Paper Testing at IPST has over 2800 square feet of lab space dedicated to address any paper, board, and specialty product testing needs in areas of strength, optical, surface, and structural properties.  In addition to conventional Tappi method testing capabilities, the Paper Testing group can provide special services in the areas of environmental simulations and accelerated aging.  Environmental chambers cover high and low temperature and humidity conditions.  Unique capabilities include precision paper grinding or sheet splitting to produce specific thickness sections, score cracking of linerboards, needle abrasion testing to predict relative slitter and knife blade wear caused by abrasive components in both base sheet and coating materials, nondestructive in-plane and out-of-plane (Z-directional) ultrasonic testing, optical 3D Moiré surface topography for the measurement of curl or cockle.    Our labs also offer the latest automated capabilities for real time hygroexpansive response measurements, and horizontal plane static and kinetic coefficient of friction determinations.  Humidity and temperature conditions are monitored and tracked continually to ensure proper standard Tappi conditions of 23 degrees C and 50 % RH. 

The results from the IPST Paper Analysis Laboratory are guaranteed validated through IPST active participation in the Collaborative Testing Services Inc., and PAPRICAN Paper and Pulp Monitor programs.  Over 400 technician hours are annually devoted to regular periodic round-robin intra-laboratory comparisons of testing results. This ensures that the equipment, methods and results are consistent with correct industry practice.

Each contract is concluded with the issue of a formal report of measurements and analyses communicated in electronic form. Typical turn-around time for projects is within two weeks from receipt of samples. Projects are initiated through contact with the IPST lab manager.