Work Item
ASTM WK85223
New Guide for Odor Evaluation of Absorbent Hygiene Articles
1. Scope
1.1 This guide provides guidance in establishing procedures to be used in the design and analysis of odor evaluation studies to quantitatively assess product odors and odor control of absorbent hygiene products utilizing trained panels.
1.2 Many aspects of odor assessments, such as assessor selection and training and sample preparation and presentation are outlined in ASTM E3261, Standard Guide for Odor Evaluation of Products and Materials Under Controlled Conditions with Trained Panel. To minimize redundancy, this guide will highlight unique or critical considerations related to odor assessment of absorbent hygiene articles.
1.3 This guide addresses sample preparation and presentation methodologies to simulate the environment and exposure of absorbent hygiene products.
1.4 This guide addresses the use of natural and model malodors in absorbent hygiene products.
1.5 This guide does not recommend a universal, specific testing method for all products. Based on the product design, the user is responsible for designing the appropriate test and identifying the analysis tools corresponding to the research question and intended use of the product using this standard as a guide.
Keywords
odor, hygiene, diapers, pads, absorbent, malodor, adult incontinence
Rationale
Odor control is one of the top performance criteria in a variety of absorbent hygiene articles, including diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine care products, and pet pads. Additionally, odors of the unused product themselves are often a concern of the consumer. Regardless of the specific product and its application, there are common sample preparation and sensory assessment techniques that may be employed to test product odors and malodor control performance. Currently, there is no standard for this testing. This standard can be used by product developers and material suppliers to test and understand material/product odors as well as the odor control effectiveness of these materials and final products.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 02-08-2023
Technical Contact: Michael Mcginley
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: