The Abbey pH Pen

Preservation Technologies has entered into an agreement with Abbey Publications founder Ellen McCrady to continue production of the Abbey pH Pen. The agreement ensures that the pen will remain available in its original formula for archivists, librarians and conservators to use to identify acidic or alkaline paper.

The Abbey pH Pen is part of a legacy that includes the Abbey Newsletter and Alkaline Paper Advocate. These valuable, now-retired publications have been an important element of the campaign to preserve archival and library collections and advance the use of long-lasting paper for publishers, picture framers and the general public.

Ellen developed the Abbey pH pen over 15 years ago as a simple tool to spot-test books and other dry paper materials for acidity. She chose chlorophenol red as the pH indicator agent, in part because it provides a consistent color response to a given pH level regardless of the agent's concentration in the pen nib. This characteristic is necessary for accurate and reliable test results. Preservation Technologies has carefully preserved her pen design, including its chlorophenol red formulation, felt tip, grey barrel and purple cap.

To use the Abbey pH Pen, draw a small line or spot in an unobtrusive area of the material being tested. If the mark is pale yellow, the paper is acidic. If the mark is pale purple, the paper is neutral or alkaline. On papers of intermediate acidity, the mark will turn a tan color that combines yellow and purple. The light shade of the line helps make the spot-test as inconspicuous as possible.

For more information about the Abbey pH Pen, call 1.800.416.2665 or contact us via email.