ASTM E2346-04

The methods outlined in this guide can be used to qualitatively and quantitatively describe the sensory characteristics and performance of trigger hard surface household cleaning products for nonporous surfaces.

The methods are suited for descriptive analysis and may be adaptable for consumer acceptance research.

This guide provides the procedure for the evaluation of package, application, performance, after-use and fragrance aspects of hard surface cleaners. Depending on the test objectives, all or some of these measures may be used.

This guide, as defined by ASTM, is designed for use for product research guidance in product formulation, new product development, and quality control issues.

This guide is a compendium of information or series of options that does not recommend a specific course of action. This guide is not intended for claim substantiation, as it has not been subjected to validation testing.

This guide is for use by individuals who familiarize themselves with these procedures and who have previous experience with sensory evaluations. It is suggested that the individuals have some experience with developing and training a descriptive panel or work under the supervision of a sensory professional who has.

This guide might involve hazardous materials. This guide does not claim to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this guide to establish appropriate safety and healthy practices and to determine the applicability of limitations prior to use.

1.1 This guide covers guidelines specific to the sensory evaluation of trigger hard surface cleaners. It covers the procedure for preparing a nonporous surface with the intent to measure one or all of the various aspects of a trigger product: package, application, performance, after-use and fragrance characteristics.

1.2 This guide for preparing a nonporous surface may also be used to assess other sensory aspects of a trigger hard surface cleaner, visual, tactile, fragrance, and performance or package ergonomics. It is applicable for use with highly trained assessors and descriptive panels and can be used for consumer acceptance evaluation.

1.3 This guide for preparing nonporous hard surfaces is intended to focus on surface preparation and evaluation, not on panel selection, training, or development.

1.4 The reader should be aware that good sensory practices are required when preparing the surfaces, and in developing and training the panelists.

1.5 The researcher is responsible for identifying the most appropriate test design and using the appropriate statistical tool to address that experimental design.

1.6 Since this guide's intended use is to provide direction on the presentation and measurement of the different aspects of spray trigger hard surface cleaners, this guide may not accurately represent all possible soils and surfaces where spray trigger hard surface cleaners may be used.

1.7 This guide provides suggested procedures and is not meant to exclude alternate procedures that may be effectively used to provide the same results.

1.8 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 and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.