Permeability of Coated Paper Packaging Materials
Smithers packaging experts explore the challenges around switching to paper-based packaging materials and how you can validate the performance of new sustainable packaging designs.
Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) are key material properties that can influence the shelf life and performance of food and other packaged products.
Smithers offers a comprehensive range of barrier testing services for packaging materials and finished packs. We also operate an inter-laboratory proficiency scheme supporting consistent and reliable permeability measurement.
ASTM F-1249 and BS 3177.
Smithers also offers a pre-test integrity assessment on packs using a high sensitivity gas leak detection system and pre-conditioning of films by controlled flexing to ASTM F392, utilising a standard Gelbo flextester.
The Mocon coated paper test cells (shown above) seal the edges of the sample, preventing the edge diffusion effect, ensuring measurement accuracy. Alternatively, a double foil mask can be used to prevent moisture ingress.
Get in touch with our experts to discuss permeability testing for coated paper, paperboard and other packaging materials, or to understand how barrier performance can be evaluated during material development and validation.
Smithers offers a comprehensive range of barrier testing services for packaging materials and finished packs. We also operate an inter-laboratory proficiency scheme supporting consistent and reliable permeability measurement.
Laboratory permeability testing
Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) testing of films and packs is conducted using specialist MOCON OX-TRAN 2/22 and Labthink C230M equipment, providing precise and reliable results.
WVTR testing is performed using state-of-the-art MOCON AQUATRAN-W 3/34, PERMATRAN-W 3/33 and Labthink 390H apparatus. Samples are mounted in controlled RH cells, allowing water vapour to pass through films or packs, with the transmitted moisture measured to give accurate barrier performance data.
Testing can support material comparison, packaging development, specification verification and investigation of barrier performance issues.
Standards and accreditation
Oxygen permeability testing is carried out in accordance with ASTM D-3985, ASTM F-1927 and ASTM F-1307, DIN 53380-3 or JIS K 7126.- Water vapour permeability rates can be determined according to ASTM F1249, BS 7406 method A, ISO 9932 or TAPPI T557.
- Additional WVTR standards based on pack or dish methods include USP <671>, ASTM E96, BS 2782:820A, BS 3177, DIN 53122 and JIS Z 0208.
ASTM F-1249 and BS 3177.
Smithers also offers a pre-test integrity assessment on packs using a high sensitivity gas leak detection system and pre-conditioning of films by controlled flexing to ASTM F392, utilising a standard Gelbo flextester.
Permeability testing for coated paper and paperboard
At Smithers, we have the expertise and specialised test equipment to accurately determine the moisture barrier of paperboard – providing you with the confidence that your coated paper products meet their specified barrier performance.
The inherent porosity of paper structures can present challenges in permeability testing. Test gases can penetrate the paper structure and escape through the edges in addition to permeating through the barrier coating. This phenomenon, known as edge diffusion, can alter the driving force and result in inaccurate data.
The Mocon coated paper test cells (shown above) seal the edges of the sample, preventing the edge diffusion effect, ensuring measurement accuracy. Alternatively, a double foil mask can be used to prevent moisture ingress.
Get in touch with our experts to discuss permeability testing for coated paper, paperboard and other packaging materials, or to understand how barrier performance can be evaluated during material development and validation.
