ASTM D6148

Introducing ASTM D6148 – Industrial Physics

ASTM D6148 is the standard test method for determining macrostickies in recycled paper and pulp. These contaminants include pressure‑sensitive adhesives, hot melts, coatings, plastics, and other tacky materials that can cause sheet defects, picking, print issues, and costly machine downtime.

The method provides a structured, repeatable way to separate stickies from fibers and visually assess the level of contamination in recycled furnishes — a critical step for mills aiming to improve product quality and reduce customer complaints.

What ASTM D6148 Covers

ASTM D6148 outlines procedures for screening recycled pulp at low consistency to isolate macrostickies and other large contaminants. Key elements include:

• Mechanical separation of fibers from macrostickies
• Low‑consistency screening to protect fiber structure
• Deposition of contaminants onto filter paper for visual evaluation
• Identification of stickies, hot melts, coatings, plastics, and related materials
• Consistent sample preparation and screening parameters

The method applies to:

• Recycled pulp and mixed‑fiber furnishes
• Deinking and repulping operations
• Furnish evaluation at multiple process points
• QC, troubleshooting, and contaminant‑reduction programs

ASTM D6148 provides a clear, standardized way to quantify macrostickies and understand how they move through your system.

Where ASTM D6148 Is Used

This standard is widely used across pulp and paper operations, including:

• Recycled‑fiber mills
• Tissue, packaging, and printing‑paper producers
• Deinking plants and repulping systems
• Screening‑system optimization programs
• R&D and quality‑control laboratories

It supports both routine monitoring and targeted troubleshooting of macrostickies.

Why Macrostickies Analysis Matters

Understanding macrostickies content is essential for:

• Reducing sheet defects, picking, and print issues
• Preventing machine fouling and downtime
• Identifying sources of contamination across the process
• Improving screening efficiency and furnish cleanliness
• Supporting continuous improvement and customer satisfaction

Macrostickies that slip through early often become costly problems later — ASTM D6148 helps you catch them before they reach the machine.

Testing solutions for ASTM D6148

One product from the Industrial Physics portfolio aligns directly with ASTM D6148’s focus on contaminant and stickies detection:

Technidyne Pulmac MasterScreen™ Fiber Contaminant Analyzer

The MasterScreen™ shows you exactly what’s hiding in your pulp. It mechanically separates fibers from stickies, dirt, shives, vessel cell elements, plastics, and hot melts at low consistency. Contaminants are automatically deposited onto filter paper, giving you a clear visual record of what’s in your furnish — no guesswork, no interpretation required.

When macrostickies or other contaminants appear in your finished product, the MasterScreen™ helps you trace them back to the source. Sample anywhere in your process — digesters, refiners, cleaners, grinders, repulpers, or screening systems — and the MasterScreen™ isolates what’s getting through. The result: fewer complaints, less downgraded product, and faster troubleshooting.

Industrial Physics also provides deep knowledge resources on pulp evaluation, including guidance on standard methods such as TAPPI T275 and broader insights into contaminant analysis to help you maximize the MasterScreen™’s performance.

Your Global Test and Measurement Partner for ASTM D6148

Industrial Physics supports pulp and paper producers with the tools and expertise needed to evaluate contaminants in line with ASTM D6148. From low‑consistency screening to fiber‑strength testing, handsheet preparation, and contaminant analysis, we help ensure your furnish is clean, stable, and ready for production.