Testing Standard:
Overview:
ASTM D3285 is used to evaluate the materials rate of water absorption. This test method applies to most non-bibulous materials, such as paper and paperboard. Purple Diamond Testing offers ASTM D3285 Testing as part of our packaging compliance and validation services.Â
According to https://www.document-center.com/standards/show/ASTM-D3285, “1.1 This test method covers the determination of the quantity of water absorbed in a specified time by non-bibulous paper and paperboard with a minimum thickness of 0.1 mm. This test method is generally applicable to sized paper and paperboard, but is not recommended as a sizing test for writing papers. The test method is based upon studies by Cobb and Loew, Cobb, and other investigators (1, 2, 3, 4).“
The ability to resist the penetration of water in packaging is really important, especially if the packaged goods are moving internationally in distribution. In particular, the Cobb Test determines the quantity of water that will be absorbed by the surface of the paper or board in a given time frame. Due to various paper and board characteristics, the test of water absorption is a function is relative to the sizing and porosity of the paper and board being tested. This test is often involved in obtaining certain certifications such as those that involve hazardous materials packaging. The standard method is useful when testing a different variety of hygroscopic surfaces that are originally designed to resist water absorption.
Rationale for ASTM D3285:
Test Method for Water Absorbency of Non-Bibulous Paper and Paperboard (Cobb Test). The amount of moisture in paper materials affects the overall physical strength, porosity, and end useability. This test method can be ideal when comparing different materials or verifying a material is within a specified range of acceptance. A predetermined volume of water is applied to the material and the time it takes to be absorbed is recorded.Â
According to Scribd.com, “The Water Absorption Apparatus, to permit one side of the specimen to be wetted uniformly at the moment the soaking period begins, and to allow controlled rapid removal of the water from the specimen at the end of the test period. The cross bar has a hole at one end and a slot at the other to facilitate assembly and use. On the base plate is a rubber mat, larger than the outside dimensions of the ring, on which the specimen is clamped.
Key Points for ASTM D3285:
- Indicates any design flaws and identifies any potential issues during distribution
- Utilize this test method to ensure quality control
- Verifies material strength to manufacturer’s specifications
Related Standards:
- TAPPI T441 – Water Absorptiveness of Sized (Non-Bibulous) Paper, Paperboard, and Corrugated Fiberboard (Cobb Test)
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Related Testing Standards
- ASTM D642
- ASTM D685
- ASTM D880
- ASTM D951
- ASTM D999
- ASTM D3078
- ASTM D3103
- ASTM D3285
- ASTM D4169
- ASTM D4332
- ASTM D4728
- ASTM D5265
- ASTM D5276
- ASTM D5277
- ASTM D5487
- ASTM D6055
- ASTM D6179
- ASTM D6344
- ASTM D6653
- ASTM D7386
- ASTM F88
- ASTM F1140
- ASTM F1886
- ASTM F1929
- ASTM F1980
- ASTM F2096
- ASTM F2250
- ASTM F3039
Accreditations
Affiliations
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 The APASS program was designed by Amazon to help support vendors, sellers, and manufacturers in obtaining certification of their products as Frustration Free Packaging (FFP), Ships in Own Container (SIOC), or Prep-Free Packaging (PFP).
