Chat with us

Standard copy paper emits up to 55 million particles per sheet. Cleanroom paper keeps it below 500,000. Full comparison table, test methods, and audit tips.

Product Parameters – Cleanroom Paper Grades
ParameterOffice Copy Paper (80 gsm)ISO 6 Cleanroom PaperISO 5 Cleanroom Paper (antistatic)
Particle emission (≥0.5µm per A4 sheet)45 – 65 million0.8 – 1.2 million0.3 – 0.5 million
Particle emission (≥5µm per sheet)2.1 million18,0006,000
Surface resistivity (antistatic option)>10¹² Ω/sq (not controlled)10¹⁰ – 10¹¹ Ω/sq10⁹ – 10¹⁰ Ω/sq
Edge dust after tearing (visual, 10x magnification)High – loose fibers visibleLow – occasional fiberNone to very low
Tensile strength MD (kN/m)5.24.13.8
Perforation optionsNoMicroperf (low dust)Laser-cut perf
Typical applicationsOffice printingISO 7–8 cleanroomsISO 5–6 cleanrooms, electronics
Industry & Applications
  • Pharmaceutical (EU GMP Annex 1): Batch records in Grade B filling rooms require paper that passes particle emission tests. Regular paper has caused 483 observations.

  • Aerospace assembly: Work orders and inspection logs used inside laminar flow benches during composite layup.

  • Biotech labs: Label printing for cryovials and sample containers – regular paper fibers can contaminate PCR results.

  • Electronics cleanrooms: Antistatic cleanroom paper prevents electrostatic damage to sensitive boards during documentation.

Test Data & Methods

We followed IEST-RP-CC003.4 for particle emission. A single sheet of standard office paper (80 gsm, multipurpose) was agitated in a chamber. Airborne particles ≥0.5µm jumped from baseline 1,000/m³ to 54.2 million/m³ within 30 seconds. The same test with 70 gsm cleanroom paper increased to only 420,000/m³ – a 99.2% reduction.

NVR (Non-Volatile Residue) Testing

We also measured extractable residues (IEST-RP-CC005.4). Office paper leached 0.8 mg of residue per sheet when soaked in IPA. Cleanroom paper leached less than 0.05 mg. That invisible residue can cause adhesion failures in bonding or coating.

Audit Tip

If you are preparing for an FDA or EU audit, place a piece of standard paper next to a laminar flow hood. Ask your quality manager to wipe the hood surface after handling regular paper for 2 minutes. Then test for particles. That usually convinces management to switch.

Recommendation by Cleanroom Class
ISO ClassRecommended Paper TypeEdge TreatmentReplacement Interval
8Standard cleanroom paper (60 gsm)Microperf12 months
770 gsm cleanroom paperUltrasonic cut6–9 months
670–80 gsm antistaticLaser cut6 months
580 gsm low-particle, heat-sealedLaser cut + sealed3–4 months (opened)

Share:

More Posts

Why Your ESD Floor Is Not Grounded Until You Use the Right Mop

We tested three common cleanroom mop types for electrical continuity, particle generation, and cleaning efficiency. The results show that the mop you choose directly affects your floor’s ESD performance. The three mop types tested Mop type Head material Handle material Claimed ESD property A – Standard cotton mop Cotton yarn Aluminum or plastic None B

Why Customizable Cleanroom Wiper Rolls Save Money and Reduce Waste

Length, width, mandrel shape, and mandrel dimension – four customizable parameters for cleanroom wiper rolls. Real data shows 30% waste reduction and lower cost per wipe. The four customizable parameters – and why each matters Parameter What it controls Why it matters Length How many meters of wiper material on the roll Determines change‑out frequency.

How Often Should You Change Cleanroom Gloves? 

We tracked particle buildup on cleanroom gloves over 4 hours. Glove contamination doubles after 90 minutes. Real data and a simple change schedule to protect your product. How much contamination accumulates on a glove over time? We ran a simple test: ten operators in an ISO 6 cleanroom wore brand‑new nitrile ESD gloves. Every 30

The Ultimate Guide to Contamination Control in Critical Environments

Cleanroom swabs are essential for contamination control in semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and medical device manufacturing. This comprehensive guide covers cleanroom swab types, materials, applications, and selection criteria to help you choose the right tool for your critical environment. Introduction: The Hidden Threat of Contamination In semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical production, and medical device manufacturing, the smallest particle

Send Us A Message