ASTM D5455-93(2003)

The Bristow test provides a measure of the short-term sorption of water or other liquids by paper. The U.S. Postal Service has used this test method to predict the drying times of bar codes sprayed onto envelopes by inkjet. The Bristow test is also used to measure ink sorption by paper for a variety of printing purposes. The particular significance of this test method is its ability to characterize the sorptive properties of a paper or paper product surface independent of the thickness or bulk of the material under test.

1.1 This test method measures the amount of test fluid absorbed onto the surface of a paper specimen under specified test conditions.

1.2 The conditions required in this test method specify reagent water as the absorbed test fluid, and a calculated time available for test fluid absorption of 1.6 s.

1.3 This test method may also be used for the measurement of solution absorption of liquids other than water having viscosities up to 100 millipascal seconds, including but not limited to inks and other water or solvent-based fluids, for surfaces other than paper, and for calculated time periods available for fluid absorption ranging from about 0.01 to about 4.0 s, or any combination of these variables, upon prior agreement of those involved.

1.4 Further information regarding the use of this test method under conditions other than the standard ones in accordance with are included in Appendix X1.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.