In Finland, the government not only sets permanence specifications for paper to be used for archival records, but tests it on demand and publishes an annual list of materials and methods that pass the tests. The specifications are based on recent research, and reflect current standards. The Research Center submits the test result to the National Archives, which publishes annually, in a February issue of the Official Gazette, a list of materials and methods found suitable for the preparation of permanently retained records. Both kinds must be watermarked, and the permanent paper must bear some identification in the watermark of the manufacturer, the number of the paper, and the year of manufacture. The furnish can be either rag or chemical pulp, but not recycled fiber.
Durability is measured by fold and tear.
All these specifications seem reasonable enough, and not far different from permanence standards developed in this country. What really sets this standard off from all the rest is the accelerated aging test. Standards also exist for microfilms and magnetic tapes for Finnish archives. Inc. All rights reserved.