Are "archival" double sided tapes safe?

[Benny Profane]

Are they really archival?

[TonyW]

Acid neutral ATG tape for instance may be considered archival in as much as it should not react with boards and most papers.  However, it should not come anywhere near the artwork or be used for mounting prints directly.

Archival mounting strips may be a better alternative for non permanent print holding these are made from conservation quality polyester and acid free paper with a self adhesive backing strip and no adhesive can come into contact with the artwork.

http://blog.ukpictureframingsupplies.co.uk/picture-mounting/conservation-mounting-protection-artwork/

[Benny Profane]

I was at an exhibition yesterday and was admiring a photo that was unmatted, floating in a larger frame. It was a nice look, had a very slight curl on the bottom to emphasize the float. I am assuming it was adhered to the backing board with tape of some sort. Also an affordable way to frame. Maybe not archival, but, hey, five to ten years? I could live with that.

[BobShaw]

Are they really archival?

Framers have used them for probably decades to stick double and triple mats together, so I would say yes.