buffer

n.A substance that can neutralize acids; an alkali.A means or mechanism that can transform an irregular flow to a regular rate, especially in data transmission.A means or mechanism for reducing shock or impact.A technique in geographic information systems that can indicate a region around a data point to show a an area of influence or interaction.

Notes

A buffer1 made from calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate is often added to paper to compensate for residual manufacturing acids or from acidic environmental contaminants.