Manila paper
Manila paper (Spanish: 'Papel de Manila') is a relatively inexpensive type of paper, generally made through a less-refined process than other types of paper, and is typically made from semi-bleached wood fibers.
| Manila paper | |
|---|---|
A stack of manila paper | |
| Material type | Paper |
| Physical properties | |
| Density (ρ) | ≥0.70 |
| Mechanical properties | |
| Tensile strength (σt) | ≥3.5 |
The manila component of the name originates from manila hemp (a.k.a. abacá leaves), which was named after Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Beginning in the 1840s, recycled abacá rope fibers were the main material for manila paper.
Before the end of the 20th century, papermakers replaced the abacá fibers with wood pulp, which cost less to source and process. Despite the change in production material, "the name and color remain."
Since at least 1915, manila paper has been shaped to create manila file folders and manila envelopes.