The new testing device from the SKZ Plastics Center in Würzburg works in accordance with the ISO 15106-2 standard and allows the water vapour permeability to be determined under variable climatic conditions. The measuring range covers relative humidities between 5 and 95 percent and temperatures from 10 to 50 degrees Celsius. Nitrogen serves as the carrier gas. With sample sizes of up to 50 square centimetres and material thicknesses of up to around 2.5 millimetres, different types of film can be tested in a practical manner. Two independent measuring chambers enable parallel tests and thus shorten measuring times.
Significance for various industries
The determination of water vapor permeability is a key quality criterion in many branches of industry. In food packaging, a suitable barrier protects against spoilage and loss of aroma, while in the pharmaceutical industry it helps to preserve sensitive active ingredients. In electronics, too, an effective barrier layer prevents the penetration of moisture that could lead to component damage.
Extended testing services at the SKZ
"The PermeH2O significantly expands our possibilities in the area of permeability testing. In future, we will be able to test films for various applications in accordance with standards and evaluate the effects of material or process engineering changes," says Franziska Eichhorn, Senior Engineer in the Spectroscopy group at SKZ. The Würzburg institute uses the new device both for its own research projects and for contract testing for industrial partners who want to validate the quality and performance of their materials.