2.6.4. Absorbency Properties

The absorbency properties were determined by the methods of water absorbency capacity per unit of mass and Klemm capillary rise.

The immersion absorption method was used to determine the water absorption capacity per unit of mass of the samples. The assay was carried out according to an adaptation of ISO 12625-8. The sample was immersed for 30 s. At the end of that time, the sample was removed from the water and left to run on a support that guaranteed an amplitude of 30◦ for approximately 1 min. Finally, the amount of water that the sample was able to absorb during this time was determined. The assay was performed in triplicate for each sample.

The Klemm capillary rise method was measured through an adaptation of ISO 8787. The assay consisted of the water rising in the sample (50 mm wide) at a certain time. The capillary rise was recorded at 10, 20, 30, 60, 180, 300 and 600 s. Four readings were performed for each sample. All of the assays were performed in a controlled temperature and humidity laboratory.
