Standard Test Method for Determining Gas Permeability Characteristics of Plastic Film and Sheeting

5.1 These measurements give semiquantitative estimates for the gas transmission of single pure gases through film and sheeting. Correlation of measured values with any given use, such as packaged contents protection, must be determined by experience. The gas transmission rate is affected by conditions not specifically provided for in these tests, such as moisture content (Note 2), plasticizer content, and nonhomogeneities. These tests do not include any provision for testing seals that may be involved in packaging applications.

5.2 Interlaboratory testing has revealed that permeances measured by these procedures exhibit a strong dependence on the procedure being used, as well as on the laboratory performing the testing. Agreement with other methods is sometimes poor and may be material-dependent. The materials being tested often affect the between-laboratory precision. The causes of these variations are not known at this time. It is suggested that this method not be used for referee purposes unless purchaser and seller can both establish that they are measuring the same quantity to a mutually agreed upon level of precision.

5.3 Use of the permeability coefficient (involving conversion of the gas transmission rate to a unit thickness basis) is not recommended unless the thickness-to-transmission rate relationship is known from previous studies. Even in essentially homogeneous structures, variations in morphology (as indicated, for example, by density) and thermal history may influence permeability.