ASTM E3489-25

1.1 This guide provides guidance in establishing procedures to be used in the design and analysis of odor evaluation studies intended to quantitatively assess product odors and odor control of absorbent hygiene products including, but not limited to, adult, baby, feminine, and pet absorbent products such as disposable and reusable garments, diapers, pads, pet pads, and cat litter, utilizing trained panels.

1.2 Many aspects of odor assessments, such as assessor selection and training and sample preparation and presentation are outlined in Guide E3261. To minimize redundancy, this guide will highlight unique or important 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 test objectives using this standard as a guide.

1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 This guide provides general guidelines and recommendations for evaluating odor of absorbent hygiene articles simulating product experience under controlled conditions. Absorbent hygiene categories include but are not limited to, adult, baby, feminine, and pet absorbent products. Assessments may include finished products or individual materials/components of the finished product.

5.2 The procedures in this document are intended to simulate or exaggerate real world in-use and disposal product odor experience with assessment by trained panels and are not designed for direct use during consumer testing. The complete odor experience is a combination of the biology, insult malodor, product odors, and environmental context.

5.3 Multiple sensory evaluation methods may be required to get a complete understanding of the product usage experience through the entire product lifecycle. Additionally, parts of this guide may be used for targeted work that can still be meaningful, such as a single, aged time point.

5.4 This guide is unique due to the typically unpleasant odors experienced with the use of absorbent hygiene articles. These undesirable odors from bodily secretions, referred to as malodors, are a source for product development opportunities for odor control.

5.5 Common odor control approaches include removal of odorants (for example, by absorption, adsorption, or chemical reaction), change of perceived odor (for example, by masking or nose-blocking), and prevention of odor formation (for example, by bacterial inhibition or enzyme inhibition). Considerations should include the appropriateness of the odor control approach with the insult used. For example, odor control by inhibiting the bacterial formation of malodor can only be evaluated by including malodor generating bacteria in the test system.