scope:

1.1 This test method covers the use of image analysis to determine the level of dirt in pulp, paper, and paperboard in terms of Equivalent Black Area (EBA) of dirt specks within the physical area range of 0.02 to 3.0 mm reported in parts per million as well as the number of dirt specks per square meter of sample. Using the algorithm prescribed in this test method, the maximum dirt size is limited to 3.0 mm. Extention to other speck sizes (for example those greater than 3.0 mm in physical area), may require changes in equipment, calculation procedures, or both, and is not covered in this test method. This test method cannot be used for physical area measurements since it does not correctly measure the dirt specks for that mode of measurement.