Exploring Tactile Properties of Tissue with Moire Interferometry, 1997 Papermakers Conference Proceedings

The surface topography of many household and personal care products contributes significantly to physical performance and to human sensory perception of the product. Methods are needed for accurate measurement of surface structure in order to assess and document the properties of new materials and products.

One such method, moire interferometry, has proven to be a powerful tool for rapidly measuring surfaces of tissue and other materials. This noncontacting, optical method offers high speed and good resolution while avoiding many of the pitfalls that occur with contacting methods such as stylus probes. A commercial moire interferometry system has been adapted for analysis of tissue surfaces and measurement of parameters linked to tactile properties. The system creates and displays a topographical map with 250,000 data points in under 30 seconds, often with no special sample preparation required. Customized software tools explore features of importance in tissue products, such as crepe folds, embossing clarity, and fabric markings. Examples of successful applications are given.