Testing Service

Our Permeability Laboratory has almost certainly already tested a sample similar to yours before - no matter what you application or how simple or complex the sample, component, enclosure or unit to be measured is.

While we naturally maintain strict confidentiality regarding each customer sample, our experience passed down over 30 years equips us to choose the right technique to quickly and accurately measure permeability of new samples

Most samples, packaging and coatings are supplied as flat samples, which can be quickly and easily measured with minimal sample preparation. For many food, pharmaceutical, and other applications, however, the testing of complete containers provides a greater certainty that the total packaging solution is effective.

Some samples are neither flat nor closed containers, but we have solutions for measuring permeability on these too, often these include special testing rigs.

Our testing service is fast, efficient and, above all accurate. Before sending samples, please call us to discuss your application. We can usually provide an immediate quotation over the telephone, by email or by post . Sometimes we will need to look at the sample to make an assessment of the most appropriate technique.

Some of the many sample types we can test in our permeability testing laboratory

Adhesives	Fuel Cells	Paper
Aerospace	Gravimetric	Packaging
Automotive	ISO15105	Pharmaceutical
Blister Packs	Laboratory	Plastics and Rubber
Building Materials	Leaks and Seals	Quality Control
Business waste	MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging)	Sachets an Powders
Edible films	Marine	Solvents
Electronics	Mastics and Adhesives	Textiles
Films	Medical	Vapour Permeability
Freezer Burn	O Rings

Permeability is a measure of the rate at which a vapour (often water vapour, but we can test against virtually any gas) can flow through a material. Different techniques can give widely varying results so it is crucial that any testing facility fully understands the science and the specific application.

Vapour permeability sensors

Carbon Dioxide	Hydrocarbons	Photoionization
Catalytic Combustion	Hydrogen	Pressure Measurements
Coulometric	Infrared	Semiconductor
Electrochemical	Oxygen	Thermal Conductivity
Flame Ionization	Mass Spectrometer	Water Vapour
Gas Chromatography	Nitrogen	ZrO2
Helium	Paramagnetic

We are currently unable to use radioactive or highly toxic gases. However, please call to discuss your application.

Vapour permeability is the critical characteristic in many applications as it affects not just the flow and distribution of vapour, but also the material or components physical characteristics - including strength, handling, printinability and durability.

Most foods and pharmaceuticals require packaging that controls the flow of vapour (i.e. permeability) to achieve a desired quality, safety and shelf life. In clothing it determines breathability and greatly affects the comfort of the wearer, especially during outdoor activity. The building, automotive, aerospace, marine and electronics, amongst many others, all demand accurate the use of materials with precisely controlled vapour permeability.

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