ISO 15106-2 - Plastics - Film and Sheeting - Determination of Water Vapour Transmission Rate - Part 2: Infrared Detection Sensor Method

ISO 15106-2

Plastics - Film and Sheeting - Determination of Water Vapour Transmission Rate - Part 2: Infrared Detection Sensor Method

ISO 15106-2:2003 specifies an instrumental method for determining the water vapour transmission rate of plastic film, plastic sheeting and multi-layer structures including plastics, using an infrared detection sensor.

What is ISO 15106-2?

ISO 15106-2 is an international standard that specifies a method for determining the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of films, coatings, and materials that are used in packaging. This standard focuses on the permeability of materials to water vapor, which is a critical property for ensuring product shelf life and maintaining the integrity of goods, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries. ISO 15106-2 is part of the broader ISO 15106 series, which outlines methods for measuring the permeability of flexible barrier materials to gases and vapors, providing manufacturers with guidelines for ensuring the protective performance of packaging materials.

Test Standard for Determination of Water Vapour Transmission Rate

The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) refers to the amount of water vapor that passes through a material over a specific period under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. The determination of WVTR is crucial for industries where moisture-sensitive products are involved. ISO 15106-2 uses a specific method known as the "isostatic humidity sensing method" for determining this rate. The method employs a device that uses sensors to measure the change in humidity over time as water vapor permeates the test material. By measuring the rate at which moisture passes through the barrier, manufacturers can assess the material's suitability for packaging applications.

ISO 15106-2 Test Process

The test process outlined in ISO 15106-2 typically involves the following steps:

• Sample Preparation: A flat, uniform specimen of the material to be tested is prepared. The test sample should be free from wrinkles or defects to ensure accurate measurement.
• Isostatic Test Chamber: The sample is placed in a test chamber where it separates two chambers with different relative humidity levels. One side of the material is exposed to a high humidity environment, while the other side is kept at a low humidity level. The controlled conditions simulate the real-world environments in which the packaging material may be used.
• Humidity Measurement: Sensors are placed in the chamber to detect changes in humidity over time. As water vapor permeates through the material, the sensors measure the rate of vapor transfer. This process continues until a steady-state transmission is observed.
• Data Calculation: The water vapor transmission rate is then calculated based on the measured humidity levels, the test chamber conditions, and the surface area of the test material. The result is usually expressed in grams of water vapor per square meter per day (g/m²/day).

ISO 15106-2 offers a reliable, standardized method for evaluating the moisture barrier properties of materials, helping manufacturers make informed choices regarding packaging materials that protect sensitive products from moisture.