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OX-TRAN Model 2/12 R Operator's Manual
Chapter 3: Preparing for a Test
This chapter provides information on how to prepare for a permeation test.
Read this chapter to learn about:
Testing Basics
•
•
How Barrier Properties Affect Testing
•
Developing Test Methods for Films and Packages
•
Developing a Temperature Profile
Testing Basics
A permeation test is comprised of a series of discrete actions or events. Some of these steps require human
thought, action or intervention. Some of the steps are performed by the instrument and will be discussed
elsewhere. The most important part of the process is the planning and preparation that occurs before the
actual testing begins. Inadequate planning or preparation may result in an inaccurate measurement. This
chapter contains information on the factors that should be considered when planning for a permeation test.
How Barrier Properties Affect Testing
A good understanding of the barrier material properties for the samples to be tested is very helpful when
preparing for a permeation test. The transmission rate of the sample and the conditions at which it will be
tested may require changes to the test methodology.
Any sample with a transmission rate within the range of the instrument (as specified in Chapter 10) can be
tested. Additional consideration is advised when setting up tests for samples that have a transmission rate
within 25% of the upper or lower end of the instruments test range. A Good Barrier is generally considered
any material with a transmission rate less than 10 cc / (m
generally considered any material with a transmission rate greater than 100 cc / (m
day) when using a 100% oxygen test gas.
Testing Good Barriers
When testing Good Barrier film samples use as large a sample as possible, masking is not normally
advised. Longer Cell Examination and ReZero Examination times may be required. An Individual Zero test
phase may improve measurement accuracy when testing Good Barriers.
Testing Poor Barriers
Use caution when testing Poor Barriers an excessively high transmission rate may over-range the oxygen
sensor. Persistent or repeated over-range conditions will shorten the lifespan of the Oxygen sensor.
Common poor barrier materials include polyethylene, polycarbonate and acrylic.
The possibility of an over-range condition can be reduced by; lowering the oxygen concentration of the Test
Gas, using a mask to reduce the sample area when testing film samples or increasing the Carrier Gas flow
rate. Using any or all of these methods to reduce the amount of oxygen the Oxygen Sensor is exposed to
will also increase the life of the sensor.
MOCON, Inc.
• day) or 0.05 cc / (pkg • day). A Poor Barrier is
2
Revision L
Preparing for a Test
2
• day) or 0.5 cc / (pkg •
3-1
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