Surface strength of paper (wax pick test)

This method, applicable to uncoated and coated papers, is designed to measure the surface strength of paper or its resistance to picking. It is not applicable to loosely felted papers such as blotters or roofing felts, nor to papers containing materials that soften with heat such as waxes or latex type additives. Light weight papers that lack stiffness may slip under the block during the wax removal step are not suitable for testing by this procedure.