98 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ...... 94 94 95 96 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not less than 

(percent).... ....................................... 50 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ......................... . 110 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 84% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 50 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 __________ 

1

 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement; this weight is available in limited 

quantities. 

79 
JCP L20 Vellum-finish Cover, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .............. 501 65 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) .............. 30 40 50 60 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less than 

(grams) .............................. 100 130 160 180 

Opacity: For white only, 

average not less than 

(percent) ............................ 94 95 96 97 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ...... 92 93 94 95 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 81% or as 

specified. 

Color2

: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the “regular” 

acceptance criterion will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and supplied paper 

stock for hue, chroma, and saturation. 

 

__________ 

1 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

2

 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: vermillion red, canary yellow, sun orange, killarney green, victoria green,

dutch blue, venice blue, peach tan, pecan brown, saddle tan, brown, light gray and sand gray. Exact matches to these color 

standards are available in mill run quantities. 

80 
JCP L21 Smooth and Fancy-finish Cover, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For higher quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses on the smooth stock. Grade allows 

for unique finishes for special print requirements. 

 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................... 65 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ......... 130 160 200 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a smooth-finish or as specified 

(linen, leatherette, felt, etc.). 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper 

shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample 

sheet (600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one 

defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

 

81 
JCP L23 Offset Cover March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .............. 50 65 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) .............. 30 40 50 60 

Tearing strength: Average 

each direction not less than 

(grams) ............................. 100 130 160 180 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 94 95 96 97 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ...... 92 93 94 95 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 83% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

82
JCP L24 Vellum-bristol Cover, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 22-1/2 by 28-1/2 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ....................... 57 67 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ................................ 28 32 40 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) .......... 90 110 135 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) .................................... 93 94 95 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ........................ 91 92 93 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 83% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0 . For colored stock, paper shall match 

one of the established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even 

and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall 

not be 2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

83 
JCP L40 Laid-finish Cover, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, pamphlets, etc. requiring 

attractive appearance. Has a rough, soft finish with decorative chain marks running at right angles to laid lines. Printed matter 

may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ............................ 65 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ................................ 25 30 40 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ........ 80 100 125 

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target 83% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0 . 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

84 
JCP L50 Matte Coated Cover March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for book, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include text, 

line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground wood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................ 60/651 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ........................ 40 50 60 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ........

 

 80 100 120 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ................................ 95 95 96 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ............ 93 93 94 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent)................................................. 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

 exceed (Sheffield units) .............................. 120 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

_____________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

85 
JCP L60 Dull Coated Cover March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for book, periodicals, etc. Low glare. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Ground wood pulp, not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 

sheets (pounds) ........................ 60/651 80 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ........................ 40 50 60 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ....... 80 100 120 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) .................................. 95 95 96 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ........... 93 93 94 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (percent) ...... 25 to 40 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ........................... 115 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

_____________ 

1

 This weight is available in limited quantities. 

86 
JCP L61 No.1 Coated Cover, Dull-finish March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. Low glare. The

60-pound stock is not suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-

line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............... 601 80 100 120 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) .................... 45 55 65 75 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than 

(grams) .............................. 80 100 120 140 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ............................. 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) ........ 

97 

95 

97 

95 

 98 

 96 

 98 

 96 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (percent)......... 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) .............................. 

30 to 50 

 60 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 25 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

__________ 

1

 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement; this weight is available in limited 

quantities. 

87 
JCP L62 No. 2 Coated Cover, Dull-finish March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For high quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. Low glare. The 60-

pound stock is not suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line 

screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5. 

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ................. 601 80 100 120 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ...................... 45 55 65 75 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than 

(grams) ............................... 80 100 120 140 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ............................... 96 96 97 98 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) .......... 94 94 95 96 

Gloss (75o

): Average each side (percent)..... 25 to 45 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) .......................... 115 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 84% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 50 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

__________ 

1

 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement; this weight is available in limited 

quantities. 

88
JCP L70 Coated One-side Cover (C1S) March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face offset printing of folders, tent cards, and covers for book, periodicals, etc. Has good strength for scoring, 

folding and die cutting. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

 8pt 10pt 12pt 15pt 24pt

Caliper: A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed for 

the 8-point paper; +0.0008 inch for the 10-, 12- and 15-

point; and +0.0010 inch for the 24-point.

Bursting strength: 

Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ..................... 40 50 60 70 120 

Tearing strength: 

Average each direction 

not less than (grams)...... 

 

 75 100 120 150 180 

Opacity: Average not 

less than (percent) ........ 90 91 92 94 94 

No individual specimen shall 

average less than (percent) 88 89 90 92 92 

Gloss (75o

) of the coated side: Average each side 

 not less than (percent) ........................ ....... 50 

Smoothness of coated side: Average not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ............................... 110 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

 

89 
JCP L80 Cast Coated Cover March 1, 2011 

Cover Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For highest quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, folders, tent cards, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line screen and solids. 

Stock: Free from ground or unbleached woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

 8pt 10pt 12pt 15pt 24pt

Caliper: A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed for 

the 8-point paper; +0.0008 inch for the 10-, 12- and 15-

point; and +0.0010 inch for the 24-point. 

Bursting strength: 

Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ..................... 40 50 60 70 100 

Tearing strength: 

Average each direction 

not less than (grams) ..... 75 100 120 150 180 

Gloss (20o

) of coated side: Average coated side 

 not less than (percent) ........................ ....... 25 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed — 

(Sheffield units, coated side) ............................ 25 

(Sheffield units, uncoated side) ......................... 120 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Average not less than 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be uniformly 

applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, stippled, or ribbed in 

appearance; and shall not exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

 

90 
JCP N10 No. 2 Kraft March 1, 2011 

Kraft Paper FSC 8135 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of top covers for tablets, separators, wrapping for packages, etc. Printed matter may include

text and line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% unbleached sulphate pulp. 

Note: Not less than 5% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 5 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 

inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ................. 40 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ....... 28 34 38 42 47 

Tearing strength: 

Average each direction not 

less than (grams)............

 

70 

 

90 110 130 150 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

91 
 
JCP O-10 Gummed, Conventional Adhesive March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For printing on the ungummed side of the sheet in the production of labels, etc., requiring adhesion to glass, paper, wood and 

similar surfaces except silicon–treated glass. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches (ungummed), 

500 sheets (pounds) ............... 16 18 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Adhesive quality: The adhesive shall be light in color and 

have a distinct (visual) color difference from the ungummed 

side. Gum shall not be obnoxious to taste or smell and be 

non-toxic. When properly moistened, the gummed paper 

shall adhere immediately and firmly to paper, cardboard, 

wood, and glass, except silicone-treated glass. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order shall be uniform and the 

color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

__________ 

1 This is a specialty grade with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for this grade is not practicable for cost 

and technological reasons. 

93 
JCP O-25 Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Bond March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value average not less than ........... 4.5 

Bond Bond Bond Ledger Ledger

Basis weight: 

17 by 22 

inches, 500 

sheets 

(pounds) ... .. 16 18 20 24 32 

 A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: 

Average each 

direction not 

less than 

(milligrams) .. 

 

30 40 50 100 200 

Tearing 

strength: 

Average each 

direction not 

less than 

(grams)........ 30 35 40 50 60 

Bond Bond Bond Ledger Ledger

Opacity: 

Average not 

less 

than (percent) 78 80 82 85 90 

No individual 

specimen 

shall average 

less than 

(percent) ..... 76 78 80 83 88 

Thickness : Average 

 mils) ......... 3.0 3.3 3.7 4.7 6.1 

A tolerance +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall be 

uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds) .. 15 

Smoothness: Average each side (Sheffield 

units) ............................................... 170 to 100 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

___________ 

1 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for 

this grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

94
JCP O-26 Optical Mark Read (OMR) Bond, White, Violet or Gray March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

 White Violet Gray

Dimensional stability: Shall 

not exceed (percent change) — 

Machine direction ............. 0.10 0.10 0.10 

Cross direction............ ...... 0.25 0.25 0.25 

 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............ 21 21 21 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each 

direction not less than — 

(Gurley milligrams) ........... 100 100 100 

OR

(Taber, units) ................... 1.2 1.2 1.2 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ............ 25 25 25 

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 12-A 

Dennison wax number. 

White Violet Gray

Opacity: Average (percent) .... 

82 to 

85 

91 to 

94 

92 to 

95 

Note: Opacity shall be uniform throughout the form. 

Thickness: Average (mils) .... 4.5 4.5 4.5 

A tolerance +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall be 

uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds) ... 30 

 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ................................... 200 to 100 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. The CIELAB values (Ill D65, 10o

observer) of the color standards are: 

 White Violet Gray

 L* = 94.4 89.8 70.0 

 a* = -0.8 1.0 9.0 

 b* = 3.8 1.0 9.0 

Formation: Shall be extremely uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

___________ 

1 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for 

this grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

95 
JCP O-27 Optical Mark Sense Scanner (OMSS) Bond March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp. 

 No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to the 

pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, due to 

residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, is 

permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, measured 

with and without the ultraviolet component of a light 

source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a C.I.E. 

(International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) filter, 

does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Moisture content: Average (percent)........... 5.5 

A tolerance of +0.3 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Dimensional stability: Shall not exceed (percent change) 

 Machine direction................................... 0.10 

 Cross direction.......................................... 0.25 

 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............................................... 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than — 

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) .......... 200 

(Cross direction, Gurley, milligrams) ............. 100 

 OR

(Machine direction, Taber units) ................... 3.7 

(Cross direction, Taber units) ...................... 1.8 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) .................................................. 19 

Tearing strength: Average each direction not 

less than (grams) ..................................... 65 

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 12-A 

Dennison wax number. 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .... 90 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ..................................... 88 

Thickness: Average (mils)..................... 4.4 

A tolerance +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall be 

uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds).... 15 to 45 

 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) .................................. 200 to 100 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified. The 

reflectance in the 700 to 1,000 nanometer region shall 

average not less than 70% when measured with a print 

contrast meter. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

 

___________ 

1 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities with low Government usage. A postconsumer fiber content for 

this grade is not practicable for cost and technological reasons. 

96 
JCP O-60 Plain Copier, Xerographic, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Archival Quality and Qualified Product 1

) FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For use in specified laser printers, high speed, plain paper copiers, xerographic equipment and products requiring archival 

quality.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent over 

30 percentage points, is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less than 7.5. 

The paper shall contain not less than 2% calcium carbonate. 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) .................... 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.5 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) ... 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than —

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) .................. 135 

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) ..................... 60 

 OR

(Machine direction, Taber units) ........................... 1.9 

(Cross direction, Taber units) .............................. 0.9 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each direction not 

less than (grams) ............................................. 40 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) .... ........... 86 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) ................................................. 84 

 

Smoothness: Average each side (Sheffield units).... 190 to 130 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters written 

with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing through a 

high speed copier or laser printer with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome under reasonable 

working conditions. 

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, waviness, folds, 

holes, tears and other detrimental defects. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the size(s) 

ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four sides with clean 

smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A tolerance of +1/16 inch 

shall be allowed except for sheets 8-1/2 by 14 inches or less, then 

a tolerance of +1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 1/32 inch. 

Paper shall be considered squared if the variation does not exceed 

1/32 inch. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 82% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be uniform 

and the color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, the commercial color for the specified shade 

shall apply except when an exact match to one of the established 

color standards in Part 3 is required or to match a color sample 

supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not fade or transfer 

(rub off) and shall appear even and uniform on the surface of the 

sheet. The sheet shall not be 2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall not 

exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet (600 to 

650 cm2 in size) shall contain more than one defect with 

equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product shall perform 

satisfactorily on laser printer and high speed xerographic 

equipment. There shall not be more than one paper caused jam 

or one document with unacceptable image quality due to the 

paper per 5,000 continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions of 

21 +5.5 o

C and 50 +20% relative humidity. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance criteria Part 

4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has been tested and meets the 

requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often change their product offerings. 

ANSI/NISO: Conformance to the standard Z39.48—1992 (www.niso.org) permits the printing of the infinity symbol ( in the document 

or publication. Prior-to-production testing of the paper is recommended before inclusion as a Qualified Product. 

 __________ 

1 This grade is available in limited quantities with low Government usage. See JCP O-65 or O-70 which is the commodity grade for plain 

copier, xerographic paper. 

97 

JCP O-61 High Quality Xerographic Copier, Laser Printer March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For use in producing camera ready copy; suitable for use in specified laser printers and high speed xerographic equipment. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp. 

Note1

: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) ...... 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.3 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ........................... 24 28 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than — 

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams).... 150 200 

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) ....... 75 100 

 OR

(Machine direction, Taber units) ............ 2.4 3.0 

(Cross direction, Taber units) ............... 1.5 2.0 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each direction 

not less than (grams) ......................... 36 40 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) . 88 90 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) .................................. 86 88 

 

Smoothness: Average each side not to 

exceed (Sheffield units) ............................ 100 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, waviness, 

folds, holes, tears and other detrimental defects. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four 

sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 

8-1/2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance of +1/32 shall 

apply. Successive sheets within any package shall not 

differ from each other by more than 1/32 inch. Paper shall 

be considered squared if the variation does not exceed 1/32 

inch. 

 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 25 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product shall 

perform satisfactorily on laser printer and high speed 

xerographic equipment. There shall not be more than one 

paper caused jam or one document with unacceptable 

image quality due to the paper per 5,000 continuous-copy 

run at atmospheric conditions of 21 +5.5 o

C and 50 +20% 

relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

 __________ 

1

 This grade has limited availability with a postconsumer fiber content for the intended use “to create camera ready copy.” For

other applications, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in 

the solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for postconsumer fiber content. 

98 
JCP O-63 Plain Copier, Xerographic Copier, Laser Printer, Colored March 1, 2011

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For use in specified laser printers, high speed, plain paper copiers and xerographic equipment.

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) ............ 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.5 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .................. 20 24 28 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ...... 36 38 42 

 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ............................... 90 91 93 

No individual specimen shall average 

less than (percent) ..................... 88 89 91 

 

Thickness: Average (mils) ......... 3.7 4.1 4.7 

A tolerance of +0.0003 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch from 

edge to edge. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, waviness, 

folds, holes, tears and other detrimental defects. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four 

sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 

8-1/2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance of +1/32 shall 

apply. Successive sheets within any package shall not 

differ from each other by more than 1/32 inch. Paper shall 

be considered squared if the variation does not exceed 1/32 

inch. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. The commercial color for the 

specified shade shall apply except when an exact match to 

one of the established color standards in Part 3 is required 

or to match a color sample supplied by the ordering agency. 

Colors shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet 

shall not be 2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 100 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product shall 

perform satisfactorily on laser printer and high speed 

xerographic equipment. There shall not be more than one 

paper caused jam or one document with unacceptable 

image quality due to the paper per 5,000 continuous-copy 

run at atmospheric conditions of 21 +5.5 o

C and 50 +20% 

relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

 

 

99 
JCP O-65 Plain Copier, Xerographic, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For use in specified laser printers, high speed, plain paper copiers and xerographic equipment.

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note1

: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 30 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) ...... 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.5 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ............................ 20 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than — 

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) ...... 135 

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) ......... 60 

 OR

(Machine direction, Taber units) .............. 1.9 

(Cross direction, Taber units) .................. 0.9 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Tearing strength: Average each direction not 

less than (grams) ................................ 36 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ... 86 

No individual specimen shall average less 

than (percent) .................................... 84 

 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ................................. 190 to 130 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, waviness, 

folds, holes, tears, and other detrimental defects. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four 

sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 

8-1/2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance of +1/32 shall 

apply. Successive sheets within any package shall not 

differ from each other by more than 1/32 inch. Paper shall 

be considered squared if the variation does not exceed 1/32 

inch. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 82% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, the commercial color for the shade 

shall apply except when specified that an exact match to 

one of the established color standards in Part 3 is required 

or to match a color sample supplied by the ordering agency. 

Colors shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet 

shall not be 2-sided. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 250 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product shall 

perform satisfactorily on laser printer and high speed 

xerographic equipment. There shall not be more than one 

paper caused jam or one document with unacceptable 

image quality due to the paper per 5,000 continuous-copy 

run at atmospheric conditions of 21 +5.5 o

C and 50 +20% 

relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

_________ 

1

Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in the 

solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for higher postconsumer fiber content 

100 
JCP O-70 100% Recycled Plain Copier, Xerographic March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 7530 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For use in specified laser printers, high speed, plain paper copiers and xerographic; for products of a non-permanent nature. 

May contain foreign or “dirt” particles embedded in the surface of the paper. 

Stock1

: Not less than 100% total recovered fiber of 

which at least 50% shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber in any percent over 50 percentage 

points are encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) ............. 4.5 

A tolerance of +0.5 percentage point shall be allowed. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) ............................................ 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than — 

Machine direction (Gurley milligrams) ........ 

Cross direction (Gurley milligrams) ............ 

130 

 65 

150 

 75 

 OR 

Machine direction (Taber units) ................. 

Cross direction (Taber units) .................... 

 1.9 

 0.9 

 2.2 

 1.1 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper.

Tearing strength: Average each 

direction not less than (grams) ...................... 

 

30 

 

 50 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ............................................

 No individual specimen shall average less 

86 90 

than (percent) ......................................

 

 84 88 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) ............................... 190 to 130 

 Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear cut 

and free from excessive feathering. 

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with either no 

tendency to curl or with a curl, which can be overcome 

under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, waviness, 

folds, holes, tears and other detrimental defects. 

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four 

sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A 

tolerance of +1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 

8-1/2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance of +1/32 shall 

apply. Successive sheets within any package shall not 

differ from each other by more than 1/32 inch. Paper shall 

be considered squared if the variation does not exceed 1/32 

inch. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target 82% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard. 

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product shall 

perform satisfactorily on laser printer and high speed 

xerographic equipment. There shall not be more than one 

paper caused jam or one document with unacceptable 

image quality due to the paper per 5,000 continuous-copy 

run at atmospheric conditions of 21 +5.5 o

C and 50 +20% 

relative humidity. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

_________ 

1

Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in the 

solicitation and/or adjusting the Stock requirement for higher postconsumer fiber content. 

101 
JCP O-80 Carbonless Bond March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For offset printing. Generally for use on multiple copies of forms, etc., eliminating the need for carbon paper. Printed matter 

may include text, lines and rules. 

Stock: Free from ground woodpulp and any polychlorinated biphenyls. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

 CB CFB CF 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, as specified in 

500 sheets (pounds) ............ Solicitation

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ............ 81 

 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens on the face of the 

CB part shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

Performance (reproducibility): Each part in a set shall be 

legible and the characters can be clearly read when written 

on the CB part with pencil, ballpoint pen, or with any 

impact typewriter. The images shall be permanent. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less than 79% 

or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards. Standards are blue, buff, 

green, goldenrod, pink, salmon or yellow. Colors shall 

not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. When a match to a 

specific Government color standard has not been 

designated, the commercial shade or white shall apply. 

Color coordinated for selected standards are included in 

Part 3. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the paper shall 

not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No sample sheet 

(600 to 650 cm2

 in size) shall contain more than one defect 

with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 does NOT apply. 

CB = coated back; CFB = coated face and back; and CF = coated face: Coating contains microscopic capsules of a colorless 

dye. 

 

 

102 
JCP O-90 Printable Plastic Film (Synthetic Paper) March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For multicolor face and back offset printing of manuals, maps, tags, outdoor billboards, etc., requiring a high degree of tear 

resistance including resistance to action of water, mild aqueous solutions, grease, oils, extreme climatic temperatures, frequent 

handling, discoloration and durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen. 

Stock: Shall be a non-cellulose substrate. 

Note: Recovered material in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Caliper: Nominal (mils)......... 4 5.5 7 8.5 

Folding endurance: Average each direction not 

less than (MIT double folds) .............................

 

4,000 

Aged film: Average each direction not less than 

50% of the unaged film or (MIT double folds) ... 4,000 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) ........................... 90 92 94 96 

Surface: The film shall not flake, powder, crack, blister, 

or otherwise deteriorate under print or other handling 

conditions, shall not discolor, become brittle, or be subject 

to attack by mold, mildew, or fungus under normal 

conditions, and shall be uniform, free from mottle, and 

from any particles that will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on use 

under normal conditions.

Aged film: The L* component of the color shall not 

decrease more than 3 percentage points. 

General appearance: Film shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 86% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The film shall be clean. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

Aged film: Age material for 48 hours in an Atlas fadeometer or equivalent with a carbon arc. 

 

PPG TeslinR

 SP (www.teslin.com) 

Arjobex PolyartR

 (www.polyart.com) 

YUPOR

 (www.yupo.com) 

AET SynCartaTM SLC (www.syncarta.com) 

HOP-SYNR

 II DURA-LITE (www.hopindustries.com) 

 

 

103 
JCP O-91 Uncoated (Tear-resistant) Synthetic Paper March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Paper (Qualified Product) FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use.

For multicolor face and back offset printing of manuals, maps, tags, outdoor billboards, etc., requiring a high degree of tear 

resistance and durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen. 

Stock: Shall be a cellulose – based substrate. 

Note: Recovered material in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Caliper: Nominal (mils)......... 4 5 6 8 

Tearing strength: Average 

machine direction not less than 

(grams) ........................... 60 80 100 140 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) .......................... 90 91 92 94 

Surface: The paper shall not deteriorate under print or 

other normal handling conditions; shall be uniform, free 

from mottle, and from any particles that will pick, lift, fluff 

or pile on use under normal conditions.

Aged paper: The L* component of the color shall not 

decrease more than 3 percentage points. 

General appearance: Paper (film) shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: Shall not less than target 85% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The paper (film) shall be clean. 

 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The 

acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. A Qualified Product indicates a brand name (or product name) has

been tested and meets the requirements of the standard. Products should be retested periodically since manufacturers often 

change their product offerings. 

Aged paper: Age material for 48 hours in an Atlas fadeometer or equivalent with a carbon arc. 

 

Tru-TechTM (www.tru-techfinepapers.com) 

Arlon Duralon TM (www.arlon.com/ecp/duralon.asp) 

 

 

 

104 
JCP P10 High-finish Manila Tag March 1, 2011 

Tag Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of file folders, tickets, tags, cards, notices, signs, covers, for books and pads, etc., requiring 

strength and durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from ground woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .......................................... 150 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) ...................................... 100 

 

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. Paper shall be manila or match the 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. The 

commercial color standard is applicable, unless specified 

that the color shall conform to the Government standard. 

Colors shall not fade and shall appear even and uniform on 

the surface of the sheet. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

105 
JCP P20 High-finish Folder Stock, Natural and Colored March 1, 2011 

Tag Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back offset printing of file folders, etc., requiring strength and durability. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: 100% sulphate pulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .... .. 105 150 165 250 

A tolerance of +10% shall be allowed. 

Stiffness: Gurley average not less than (milligram) — 

Machine direction ....... 2000 5000 6000 14000 

Cross direction ........... 800 1500 2000 7500 

Thickness: Average (mils) .. 8 11 14 18 

A tolerance of +0.001 inch shall be allowed. 

Tearing strength: Average not less than (grams) — 

Machine direction ....... 150 250 350 400 

Cross direction ........... 200 300 400 500 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with pen and ink shall be clear cut and free from 

excessive feathering. 

General appearance: The color, finish and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform and 

the color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 

 For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards or match the color sample 

supplied by the ordering agency. The commercial color 

standard is applicable, unless specified that the color shall 

conform to the Government standard. Colors shall not 

fade and shall appear even and uniform on the surface of 

the sheet. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

106 
JCP Q20 Railroad Board, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Cardboard FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For offset printing of signs, display cards, cloth or paper-stripped covers or two-piece covers for use with bindings such as 

plastic combs, wire-o and spiral. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: Facing sheets shall be uncoated and shall not 

exceed 25% ground woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 80% total recovered fiber of which 15 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber in any percent over 15 percentage 

points are encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Thickness: Average (mils) ...... 18.0 30.0 48.0 

 Tolerance (+ inch) ............... 0.001 0.002 0.0025 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: The color and cleanliness shall 

conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Brightness: Shall target not less than 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform. The color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 For colored stock, board shall be ash gray, blue, buff, 

green, orange, red or match the color sample supplied by 

the ordering agency. The commercial color standard is 

applicable unless specified that the color shall conform to 

the Government standard. Color shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

107 
JCP Q50 Chemical Wood Board, Colored March 1, 2011 

Cardboard FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back printing of file folders, cards, open forms and covers for books and manuals requiring strength and durability. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: 100% chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 50% recovered fiber. Postconsumer 

fiber in any percentage is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 22-1/2 by 28-1/2 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) .... ................................. 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

).. 80 

Tearing strength: Average total both direction 

not less than (grams) .................................... 520 

Thickness: Average (mils) ............................ 9.8 

A tolerance of +0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paperboard 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch 

from edge to edge. 

Water resistance: Average not less than (minutes) ... 5 

 

Abrasion: The abrasion loss shall be no greater than the 

standard sample when tested dry. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

 

General appearance: The color, finish and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. The 

color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

 

 Board shall match the blue or tan standard or match the 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. The 

commercial color standard is applicable unless specified 

that the color shall conform to the Government standard. 

Colors shall not fade and shall appear even and uniform on 

the surface of the board. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

108 
JCP Q80 High-finish Red Wallet Board March 1, 2011 

Cardboard FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back printing of file folders, expansion wallets, loose leaf or cloth-stripped covers for composition books. Printed 

matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Principally chemical pulp; the remainder free from 

ground woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 20% percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ................................ 160 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

)..................................... 115 

Writing quality: Characters written with ballpoint and 

felt tip pens shall be clear-cut. 

 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: The color, finish and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the commercial standard for red or as 

specified. Colors shall not fade. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

109 
 
JCP R10 Pressboard, Colored (Type III) March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back printing of filing guides, cloth or paper-stripped covers, and two-piece covers for use with bindings such as

combs, wire-o and spiral. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses. 

Stock: Not less than 50% recovered fiber of which 20 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber in any percentage over 20 percentage 

points are encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ...... ........ 170 190 210 

Thickness: Average (mils) ...... 15 20 25 

A tolerance of +0.001 inch shall be allowed for the 15- and 

20-mil pressboard. For the 25-mil board, a tolerance of 

-0.001 inch and +0.0015 inch shall be allowed. 

Density: Average (g/cm3

) ........................ 0.8 to 1.0 

Surface: Shall be close in texture, hard, smooth and free 

from irregularities and blisters. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: The color and cleanliness shall 

conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the established Government standard for 

blue, light green, red, or match the color sample supplied 

by the ordering agency. The commercial color standard is 

applicable, unless specified that the color shall conform to 

the Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision 

requirements” of the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

111 
JCP R11 Pressboard, Colored (Type I) March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For face and back printing of filing guides, cloth or paper-stripped covers and two-piece covers requiring additional strength 

and stiffness for use with bindings such as combs, wire-o and spiral. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

solid reverses. 

Stock: Not less than 50% recovered fiber of which 20 

percentage points shall be postconsumer fiber. 

Postconsumer fiber in any percentage over 20 percentage 

points are encouraged, provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met. 

Bursting strength: Average 

not less than (lb/in2

) ............... 180 200 220 

Thickness: Average (mils) .... .. 15 20 25 

A tolerance of +0.001 inch shall be allowed for the 15- and 

20-mil pressboard. For the 25-mil board, a tolerance of 

-0.001 inch and +0.0015 inch shall be allowed. 

Density: Average (g/cm3

) ....................... 1.4 to 1.6 

Surface: Shall be close in texture, hard, smooth, and free 

from irregularities and blisters. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: The color and cleanliness shall 

conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government. 

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the established Government standard for 

blue, light green, red, or match the color sample supplied 

by the ordering agency. The commercial color standard is 

applicable, unless specified that the color shall conform to 

the Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The “precision 

requirements” of the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

112 
JCP R20 Newsboard March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For backing of pads and tablets and top and bottom protection in packaging. 

Stock: Not less than 80% postconsumer fiber. Any 

percent over 80 percentage points are encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 26 by 38 inches, 50 pounds 

(number) sheets .... ............. ......................... 100 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2

) ... 50 

Thickness: Average (mils) .............................. 20 

A tolerance of -0.001 inch and +0.002 inch shall be 

allowed. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to 

curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions. 

General appearance: The surface and cleanliness shall 

conform to the standard sample(s) established by the 

Government.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

113 
JCP R30 Book Cover Board March 1, 2011 

Miscellaneous Board FSC 9310 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For production of rigid bindings of ledger and text books when covered with materials such as buckram, fabrikoid, drilling, 

book cloth, etc. 

Stock: Not less than 80% postconsumer fiber. Any percent over 80 percentage points, is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25-1/4 by 30-1/4 inches, 

50 pounds (number) sheets .... ................... 9 12 17 19 21 25 31 41 

A tolerance of +6% shall be allowed. 

Bursting strength: Average not less 

than (lb/in2

) .......................................... 800 600 450 425 385 315 255 210 

Thickness: Average (inch) ....................... 0.22 0.17 0.12 0.11 0.098 0.08 0.065 0.049 

A tolerance of + 0.003 inch shall be allowed; except for No. 9 and 12 board, then a tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. On 

boards with the shorter dimension over 32 inches, an additional 50% of the above thickness tolerance shall be allowed 

Density: Average (g/cm3

) ................ ............................................................................... 0.8 to 1.0 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under reasonable working 

conditions. 

Size and trim: Sufficient trim of not less than 0.5 inch shall be allowed on both dimensions of the sheet. Board shall be 

trimmed square on all four sides with smooth edges. 

General appearance: The surface shall be free from surface lumps, clip indentations, and mechanical imperfections, and be 

reasonably smooth and flat. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. The acceptance 

criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

 

114 
General Requirements for Envelopes 1 March 1, 2011 

 

 

Writing quality: Characters written with pen and ink 

shall be clear cut and free from excessive feathering. 

Flap adhesive: The remoistenable adhesive on the 

sealing flaps of the envelopes shall have a minimum 

thickness of 0.0006 inch uniformly applied. The flap shall 

not stick to the body of the envelope, but shall be capable 

of being quickly and securely sealed using 5 pounds of 

pressure after moistening. When opened not less than 15 

seconds or more than 20 seconds, after sealing, the flap 

shall pull fibers from the body of the envelope over the 

entire adhesive area. 

 The adhesive shall be able to resist the heat and pressure 

of common office laser printers, so the flap adhesive does 

not become soft and tacky causing the flap to stick to the 

body of the envelope. 

Size: The size of the envelope shall be as specified. A 

tolerance of minus 0 inch and +1/8 inch. 

General appearance: Envelopes shall conform to the 

standard samples(s) adopted by the Government. 

Color: Envelopes shall be a uniform shade throughout the 

order. 

Cleanliness: No envelop (up to 300 cm2

 in size) shall 

contain more than two obvious and objectionable foreign 

particles with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2

 or greater on 

the face of the envelope. The number of particles 

permitted is proportionately higher for larger envelope 

sizes. 

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of these envelopes will 

be used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained at 24o

C 

+2o

C and 45% +8% relative humidity or offices with 

atmospheric conditions of 21 +5.5o

C and 50% +5% 

relative humidity. 

 

__________ 

1 The above requirements are an integral part of each envelope standard (the V-series.) 

115
 
JCP V10 Light-brown (Kraft Shade) Envelope March 1, 2011 

Envelope 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For the insertion of correspondences, pamphlets, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and offset 

printing, processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations.

Stock: 100% sulphate pulp. 

Note: Not less than 20% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 

500 sheets (pounds) ................. 24 28 32 40 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not 

less than (lb/in2

) ..................... 38 44 50 60 

 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Color: Shall be light-brown kraft shade. 

Finish: Envelopes shall have a smooth-finish. 

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable foreign 

particles on the surface that would detract from its 

usability. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. Additionally, 

see page 115. The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

117 
JCP V20 Writing Envelope, White and Colored March 1, 2011 

Envelope 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For the insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and offset printing, 

processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations.

Stock: Ground woodpulp not to exceed 1%; the remainder 

bleached chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than30% postconsumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points are encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .............................................. 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ................................................. 20 24 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 86 87 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) .............................................. 84 85 

 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The white envelopes shall have a brightness of 

not less than 82%. 

Colored envelopes: The commercial shade for the color 

specified shall applied except when an exact match to one 

of the established “business” color standards in Part 3 is 

required or to match a color sample supplied by the 

ordering agency. 

Finish: Envelopes shall have a wove-finish. 

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable foreign 

particles on the surface that would detract from its 

usability. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. Additionally, 

see page 115. The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

118 
JCP V40 25% Bond Envelope March 1, 2011 

Envelope 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For the insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or in automated equipment, to match office stationery. Suitable for 

letterpress and offset printing, processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include 

text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. Ground 

woodpulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Postconsumer fiber in any percentage point is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .............................................. 20 24 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ................................................. 20 24 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ....... 85 86 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) .............................................. 83 84 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The envelopes shall have a brightness of not 

less than 82%. 

Finish: Envelopes have a light cockle finish. 

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable foreign 

particles on the surface that would detract from its 

usability.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. Additionally, 

see page 115. The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

119 
JCP V90 TYVEKTM-finish Envelope March 1, 2011 

Envelope 

 

Use Information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For the insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or in automated equipment, to match office stationery. Suitable for 

letterpress and offset printing, processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include 

text and line illustrations. 

Stock: White spunbonded polyethylene with the 

characteristics of DuPont’s product No. 1073. 

Note: Not less than 25% postconsumer material. Any 

percent over 25 percentage points, is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) .............................................. 18 

A tolerance of +5% shall be allowed. 

 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2

) ................................................. 140 

 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) ....... 87 

Thickness of single layer of polyethylene: 

Average (mils) .......................................

 

7.0 

A tolerance of +0.001 inch shall allowed. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the standard 

sample(s) established by the Government. 

Brightness: The envelopes shall have a brightness of not 

less than 81%. 

Finish: Similar to the commercial TYVEKTM product. 

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable foreign 

particles on the surface that would detract from its 

usability.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Part 2, Government Paper Specification Standards. Additionally, 

see page 115. The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

 

120 
Part 2. 

TESTING STANDARDS 

AND 

DEFINITION OF TERMS 

 
 
TESTING STANDARDS AND DEFINITION OF TERMS 

General Information: The methods given in this Part of the 

Standards are required to be used in measuring the characteristics 

of papers that are specified in Part 1, Specifications. Alphanumeric citations of methods refer to the methods of the Technical 

Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), unless 

otherwise indicated. Testing laboratories are advised to provide 

themselves with current editions of all methods. Methods of 

TAPPI can be obtained from TAPPI, www.tappi.org. Methods of 

the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) can be 

obtained from www.astm.org. Sources of other methods are given 

in the text. 

 Paper suppliers are required to make such tests as may be 

necessary, to ensure the delivery of finished paper fully complies 

with the applicable specifications and standard samples. When 

requested by the procuring office, copies of the records developed 

by the paper supplier in making such test shall be furnished. All 

paper, including paper in the manufacturing process, is subject to 

inspection as authorized by the contracting office. 

Abrasion: Use method T—476. 

Absolute moisture: Use method T—412. 

Acidity (pH): (a) For uncoated papers, unless otherwise stated use 

method T—435. To make the test, weigh a specimen of 1.8 grams 

and add 125 ml of distilled water. (b) For coated papers, use T—

435, except to prepare the test specimen: use a razor blade and 

scrape the coating from an area from 5 paper specimens until a 

sample weight 0.12 gram is accumulated. Place the sample in a 

clean beaker, add 50 ml of distilled water, let the coating sit and 

soak for one hour before taking the pH. (c) For a “cold 

extraction,” use method T—509. 

Alkaline paper: Paper which has a pH value greater than 7; stock 

made by an alkaline manufacturing process. Paper longevity is 

enhanced. 

ANSI: American National Standards Institute or www.ansi.org. 

Basis weight: Use method T—410. 

BCTMP: Bleached “chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp (CTMP)”. It 

is pulp that has been bleached to a higher brightness, usually 

greater than 80%. CTMP is a pulp produced by a less vigorous 

chemical process (lower temperature, shorter time, less extreme 

pH) and much of the lignin-component of the wood has not been 

removed. 

Bleached: Process in which papermaking fibers are chemically 

treated to whiten, purify and stabilize the fiber. 

Blocking: Use method D—918 of ASTM with the following 

modification. Take rectangular specimens 4-1/2 by 6 cm. Use a 

top plate and weight such that the total mass is equivalent to 70 

g/cm2

 on the specimens for uncoated paper and 9 g/cm2 for coated 

paper. Prepare the specimens by soaking them in water at 

 

25 +5 o

C temperature for 15 minutes. Ensure the water has free 

access to both sides of the each specimen. Remove the specimens 

from the water; shake each specimen gently to remove the excess 

water from the surface. Restack the specimens and allow the 

assembly to dry at 25 +5 oC. 

Brightness: Use method T—452. 

Bursting strength: (a) For papers with bursting strengths less than 

200 lbs/in2

, use method T—403; greater than 200 lb/in2, use method 

T—807. (b) For the wet burst test, heat the cut specimens in an 

oven 105 o

C for 15 minutes. Immediately soak the specimens in 

water at 23 +2 o

C temperature for 60 minutes and blot in accordance 

with method T—456. Test specimen per T—403 or T—807, as 

appropriate. 

Calcium carbonate: See filler. 

Chemical pulp: Wood chips treated with chemicals to remove 

impurities such as lignin, resins, gums, etc. to be use for 

papermaking. There are two basic types: sulfite and sulfate (kraft) 

and variations of these. See stock. 

Chlorine-free: A term used to describe a bleaching process. Two 

types are associated with a chlorine-free paper: “elemental chlorinefree (ECF)” or “totally chlorine-free (TCF).” An ECF paper is made 

from pulp bleach with chlorine dioxide, but not elemental chlorine; 

whereas, TCF paper is made from pulp bleached without using 

chlorine or chlorine compounds (and this includes the recycled fiber 

component of the paper.) 

Cleanliness: See dirt, speck. 

Color by visual comparison: Use method T—515. Visual color 

assessments are made in a light booth with light sources having color 

temperature of 5000 and 7500 degrees Kelvin. Overall matches are 

described as “fair plus or good (or 0 demerits),” fair (or 4 demerits),” 

“fair minus or marginal (or 12 demerits),” and “unacceptable (or 36 

demerits.)” 

Color by spectral reflectance: Use T—524 and equations for 

CIELAB. 

Color deviation and variation: Calculate using the CIELAB 

equations described in TAPPI TIS 0804-04. Measurements are 

made under the following conditions: Ill D65, 10o

 observer with 

specular component included. 

Conditioning for testing: Use method T—402. The atmosphere in 

the immediate vicinity of the testing apparatus shall be controlled to 

the required conditions during the test. 

Cotton fiber paper: Paper containing at least 25% or more fibers 

derived from lint cotton, cotton linters, cotton or linen cloth cuttings. 

123
These papers fall in the broad category of paper containing 

“recovered material.” 

Dealing with outlying test determinations: Use method T—

1205. 

Defects in paper by visual examination: Insofar as practicable, 

defects in paper which are determined by visual examination shall 

be classified and defined in accordance with the Dictionary of 

Paper published by TAPPI. 

Density: Measure the thickness of the specimen in centimeters in 

per method T—411. Measure the weight of the specimen in grams 

per square centimeter per method T—410. Divide the weight by 

the thickness and report the density in “g/cm3

.” 

Dirt: Use method T—437. 

ECF: See chlorine-free. 

Equilibrium relative humidity: Use method T—502. 

Erasing quality: The term “erasing quality” shall be construed to 

mean the retention of good writing quality and appearance of 

surface after complete erasure of inked lines using a “hard” eraser 

such as Eberhard FaberR Union 110, Faber Castell Eraser StickR

7099B, Weldon Roberts No. 38 or equivalent. Additionally, for 

map paper, the texture shall permit redrawing of sharp lines in ink 

after burnishing. 

Filler: The percent calcium carbonate in the filler shall be 

determined as follows using method T—553. 

Fluorescence: See optical brightener. 

Folding endurance: Use method T—511. 

Formaldehyde: Use method 111, “Tentative Method of Analysis 

for Formaldehyde Content of the Atmosphere (Colorimetric 

Method)” (43502-01-69T), by the Intersociety Committee, 

Methods of Air Sampling and Analysis, American Public Health 

Association, pp 194-198 or www.apha.org. 

Gloss: Use method T—480 for 75o

 and T—653 for 20o. 

Grain: See machine direction. 

Ground woodpulp: Paper making fiber produced by mechanical 

means. This fiber is not the same as bleached chemi-thermomechanical pulps (BCTMP) which is a semi-chemical pulp. See 

stock. 

Light transmission: Use method E—308 of ASTM. 

Lignin: There percent lignin in paper shall be determined 

spectrophotometrically as follows: 

(1) Remove the calcium carbonate filler from a 5 by 5 

centimeter paper sample by soaking it in hot (99 o

C) 0.1 N 

HCl until effervescence is complete. 

(2) Rinse the paper sample with distilled water. 

(3) Place the sample in an 85 o

C oven (for a few minutes) to 

dry it. 

(4) Trim the paper to fit the sample hold of the 

spectrophotometer. 

(5) Clamp the paper sample which has been moistened with a 

drop of tetrachloroethylene between the potassium 

bromide widows. 

(6) Obtain an infrared (IR) spectrum by averaging 50 scans 

with a Fourier transform IR spectrometer. 

(7) IR spectra data must be expressed in “absorbance” rather 

than “transmittance.” The background spectrum (air 

blank) should be no more than two hours old. 

(8) Calculate lignin using the following equation: 

Percent lignin (of fibrous material) 

= (L/C + 0.033) X 132.45 

Where 

L= the integrated area bounded by the IR absorption band and 

baseline from 1540 cm-1 to 1490 cm-1 

C= the integrated area bounded by the IR absorption band and 

base line from 3000 cm-1 to 2800 cm-1 

Machine direction: Use method T—409. 

NISO: National Information Standards Organization or 

www.niso.org. 

Oil holdout (of coating): Use method T—462, except the end point 

shall be evaluated at 200 seconds. When viewing from the underside 

of the paper in the mirror of the apparatus, record the time it takes 

for the oil to penetrate the coating or at 200 seconds, “did the oil 

penetrate the coating of the paper?” Report either the number of 

seconds it took the oil to penetrate the coating or report as 200+ if 

there is not penetration at 200 seconds. Note, the endpoint for this 

test is not the same as the endpoint for oil penetration described in 

the method. 

Oil penetration: Use method T—462. 

Opacity: Use method T—425. 

Optical brightener: Use method T—452, appendix C. 

Permanent paper: (a) A stock that can resist chemical and physical 

changes over an extended time period (e.g. several hundreds of 

years.) This paper is acid-free, has a high initial strength and retains 

its strength over time. (b) Pub. L. 101-423, Joint Resolution to 

Establish a National Policy on Permanent Paper was passed October 

1990, and states “It is the policy of the United States that Federal 

124 
records, books, and publication of enduring value be produced on 

acid-free permanent papers.” 

Pick resistance: Use method T—459. 

PMU (Phosphor meter unit): Critical property in substrates used 

to the mail stream. Specialized equipment furnish by the U.S. 

Postal Service to monitor the property. 

Porosity: Use method T—460. 

Postconsumer fiber: Fiber derived from material that has passed 

through the end user or consumer. 

Recovered material: See definitions in Solid Waste Disposal Act 

(Pub. L. 89-272) Sec. 6002, (h) Definitions. 

RCRA: Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (Pub. L. 94-

580); the beginning of establishing environmentally preferable 

standards for printing papers. 

“Recycled” content paper: This term is not specifically defined 

in any statute but has come to mean paper containing any of the 

following recovered material categories: pre- and post-consumer 

fiber, pre- and post- manufacturing or industrial fiber, cotton or 

linen fiber, etc. 

Reflectance (brightness) drop: Measure brightness at a specific 

spot using method T—452. Expose the spot with a water-cooled 

xenon-arc lamp, continuous lamp fading apparatus for 48 standard 

fading hours per method 16E of the American Association of 

Textile Chemists and Colorist (www.aatcc.org). Recondition the 

sheet in the standard atmosphere and re-measure the brightness of 

the spot. The reflectance drop is the difference between the before 

and after exposure to the xenon-arc lamp. 

Rosin: Use method T—408. 

Sampling: Sampling shall be conducted in accordance with 

method T—400. Agencies shall specify detailed plans and criteria 

for acceptance or rejection, tailored to specific end product, grades, 

end uses or other particular situation. Agencies may also specify 

detailed plans for visual examination of lots of paper for properties 

not included in this section. These documents shall be made 

available to the contractors and manufacturers. 

Speck: A unit of dirt; any foreign matter 0.02 mm2

 or larger 

embedded in the sheet and visible when the sheet is examined in a 

well lit room at a distance of 12 to 18 inches with the sheet resting 

at a 45o

 angle from the normal. Note, it is not necessary to lift or 

rotate the sheet to see the speck. See dirt. 

Stiffness: For the Gurley test, use method T—543 and specimen 

size that is 64 mm long by 51 mm wide. For the Taber test, use 

method T—489. 

Solid Waste Disposal Act: Amended RCRA establishing the 

definitions and categories of recovered material including 

postconsumer material 

Stock (fiber analysis): Use method T—401. Standards with the 

following requirements: (a) Free from ground and unbleached 

woodpulp, or (b) 100% bleached chemical woodpulp, or (c) 

Remainder bleached chemical pulp – should be interpreted to mean 

the paper is free from lignin. 

TCF: See chlorine-free. 

Tearing strength (resistance): Use method T—414. 

Tensile strength: Use method T—494. For wet tensile strength, 

heat the specimens at 105 o

C for 15 minutes, then use method 

T—456.

Thickness: Use method T—411. 

Unbleached: Paper or pulp not treated with bleaching agents. 

Vegetable-fiber paper: Paper which contains a significant amount 

of “renewable” plant fibers, not wood or cotton fibers. 

Watermark: A translucent design in the paper. It is pressed into 

the paper by a raised pattern using a dandy roll during the paper 

manufacturing process. 

Water resistance: Use T—433 or T—441, as appropriate for the 

stock.

Writing quality: (a) When “pen and ink” is specified, the degree of 

feathering is determined by writing on the specimen using a 1% ink 

solution of either C.I. Acid Red 1 (C.I. 18050) or C.I. Acid Green 3 

(C.I. 42085) using an extra fine pen nib such as Estabrook Falcon 

#048, Hunt #107, Hunt #512 or equivalent. (b) If “ball point and felt 

tip pens” are specified, test the surface for writing quality with any 

three commercially available brand name pens. 

125 
 
Part 3. 

STANDARD SAMPLES 

AND 

DRAWINGS 

 
 
 SAMPLES AND COLOR INFORMATION 

Physical Samples. 

The Government standard samples referenced in this publication 

may be obtained by contacting GPO’s customer service office. For 

vendors and for prospective bidders, contact the Contracting 

Officer. Standard samples serve as the Government’s referee or 

physical samples for the different grades of paper specified in this 

publication but specifically provide a visual for properties such as 

finish and formation that are not quantified nor very easily 

described using metrics. 

Samples of paper most commonly used in printing projects are 

available in a separate Paper Samples Book. This collection of 

samples shows a number of paper grades with different finishes 

and texture, weights and thickness, as well as the selection of 

Government established colors. These samples are used to assist 

with the design of a print project. 

Specifying papers that meet these specification standards will 

ensure that the print project consist of papers that are the best 

value. 

 

Color / Brightness. 

Many specification standards offer flexibility in the selection of the 

color or brightness. To specify a unique color, there are a couple 

of ways to do this: (1) attach a color swatch to the requisition or 

(2) state the desired color by “product name and color name or 

EQUAL.” (Note: Product names and color should be verified 

periodically since paper companies frequently discontinue colors.) 

When a specific color or brightness is not stated as a requirement, 

the color / brightness defaults to the requirements in the standard. 

Each standard ensures maximum competition for the paper grade. 

There are a number of Government established colors with specific 

color coordinates as demonstrated on the right. Six of the 

established colors are common for the business paper grades: 

writing, manifold, bond, ledger, index and xerographic paper. (See 

Table 1.) Generally, these paper grades, unless purchased in a mill 

run quantity, are supplied as a commercial color match to the 

established standard of blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. 

Commercial color matches are not exact matches to the 

Government color but often suitable for the intended use. 

The vellum-finish cover grade has an extensive set of established 

colors. A “good” color match to the Table 2 color standards is 

generally available through purchasing a mill run quantity which 

can be as small as 5,000 pounds up to 20,000 pounds depending on 

the color and manufacturer. GPO central office carries inventories 

of these colors. 

A series of white and cream white color standards have also been 

established and inventoried for in-plant printing. (See Table 3.) 

Color matches are measured instrumentally as well as assessed 

visually for their acceptability. If a tight color match is critical, 

specify a “precision” acceptance criteria requirement. 

Table 1: Business paper color

 Blue Pink

 L* = 81.5 L* = 71.8 

 a* = -10.4 a* = 35.5 

 b* = -5.0 b* = 2.1 

 Buff Salmon 

 L* = 88.5 L* = 79.7 

 a* = -2.11 a* = 1.3 

 b* = -25.7 b* = 27.7 

 Green Yellow 

 L* = 78.6 L* = 91.6 

 a* = -16.2 a* = -7.7 

 b* = 5.4 b* = 40.6 

Table 2: Vellum-finish cover color

 Brown Saddle tan

 L* = 56.8 L* = 46.1 

 a* = -10.4 a* = 7.3 

 b* = -5.0 b* = 18.9 

 Canary yellow Sand gray 

 L* = 88.5 L* = 70.4 

 a* = 14.0 a* = 2.8 

 b* = 30.3 b* = 16.6 

 Dutch blue Sun orange 

 L* = 56.1 L* = 67.8 

 a* = -3.6 a* = 39.5 

 b* = 16.3 b* = 49.4 

 Killarney green Venice blue 

 L* = 61.4 L* = 77.4 

 a* = -18.2 a* = -17.0 

 b* = 17.8 b* = -12.9 

 Light gray Vermillion 

 L* = 68.8 L* = 43.2 

 a* = 0.5 a* = 46.5 

 b* = 10.2 b* = 20.0 

 Peach tan Victoria green 

 L* = 69.5 L* = 64.7 

 a* = 8.2 a* = -23.7 

 b* = 26.0 b* = 1.1 

 Pecan brown 

 L* = 63.5 

 a* = 6.7 

 b* = 22.6 

Table 3: Select White Color Standard

 B (82 Brightness) E (Cotton Papers) 

 L* = 93.3 L* = 94.0 

 a* = 1.0 a* = -0.5 

 b* = -2.0 b* = 4.0 

 C (72 Brightness) F (80 Brightness) 

 L* = 92.0 L* = 93.5 

 a* = -0.5 a* = -0.1 

 b* = 7.5 b* = 3.0 

 D (E30) Cream-White 

 L* = 93.5 L* = 92.4 

 a* = -0.5 a* = 10.9 

 b* = 1.5 b* = -19.2 

129 
Group I

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style A: Watermark Design for 25% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style B: Watermark Design for 50% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style C: Watermark Design for 100% Writing, Bond, and Ledger Papers

Group II

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style D: Watermark Design for Recycled 25% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style E: Watermark Design for Recycled 50% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style F: Watermark Design for Recycled 100% Writing, Bond, and Ledger Papers

Watermark

Two basic Government watermarks have been established. The Group I watermarks consist simply of the ‘‘eagle’’ and a

‘‘star’’ for each 25 percent of cotton/linen fiber specified for the paper.

The Group II watermarks have the word ‘‘recycled’’ in the design. The paper stock must have a postconsumer (PC) fiber

content, whether it is a PC wood fiber or PC recovered (cotton/linen) fiber. Note, recovered material (cotton/linen) is not a

PC recovered fiber.

DRAWINGS—Watermarks

* Location of year of manufacture

130
Envelopes

There are many construction styles for envelopes. The three most common styles of office envelopes used in Federal offices

are shown below. Critical use information are included in each procurement contract. Generally these envelopes are suitable

for insertion of correspondences either manually or by automated equipment; for letterpress and offset printing, processing in

laser printers, and automated mailing sorting equipment. The printed matter may include text and line illustrations.

DRAWINGS—Envelopes

131
 
Part 4. 

STATUTORY AUTHORITY

AND

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA 
 
ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

Introduction. 

Attention is invited to the following sections of Title 44 U.S. Code 

relative to the procurement of paper for the United States 

Government. 

Section 509—“Standards of paper; advertisements for 

proposals; samples. 

The Joint Committee on Printing shall fix upon standards of paper 

for the different descriptions of public printing and binding and 

the Public Printer, under their direction, shall advertise in six 

newspapers or trade journals, published in different cities, for 

sealed proposals to furnish the Government with paper, as 

specified in the schedule to be furnished applicants by the Public 

Printer, setting forth in detail the quality and quantities required 

for the public printing. The Public Printer shall furnish samples of 

the standard of papers fixed upon to applicants who desire to bid. 

(Pub. L. 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1244.) 

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES 

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1974 ed., Section 5 (Jan. 12, 1895, ch. 23, 

Section 3, 28 Stat. 601; Mar. 3, 1925, ch. 421, section 1, 43 Stat. 

1105). 

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS 

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.” 

Section 513—“Comparison of paper and envelopes with 

standard quality. 

The Public Printer shall compare every lot of paper and envelopes 

delivered by a contractor with the standard of quality fixed upon 

by the Joint Committee on Printing and may not accept paper or 

envelopes which do not conform to it in every particular. A lot of 

delivered paper or envelopes which does not conform to the 

standard of quality may be accepted by the Committee at a 

discount that in its opinion is sufficient to protect the interests of 

the Government. (Pub. L. 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1245.) 

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES 

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1964 ed., Section 9 (Jan. 12, 1895, ch. 23, 

Section 7, 28 Stat. 602; June 20, 1936, ch. 630, title VIII, section 

13, 49 Stat. 1553). 

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS 

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.” 

Section 514—“Determination of quality of paper. 

The Joint Committee on Printing shall determine differences of 

opinion between the Public Printer and a contractor for paper 

respecting the paper’s quality and the decision of the Committee is 

final as to the United States. (Pub. L. 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 

Stat. 1245.) 

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES 

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1964 ed., Section 10 (Jan. 12, 1895, ch. 23, 

Section 8, 28 Stat. 602; Mar. 3, 1917, ch. 163, section 6, 39 Stat. 

1121). 

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS 

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.” 

Product Quality Index. 

The following acceptance criteria shall be employee to evaluate the 

paper’s conformance to specification. 

Paper that does not meet all specification values shall be accepted 

with no discount providing that the minimum acceptable Product 

Quality Index (PQI) has been met. 

The PQI for a specific paper is determined by assigning demerits to 

each deficient quality characteristic based on test results. The 

demerits assigned will vary with the category of deficiency. A minor 

defect shall be assigned 4 demerits, a major defect 12 demerits and a

critical defect 36 demerits. 

Definitions. 

Minor Defect. Any deviation from specified a value which does not 

materially reduce the usability of the paper for its intended purpose; 

or require special procedures for printing or processing. Major 

Defect. Any deviation from specified values, other than critical, that 

could result in failure, or materially reduce the usability of the paper 

for its intended purpose; or may require special procedures for 

printing or processing, or is a significant deviation from 

specifications, established standards, or average process capability, or 

may materially affect the appearance of the product. Critical Defect. 

Any deviation from specified requirement that judgment and 

experience indicate would result in the paper being unusable for its 

intended purpose; or is a serious departure from specifications, 

established standards, or average process capability. 

Product Quality Index (PQI) is equal to 100 minus the sum of the 

assessed demerits for each paper characteristic or property. 

 i=N 

PQI = 100 - Ci

 i=1 

where C= characteristic or property. 

135 
Paper having a PQI of 70 or greater shall be accepted at the 

contracted price as meeting the intent and requirement of the 

specification. That having a PQI below 70 shall be considered as 

critically defective, subject to outright rejection. 

Criteria for establishing the category of defect and demerits are as 

follows unless otherwise stated in the specification standard. 

1. Acidity (pH value) 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.20 pH unit.................... Minor 4 

0.20 to 0.40 pH unit ...................... Major 12 

More than 0.40 pH unit .................. Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.40 pH unit.................... Minor 4 

0.40 to 0.60 pH unit ...................... Major 12 

More than 0.60 pH unit .................. Critical 36 

2. Basis weight 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Not as specified ........................... Critical 36 

3. Brightness 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 percentage point .......... Minor 4 

0.5 to 1.0 percentage point .............. Major 12 

More than 1 percentage point ........... 

 OR 

More than 2 percentage points below 

the target value. 

Critical 36 

 

4. Bursting strength 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 5%................................ Minor 4 

5% to 10% .................................. Major 12 

More than 10% ............................. Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 10% .............................. Minor 4 

10% to 25% ................................. Major 12 

More than 25% ............................. Critical 36 

5. Calcium carbonate – Same as 2. 

6. Cleanliness – Same as 2. 

7. Color deviation 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 DE over specified .......... Minor 4 

 0.5 to 1.5 DE over specified ............. Major 12 

More than 1.5 DE over specified ........ 

 OR 

If standard states another DE value as 

begin critically defective. 

 

Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1.0 DE over specified .......... Minor 4 

1.0 to 2.0 DE over specified ............ Major 12 

More than 2.0 DE over specified ........ Critical 36 

8. Color 2-sidedness – Same as 2. 

9. Color variation 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

More than 0.5 DE over specified ...... Critical 36 

 10. Equilibrium relative humidity 

a. Precision requirement 

Deficiency Category Demerits

Less than +1 percentage point ............ Minor 4 

+1 to +2 percentage points ............... Major 12 

More than +2 percentage points ........ Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than +3 percentage points .......... Minor 4 

+3 to +5 percentage points ............... Major 12 

More than +5 percentage points ......... Critical 36 

 11. Folding endurance – Same as 4. 

12. Gloss – Same as 4. 

13. Oil holdout of coating – Same as 2. 

14. Oil penetration 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 10%.............................. Minor 4 

10% to 25% ................................ Major 12 

More than 25% ............................. Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 25% .............................. Minor 4 

25% to 50% ................................. Major 12 

More than 50% ............................. Critical 36 

 15. Opacity 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 percentage point .............. Minor 4 

1 to 2 percentage points .................. Major 12 

More than 2 percentage points ........... 

 OR 

Individual specimen averaging more 

than 0.5 percentage point below the 

stated minimum value. 

Critical 36 

 16. Optical brighteners (fluorescence) 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 percentage point .......... Minor 4 

0.5 to 1 percentage point .................. Major 12 

More than 1 percentage point ............ 

136 

Critical 36 
b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 percentage point ............. Minor 4 

1 to 2 percentage points ................... Major 12 

More 2 percentage points ................. Critical 36 

17. Pick resistance 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 No. below specified .......... Minor 4 

1 to 2 No. below specified .................. Major 12 

More than 2 No. below specified ........ 

 OR 

Individual specimen averaging more 

than 1 No. below the stated minimum 

value. 

Critical 36 

18. Porosity – Same as 4. 

19. Rosin – Same as 4. 

20. Smoothness – Same as 4. 

21. Stiffness – Same as 4. 

22. Stock – specified fiber content or presence of unbleached 

or ground woodpulp 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 3 percentage points from 

specified 

Minor 4 

3 to 5 percentage points from specified Major 12 

More than 5 percentage point from 

specified 

 OR 

Lignin more than 1 percentage point 

from specified. 

Critical 36 

23. Tearing strength – Same as 4. 

24. Tensile strength – Same as 4. 

25. Thickness 

a. Precision requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 2%................................ Minor 4 

2% to 4% .................................... Major 12 

More than 4% ............................... Critical 36 

b. Regular requirement 

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 4% .............................. Minor 4 

4% to 8% ................................. Major 12 

More than 8% ............................. Critical 36 

26. Thickness variation edge to edge – Same as 4 (regular 

requirement) 

27. Water resistance – Same as 14. 

28. All other measurable characteristic and properties, e.g. 

density, light transmission, reflectance drop, etc. – 

Same as 2. 

29. Subjective or judgment characteristics and properties, e.g. 

erasing and writing qualities, watermark quality, finish, 

formation, etc. 

Assessment Category Demerits

Fair or rating 2.............................. Minor 4 

Marginal or rating 3........................ Major 12 

Unacceptable or rating 4 .................. Critical 36 

Examples: Assigning Category and Demerits and Determining 

the Product Quality Index (PQI) of the Paper Stock. 

Below the calculation of Demerits is demonstrated for selected 

properties. 

a. Acidity 

Requirement is not 

less than 6.5 Result is 6.3 

Calculation 6.5 – 6.3 = 0.2 

 

If 

Precision 

requirement 

Major Category and 

12 Demerits 

 

If 

Regular 

requirement 

Minor Category and 

4 Demerits 

 

b. Brightness 

Requirement is 72 

+ 2 Result is 69.2 

Calculation 70 – 69.2 = 0.8 

Major Category and 

12 Demerits 

 

c. 

Bursting 

Strength 

Requirement is not 

less than 70 Result is 60 

Calculation

70 – 60 = 10; 

10/70 X 100% = 

14.4% 

 

If 

Precision 

requirement 

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits 

 

If 

Regular 

requirement 

Major Category and 

12 Demerits 

 

d. 

 

Stock 

Not more than 1% 

groundwood Result is 3% 

Calculation 3 – 1 = 2 

Minor Category and 

4 Demerits 

 

e. Density 

Requirement is 1.4 

to 1.6 

Result is 1.65 

Calculation 1.65 – 1.6 = 0.05 Refer to Item 28 

 Use #2 – Not as 

specified 

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits 

 

f. 

 Formation 

Requirement is 

“uniform” 

Result is “fair” and 

“rating 2” 

Assessment is Minor 

Category and 

4 Demerits 

 

g. 

 

Color 

Deviation 

Match provided 

Sample with DE 

not greater than 

0.25 Result is DE = 0.4 

Calculation

0.4 is greater than 

the specified 0.25 

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits 

137 

 
 EXAMPLE 1

 

 This paper has demerits assessed for the following 

properties: 

ID Property Category Demerits 

a. Acidity (regular) Minor 4 

 

f. Formation Minor 4 

 

g. 

Color deviation 

(precision) Critical 36 

 

 To calculate the Product Quality Index for the paper, 

 add up all the demerits and subtract from 100 

PQI = 100 – (4 + 4 + 36) 

 OR 100 – 44 

 = 56 or NOT EQUAL

 

EXAMPLE 2

 

 This paper has demerits assessed for the following 

properties: 

ID Property Category Demerits 

b. Brightness Major 12 

 

c. 

Bursting strength 

(regular) Major 12 

 

d. Stock Minor 4 

 To calculate the Product Quality Index for the paper, 

 add up all the demerits and subtract from 100. 

PQI = 100 – (12 + 12 + 4) 

 OR 100 – 28 

 = 72 or EQUAL 

138