Sorption Measurement
Standard testing of paper and board moisture interaction determines the quantity of water absorbed by a unit area of substrate over a specified duration. This evaluation is governed by cobb water absorptiveness ISO 535, which defines the standard apparatus and procedure for placing a column of water on the surface of the specimen. The resulting value, expressed in grams per square meter, dictates the suitability of the board for high-humidity transit or cold-chain storage.
Paper mills and converters use this measurement to assess the effectiveness of internal sizing agents added to the pulp slurry to resist liquid penetration.
Test Execution
Execution of the procedure involves clamping a circular metal ring over a pre-weighed sheet, filling it with water for a set period like sixty seconds, and then blotting the excess before re-weighing. This short contact time simulates the exposure a carton encounters during gluing or outdoor exposure. Accurate blotting with the specified heavy metal roller is critical to remove surface liquid without drawing moisture out of the fibers.
Application Outcome
Low absorptiveness values prevent water-based adhesives from wetting the board too quickly during carton forming. If the substrate absorbs liquid too rapidly, the glue dries prematurely and produces a weak bond that fails on the filling line. Conversely, a surface that resists water entirely prevents the adhesive from anchoring, which leads to popped flaps.