This test method covers the measurement of the thickness of most nonwoven fabrics.

This standard is being withdrawn with no replacement because D13 no longer has the technical expertise to maintain.

Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee D13 on Textiles, this test methods were withdrawn in October 2008.

This test method is used in the trade for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of nonwoven fabrics; however, caution is advised since information about between-laboratory precision is incomplete. Comparative tests as directed in 5.1.1 may be advisable.

5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type in question. Test specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using the appropriate Student’t-test and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before testing is begun. If a bias is found, either is cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results with consideration to the known bias.

Thickness is one of the basic physical properties of nonwoven fabrics. In certain industrial applications, the thickness may require rigid control within specified limits. Bulk and warmth properties of nonwoven fabrics are often estimated from their thickness values, and thickness is also useful in measuring performance characteristics, such as, before and after abrasion and shrinkage.

The thickness values of most nonwoven fabrics will vary considerably depending on the pressure applied to the specimen at the time the thickness measurement is taken. In all cases, the apparent thickness varies inversely with the pressure applied. For this reason, it is essential that the pressure be specified when discussing or listing any thickness value.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the thickness of most nonwoven fabrics.

1.2 This test method applies to most nonwoven fabrics that are treated or untreated, including those heavily sized, coated or resin-treated.

1.3 This test method may not be useful for highloft nonwoven fabrics. For thickness of highloft nonwoven fabric see Test Method D 5736.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The U.S. customary units (inch-pound) may be approximate.

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.