Calculate the volume of paper from paper thickness and paper weight. The paper volume Vspez is the ratio between these two values, it is not an ordinary volume, but a specific volume. Its unit cm³/g commonly isn't indicated. Normal paper has the volume 1, the higher the value, the thicker is paper of the same weight and the more grippy it is.
The formula is: Vspez = paper thickness * 1000 / paper weight
Example: 80 grams paper with a thickness of 0,1 millimeter has a paper volume of 1.25.
Paper weight should, of course, be more accurately described as paper mass. However, the terms grams and kilograms for weight are so deeply ingrained in everyday language that they are used here as well.
The specific volume of paper is a key parameter that determines the quality and suitability of the material for various applications. While the basis weight in grams per square meter (g/m²) indicates how much mass a paper has per unit area, the specific volume describes how dense or airy the paper is at that weight. A higher value means that the paper is thicker for the same weight. Such papers are particularly suitable for high-quality printed products such as invitations and certificates. Conversely, papers with a specific volume below 1 have a more compact structure. They are thinner and denser, making them ideal for applications where space saving or a smooth surface is paramount, such as newsprint or copy paper. Choosing the right paper volume therefore depends heavily on the intended use. While a high value is often associated with exceptional quality, lower values are advantageous for functional, everyday products. In addition, the specific volume plays a role in printability. Thicker papers absorb printing ink differently than thinner ones, which affects color brilliance and drying behavior. Overall, paper bulk is therefore not just a technical specification, but also an indicator of functionality and aesthetics.
© Jumk.de Webprojects | Online Calculators | Imprint & Privacy | German: Rechner für Papierformate
