Internal tear resistance measures the force required to continue tearing paper or board through a specified distance after the tear has been initiated. Testing can help characterise materials, compare specifications and evaluate performance for packaging and other applications.
Smithers uses Elmendorf-type tear testing for paper and heavier-weight board, with results reported in mN/ply.
Tear index can also be calculated relative to material grammage and reported in mN·m²/g.
Smithers can also measure tear initiation using an edge tear test in accordance with TAPPI T 470.
Standards and accreditation
Applicable test methods include BS EN 21974, ISO 1974, TAPPI T 414, DIN 53128 and SCAN P11.
Smithers is ISO 17025 accredited for the determination of internal tear strength to BS EN 21974 and ISO 1974.
Internal tear strength testing of paper is also included in Smithers' Paper Proficiency Service.
Talk to our experts about your paper or board material and the tear performance you need to evaluate.
