Standardizing the Reporting of Abrasive Papers Used to Surface Tree-Ring Samples

Abstract

Dendrochronologists traditionally report the grit size on abrasive papers used to prepare surfaces for tree-ring analysis, but significant differences exist in the measured particle size ranges defined by the different systems (e.g. FEPA, ANSI, ISO, JIS, etc.) used worldwide. The systems themselves are also subject to change and discontinuation. We propose that dendrochronologists report (1) the standard used to manufacture the grit (e.g. ANSI in the U.S.), (2) the grade within the standard (e.g. 400-grit), and (3) the SI equivalent measurements of mean or included-range grit-size dimensions (e.g. 20.6-23.6 μm). For example, rather than reporting our use of 60-grit or 400-grit, we would instead report ANSI 60-grit (250- 297 μm) and ANSI 400-grit (20.6-23.6 μm) sandpaper. Adopting SI equivalents will help standardize our methods by providing concise, replicable information about surface preparation, considered by many the most crucial step for helping to define clear ring boundaries and to ensure successful crossdating.