ISO 12625-10 is a specialized test method that measures the absorption speed of tissue papers and other absorbent sheet products. This standard is part of the broader ISO 12625 series, which governs physical and mechanical properties of tissue and paper hygiene products used in toilet tissue, paper towels, facial tissues, and industrial wipes.
For product developers, QA labs, and procurement teams in the paper, hygiene, and janitorial sectors, ISO 12625-10 provides a clear, repeatable method to assess how quickly a sheet absorbs liquid—a critical factor in consumer satisfaction and product performance.
📜 Full Title
ISO 12625-10:2015 – Tissue paper and tissue products – Part 10: Determination of the dry rate of absorption
Sometimes referred to as the “absorption speed” or “wetting speed” test, this standard specifically evaluates how quickly a dry tissue can absorb water under defined conditions.
🎯 Purpose of ISO 12625-10
This method helps quantify:
How fast the tissue absorbs moisture
Wicking behavior in multi-ply and embossed products
Consistency in functional performance across batches
It is used to:
Compare products during R&D
Benchmark competitor performance
Validate production consistency
Support marketing claims (e.g., “absorbs in 2 seconds”)
🧪 How the Test Works
Key Test Elements:
ParameterSpecification
Test liquidTypically distilled water
Sample orientationHorizontal sheet placement
Droplet volume~0.1 mL or as defined in the method
Timing deviceStopwatch or optical timer
End pointTime taken for the water to fully disappear (wetting time)
Procedure Overview:
A pre-cut tissue sample is laid flat in a conditioned environment.
A drop of water is gently placed onto the center of the sample using a standardized pipette or dispenser.
A timer is started immediately.
The time taken for the liquid to be fully absorbed and no longer visible is recorded in seconds.
✅ Multiple readings are taken and averaged to ensure accuracy.
📊 What ISO 12625-10 Measures
MetricUnitInterpretation
Absorption timeSeconds (s)Lower = faster absorption (better performance)
Standard deviationSeconds (s)Indicates product consistency
Optional: visual wickingmm or qualitativeUsed in comparative testing or embossing studies
📦 Where It Applies
Product TypeWhy Absorption Speed Matters
Toilet tissuePrevents surface wetting and ensures comfort
Paper towels / hand towelsKey driver of drying efficiency and user perception
Napkins and wipesInfluences cleaning efficiency and usage rate
Industrial absorbentsCritical for spill response and liquid control
🏭 Factors That Affect Absorption Speed
VariableEffect on Speed
Fiber type (e.g., virgin vs. recycled)Impacts porosity and surface energy
Ply count and embossingChanges capillary structure and surface area
Surface coatings or sizingMay retard or enhance wetting
Basis weight (GSM)Heavier sheets may absorb slower if not porous
Calendering or compressionOver-calendered sheets may have reduced pore access
✅ Why ISO 12625-10 Matters
Supports objective benchmarking between SKUs or competitors
Helps optimize fiber recipes for softness and functionality
Ensures consistency in high-volume production environments
Informs marketing claims that require performance proof
Aligns with retailer and private-label specifications in hygiene categories
Final Takeaway
ISO 12625-10 provides the gold-standard method for measuring how fast a tissue or absorbent paper absorbs liquid. In a market where user experience is tied to performance, this test helps manufacturers deliver products that not only feel soft—but work fast.
For buyers, labs, and product teams, absorption speed isn’t just a number—it’s a direct link to quality perception, usage rate, and brand loyalty.
