Grease resistance testing

Grease resistance testing is used to measure the repellence of paper and board materials to grease, oil and waxes.

The Kit test measures the degree of repellence or anti-wicking of paper and boards which have been treated with fluorochemical sizing agents used to prevent wetting of the cellulose fibres of the material. Test solutions with varying strengths of castor oil, toluene, heptane and turpentine are used. The highest numbered solution (the most aggressive) that remains on the surface of the paper without causing failure is reported as the "kit rating" (maximum 12).

The Kit test is used to quantify or compare the performance of papers and boards, used for food contact and other packaging applications where resistance to grease staining is important.

The Kit rating should only be taken as a guide to performance and Pira would always recommend testing of the actual product grease in contact with the paper or board before use.

Pira testing is performed to the Tappi standard T454 and MOD Def standard 81-93/2 Annex A.

Expert Profile

  • Doug joined Pira in 1989 and has 20 years experience in the physical testing of packaging and packaging materials. He heads a team specialising in packaging and print related technical investigations. In 2004 Doug gained his postgraduate degree with distinction in Packaging Technology from Brunel University.

    Doug Leatherdale
    Doug Leatherdale

    Head of Physical Testing

    Pira International

    +44 1372 80 2108

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