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D3905-93 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Classification
ASTM D3905-93 establishes the standard specification for toilet tissue intended for industrial and institutional use, including applications within government agencies, school boards, and industry. The standard differentiates products by Type (based on physical properties defined in Table 1) and Style (Style I for roll formats and Style II for folded formats). It explicitly governs virgin, recycled, and recycled content paper products, with inch-pound units serving as the primary standard system for measurement and compliance.
⚙️ Test Methods and Physical Requirements
All physical properties must be conditioned and tested in accordance with ASTM D685 or TAPPI T402. The average value of each characteristic—including tensile strength, absorption, and grammage—must strictly conform to the ranges specified in Table 1 for the designated Type. Workmanship requirements mandate cleanly cut edges and freedom from holes, tears, wrinkles, and foreign materials.
| 📏 Property | 📐 Test Method | 🎯 Typical Units | ⚡ Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grammage (Substance) | ASTM D646 / TAPPI T410 | lb / 3000 ft² (g/m²) | As specified in Table 1 |
| Tensile Breaking Strength | ASTM D828 / TAPPI T494 / T404 | lbf/in (kN/m) | Varies by Type (Table 1) |
| Water Absorption Rate | ASTM D824 / TAPPI T432 | seconds | Varies by Type (Table 1) |
| Brightness | TAPPI T452 / T525 | % | As agreed between parties |
⚠️ Safety Hazard Caveat: Per Section 1.4, this standard does not purport to address all safety concerns. Users of the standard are responsible for establishing suitable safety and health practices and determining the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use, particularly when performing the test methods described in Section 9.
📊 Ordering Information and Quality Agreements
Because this specification allows significant flexibility, accurate procurement is critical. Section 5 requires that orders specify the exact Type, Style, and wrapping type. Key dimensional and performance metrics—such as the number of sheets per roll, sheet dimensions, roll diameter, core diameter, and fiber composition (virgin vs. recycled content)—must be explicitly agreed upon between the buyer and seller. Furthermore, precise defect levels and acceptable quality levels (AQL) must be negotiated per Section 8.1.
💡 Best Practice for Procurement: Document all buyer-seller agreements in writing, including the fiber content ratio (Section 6), dimensional tolerances (Section 7.2), and acceptable quality limits (Section 8.1). This ensures the delivered product conforms precisely to operational requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the primary distinction between Style I and Style II toilet tissue?
Style I designates toilet tissue wound in a roll, while Style II designates folded (interleaved) tissue, typically used in institutional high-capacity dispensers.
💡 Does the standard mandate a specific recycled fiber content?
No. Section 6 requires the tissue to be unglazed but stipulates that the specific ratio of virgin to recycled fiber must be mutually agreed upon between the buyer and seller.
⚡ Which tensile test methods are referenced in the specification?
The standard references ASTM D828 and TAPPI T494 using a Constant-Rate-of-Elongation apparatus, as well as TAPPI T404 as an alternative pendulum-type tester for determining tensile breaking strength.
📌 How is product brightness handled under this standard?
Brightness is not a fixed requirement in Table 1 but can be invoked when required by the purchaser, as specified in Section 7.4. Testing must follow TAPPI T452 (Directional reflectance at 457 nm).