ISO/FDIS 2528
(Main)Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
General Information
- Abstract
ISO 2528:2017 specifies a method for the determination of the water vapour transmission rate (often erroneously called "permeability") of sheet materials. This method is not generally recommended for use if the transmission rate is expected to be less than 1 g/m2 per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In such cases the method specified in ISO 9932 is preferred. The method cannot be applied to film materials that are damaged by hot wax or that shrink to an appreciable extent under the test conditions used. For some purposes it may be necessary to determine the transmission rate of creased material; a procedure for this is given in Annex A.
- Status
- Not Published
- Technical Committee
- ISO/TC 6/SC 2 - Test methods and quality specifications for paper and board
- Current Stage
- 5020 - FDIS ballot initiated: 2 months. Proof sent to secretariat
- Start Date
- 14-Aug-2026
- Completion Date
- 14-Aug-2026
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ISO/FDIS 2528 - Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
REDLINE ISO/FDIS 2528 - Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
ISO/FDIS 2528 - Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la capsule) par gravimétrie
Overview
ISO/FDIS 2528:2026 specifies the gravimetric (dish) method for determining the water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) of sheet materials. This international standard, developed by ISO Technical Committee 6 (Paper, board, and pulps), provides guidance on measuring the mass of water vapour transmitted through sheet materials under controlled conditions. The method aims to deliver reliable and reproducible WVTR measurements vital for applications such as packaging and protective coatings. However, it is not generally recommended for use if the transmission rate is less than 1 g/m² per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In those cases, ISO 9932 should be used.
This gravimetric method is suitable for a wide range of materials, including paper, board, plastic films, metal foils, and coated fabrics, provided the material is flat and thin enough for accurate measurement. The standard also details procedures for creased materials and discusses special considerations for materials sensitive to hot wax.
Key Topics
WVTR Definition: WVTR refers to the mass of water vapour that passes through a unit area of material per unit time, usually expressed in grams per square metre per day [g/(m²·d)].
Test Apparatus: Utilizes aluminium or stainless steel test dishes, optionally sealed with wax or mechanical means (screw-sealed or threaded flanged designs), and a sensitive balance for mass determination.
Controlled Conditions: Testing is performed in climate-controlled enclosures, maintaining specific temperature and relative humidity for reproducible results.
Sampling and Conditioning: Test pieces should be representative of the material batch and conditioned per relevant ISO standards (e.g., ISO 187, ISO 291) to ensure consistent results.
Testing Limitations: Not recommended for materials with low transmission rates, significant thickness, or those that shrink or are damaged under test conditions.
Creased Sheet Testing: Includes procedures and calculations for determining the WVTR of creased materials, recognizing practical packaging scenarios.
Result Expression and Reporting: Results are reported as the arithmetic mean of at least three measurements, rounded as per standard guidelines, and accompanied by a detailed test report.
Applications
Packaging Industry: Essential for quality control of packaging materials such as food packaging, where barrier properties against moisture are critical for product shelf life.
Coated Fabrics and Laminates: Used to assess and compare the effectiveness of barrier coatings on textiles, papers, and multilayer laminates intended for industrial or consumer applications.
Product Development: Facilitates research and development of new materials with enhanced moisture barrier properties, aiding in performance benchmarking according to international standards.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensures materials meet national and international specifications for moisture resistance, contributing to product safety and durability.
Quality Assurance: Acts as a reference method for material certification and troubleshooting production or supply chain issues related to moisture ingress.
Related Standards
ISO 9932: Preferred when WVTR is expected to be lower than 1 g/m² per day or materials are thicker than 3 mm, offering greater sensitivity for low-permeability products.
ISO 186: Outlines procedures for sampling of paper and board to ensure average quality.
ISO 187: Specifies standard atmospheres and procedures for conditioning paper, board, and pulps prior to testing.
ISO 291 & ISO 2231: Define standard atmospheres for plastics, rubber-coated, or plastics-coated fabrics during testing or conditioning.
ISO 23529: General procedures for preparing and conditioning test pieces for rubber test methods.
By conforming to ISO/FDIS 2528:2026, manufacturers and laboratories ensure their moisture barrier materials are accurately evaluated, facilitating international trade and supporting industry best practices in moisture control for sheet materials.
Relations
- Effective Date
- 18-Nov-2023
Buy Documents
ISO/FDIS 2528 - Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
REDLINE ISO/FDIS 2528 - Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
ISO/FDIS 2528 - Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la capsule) par gravimétrie
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Frequently Asked Questions
ISO/FDIS 2528 is a draft published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Its full title is "Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method". This standard covers: ISO 2528:2017 specifies a method for the determination of the water vapour transmission rate (often erroneously called "permeability") of sheet materials. This method is not generally recommended for use if the transmission rate is expected to be less than 1 g/m2 per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In such cases the method specified in ISO 9932 is preferred. The method cannot be applied to film materials that are damaged by hot wax or that shrink to an appreciable extent under the test conditions used. For some purposes it may be necessary to determine the transmission rate of creased material; a procedure for this is given in Annex A.
ISO 2528:2017 specifies a method for the determination of the water vapour transmission rate (often erroneously called "permeability") of sheet materials. This method is not generally recommended for use if the transmission rate is expected to be less than 1 g/m2 per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In such cases the method specified in ISO 9932 is preferred. The method cannot be applied to film materials that are damaged by hot wax or that shrink to an appreciable extent under the test conditions used. For some purposes it may be necessary to determine the transmission rate of creased material; a procedure for this is given in Annex A.
ISO/FDIS 2528 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 85.060 - Paper and board. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ISO/FDIS 2528 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ISO 2528:2017. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ISO/FDIS 2528 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
FINAL DRAFT
International
Standard
ISO/TC 6/SC 2
Sheet materials — Determination
Secretariat: SIS
of water vapour transmission rate
Voting begins on:
(WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish)
2026-08-14
method
Voting terminates on:
2026-10-09
Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de
transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la capsule) par
gravimétrie
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT,
WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY
RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE
AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING DOCUMENTATION.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO
LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES, DRAFT
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE
TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL
TO BECOME STAN DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE
MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
Reference number
FINAL DRAFT
International
Standard
ISO/TC 6/SC 2
Sheet materials — Determination
Secretariat: SIS
of water vapour transmission rate
Voting begins on:
(WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish)
method
Voting terminates on:
Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de
transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la capsule) par
gravimétrie
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT,
WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY
RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE
AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING DOCUMENTATION.
© ISO 2026
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO
LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES, DRAFT
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
TO BECOME STAN DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE
MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland Reference number
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Apparatus and material . 2
6 Sampling . 4
7 Conditioning . 4
8 Preparation of test pieces . 4
9 Preparation of test dishes . 5
10 Procedure . 5
10.1 General method .5
10.2 Creased sheet .7
11 Expression of results . 7
12 Precision . 7
13 Test report . 8
Annex A (normative) Wax-sealed test dishes – Description and preparation . 9
Annex B (normative) Method for preparation and determination of water vapour transmission
rate of creased materials . 14
Annex C (normative) Test conditions . 17
Annex D (informative) Precision data .18
Bibliography .20
iii
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee
has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations,
governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely
with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types
of ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent
rights in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received notice of (a)
patent(s) which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that
this may not represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 6 Paper, board and pulps, Subcommittee SC 2,
Test methods and quality specifications for paper and board.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (ISO 2528:2017) which has been technically
revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— mechanically-sealed test dishes have been shown to be as satisfactory as wax-sealed test dishes and are
included in the material that can be used for the determination of water-vapour transmission rate;
— wax-sealed test dishes are moved Annex A;
— weighing method has been modified;
— preparation of test pieces and test dishes with mechanically-sealed upper parts have been added;
— in Annex B, the creasing method was modified and the calculation of the WVTR of the creases was
generalized;
— precision data have been added in Annex D.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
iv
Introduction
This document describes a method which can in theory be applied to any sheet material. In practice its main
use is for flat, usually thin, materials that can be processed to form a water vapour-resistant barrier, as used
in packaging, such as paper, board, plastics films or laminates of paper with films or metal foils, and for
fabrics coated with rubber or plastics.
This test is intended to give reliable values of the water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) by means of simple
apparatus. The use of the results of any particular application should, however, be based upon experience.
Transmission rate is not a linear function of temperature, nor generally of relative humidity difference. A
determination carried out under certain conditions of temperature and relative humidity is not, therefore,
necessarily comparable with one carried out under other conditions. The conditions of test should, therefore,
be chosen to be as close as possible to the conditions of use.
v
FINAL DRAFT International Standard ISO/FDIS 2528:2026(en)
Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour
transmission rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
1 Scope
This document specifies a method for determining the water vapour transmission rate (often erroneously
called “permeability”) of sheet materials. This method is generally not applicable for use if the transmission
rate is expected to be less than 1 g/m per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In such cases, the method
[2]
specified in ISO 9932 can be applied .
This document is not applicable to materials that change dimensionally (shrink or expand) to an appreciable
extent under the test conditions used.
For materials that are damaged by hot wax, only mechanically-sealed test dishes can be used.
For cases where determination of the transmission rate of creased material is needed, a procedure is
specified in Annex B.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 186, Paper and board — Sampling to determine average quality
ISO 187, Paper, board and pulps — Standard atmosphere for conditioning and testing and procedure for
monitoring the atmosphere and conditioning of samples
ISO 209, Wrought aluminium and aluminium alloys — Chemical composition
ISO 291, Plastics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
ISO 2231, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
ISO 23529, Rubber — General procedures for preparing and conditioning test pieces for physical test methods
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
water vapour transmission rate
WVTR
mass of water vapour transmitted through a unit area in a unit time under specified conditions of
temperature and humidity
Note 1 to entry: Expressed in grams per square metre per day [g/(m .d)].
Note 2 to entry: The WVTR depends upon the thickness, composition, homogeneity and permeability of the constituent
material(s), and upon the conditions of temperature and relative humidity under which the test is carried out (see
Annex C). Water vapour permeability is an intrinsic characteristic of a material expressed in g.µm/(m .d.Pa) and is
thickness and pressure independent.
3.2
transmission rate of creased sheet
rate of transmission, measured on a test piece cut after the sheet has been creased in a standardized manner
and after the sheet has been restored to the flat condition
Note 1 to entry: The transmission rate of creased sheet is expressed in grams per square metre per day [g/(m .d)]
3.3
transmission rate of creases
difference between the transmission rate of the creased sheet and the transmission rate of the uncreased
sheet, both given in grams per square metre per day normalized to one linear metre of creases
Note 1 to entry: The transmission rate of creases is expressed in grams per linear metre (of creases) per day [g/(m.d)].
4 Principle
Test dishes containing a desiccant and closed by the material to be tested are placed in a controlled
atmosphere (see Annex C).
These test dishes are weighed at suitable intervals of time and the WVTR is determined from the increase in
mass when this increase has become proportional to the time interval.
5 Apparatus and material
Figure 1 shows examples of equipment which have proved satisfactory in use, but other equipment may be
equally satisfactory. The following lists applicable laboratory apparatus and materials.
5.1 Test dishes, of aluminium or stainless steel and of as large a diameter as can be accommodated
on the balance to be used. The test dishes should be light but rigid and resistant to corrosion under the
test conditions. Test dishes made from aluminium, grade Al 99,5 as specified in ISO 209 and protected by
chemical or anodic oxidation have been found suitable.
The internal depth of the test dish below the plane of the test piece should not be less than 15 mm (deep test
dish) or 8 mm (shallow test dish) and there shall be no obstruction within the test dish that might interfere
with the flow of water vapour between the test piece and the desiccant. The surface area of the bottom of
the test dish where it is filled with desiccant shall be the same as that of the exposed surface of the test piece.
The construction of the test dish and sealing method shall be such that the area of the test piece exposed to the
atmosphere is equal to the area corresponding to the inner diameter of the dish. This area shall be between
2 2
25 cm and 50 cm which corresponds to diameters between 56,4 mm ± 0,4 mm and 79,8 mm ± 0,4 mm
Test dishes may be sealed with wax or mechanically sealed.
Test dishes using wax, as well as their preparation shall be in accordance with Annex A.
Two types of mechanically sealed test dishes may be used: screw-sealed test dishes and threaded top test
dishes.
In the case of screw-sealed test dish, each test dish has a groove around the rim for sealing the test piece
with rubber gasket and metal flanged ring. This groove has a profile such that the test piece can be sealed
with screws (see Figure 1a) over the opening of the test dish and no water vapour can enter or escape the
test dish through the edges of the test piece. The internal diameter of the test dish shall be equal to the
diameter of the rubber gasket (5.2) and metal flanged ring (5.3).
Threaded top test dish consists of a lightweight aluminium cup and an aluminium threaded flanged ring with
two neoprene gaskets (5.4) and a PTFE ring (5.5) that hold the specimen in place. (Figure 1b). Specimens
are loaded and sealed in place by twisting the threaded upper aluminium flange (5.6) in place. The internal
diameter of the test dish shall be equal to the diameter of the neoprene gaskets (5.4), PTFE ring (5.5) and
aluminium threaded flanged ring (5.6).
a) screw-sealed
b) threaded-flange sealed
Key
1 inner diameter
2 screw
3 rubber gasket
4 test dish
5 test piece
6 metal flanged ring
7 neoprene gaskets
8 aluminium threaded flanged ring
9 PTFE ring
Figure 1 — Examples of mechanically-sealed test dishes
5.2 Rubber gasket of diameter corresponding to the internal diameter of the screw-sealed test dish (see
Figure 1) that will be placed onto the test piece. The rubber gasket shall be changed as often as needed to
provide sufficient tightness.
5.3 Metal flanged ring with internal and external diameters designed to seal the test dish to prevent
water vapour leakage (see Figure 1a).
5.4 Two neoprene gaskets of diameter corresponding to the internal diameter of the cup of the threaded-
flanged test dish such that the test piece is sandwiched between them when placed inside the cup (see
Figure 1b).
5.5 PTFE ring of diameter such that it can be placed on top of the neoprene gasket to prevent rotation of
the test piece when the threaded upper aluminium flange (5.6) is screwed into the cup to seal the test dish
(see Figure 1b).
5.6 Aluminium threaded flanged ring with internal and external diameters designed to seal the test
dish to prevent water vapour leakage (see Figure 1b).
5.7 Cutting template or test-piece cutter, of a size suitable for cutting circular test pieces of a diameter
suitable for the test dishes in use (see Figure 1). This diameter is slightly less than the inside diameter of the
top of the test dish and larger than the inside diameter of the bottom of the test dish (see Figure 1).
The diameter of the test piece should be as large as possible without creating undulations or folds when the
upper part of the test dish is screwed in.
5.8 Desiccant, silica gel or anhydrous calcium chloride (CaCl ), in the form of granules 1 mm to 6 mm in
size or alternatively in the form of a friable flaked product 1,5 mm to 2,0 mm in size.
NOTE The limiting saturation of 1 g of calcium chloride is 0,1 g of water. The limiting saturation of 1 g of silica gel
is 0,04 g of water.
NOTE Silica gel can lose absorption efficiency when re-heated several times.
5.9 Balance, for determining the mass of each test dish, lid and contents to 0,1 mg.
5.10 Gloves, for the manipulation of the test dishes.
5.11 Enclosure (climate room or climate chamber), in which the required controlled atmosphere can be
set (see Annex C) and with air continuously circulated. The control shall be such that the specified conditions
are re-established not more than 15 min after the door of the enclosure has been closed.
6 Sampling
Make sure that the test pieces are from a representative sample of the materials to be evaluated. If the tests
are being made to evaluate a lot of paper or board, the sample shall be selected in accordance with ISO 186.
7 Conditioning
It is recommended that samples be conditioned in accordance with ISO 187, ISO 291, ISO 23529 or ISO 2231
depending on the material, prior to preparation of the test pieces, especially if the WVTR is known to be
high.
8 Preparation of test pieces
Avoiding all damaged areas, cut from the sample, with the aid of the cutting template or test piece cutter
(5.7), at least three circular test pieces of the appropriate diameter, for each side to be tested. Mark the test
pieces in some way so that the side to be exposed to the test atmosphere can be readily identified.
If the material is hygroscopic or if a greater accuracy is required, prepare at least one additional test piece
for blank measurements.
If the sheet material has been prepared by a process involving solvents, the result can be affected by the
residual solvent in the test pieces. If the test pieces are treated to remove the residual solvent, details of this
treatment shall be included in the test report.
9 Preparation of test dishes
Each test dish shall be assigned a different number.
Always begin by carefully cleaning and drying the test dishes and the templates.
Weigh the empty test dishes.
Fill each test dish with desiccant up to 3 mm to 5 mm below the final position of the test piece and level by
tapping.
It is important that the desiccant does not come into direct contact with the test piece. A gap of more than
3 mm between the test piece and the desiccant should be used. It is also important that there is not too much
distance between the test piece and the desiccant in the case a deeper test dish is used.
Weigh again the test dish with the desiccant and calculate the amount of desiccant in g by difference of
weight.
For screw-sealed test dish:
— Place the test piece (Clause 8) in central position, followed by the rubber gasket, then the metal flanged
ring.
— Seal the test dish by tightening the screws into the metal flanged ring (5.3). To ensure even clamping,
tighten the screws in a diagonal sequence. Make sure that moderate force is used to screw the test dish in
order to prevent damage. The test piece should be flat and free of undulation or folds that would prevent
a good seal.
For threaded top test dish:
— Place one neoprene gasket (5.4) inside the cup so that it rests flat on the ledge created by the smaller
diameter of the bottom part of the test dish.
— Place the test piece (Clause 8) in central position, followed by the other neoprene gasket (5.4), then the
PTFE ring (5.5).
— Seal the test dish by screwing the aluminium threaded flanged ring (5.6) into the cup. The test piece
should be flat and free of undulation or folds that would prevent a good seal. Make sure that moderate
force is used to screw the test dish in order to prevent damage.
10 Procedure
10.1 General method
10.1.1 Weigh all the prepared test dishes, on the balance (5.9) to the nearest 0,1 mg.
10.1.2 Place them upright in the enclosure (5.11) set to the conditions of the test. Samples are usually tested
in the temperature and humidity applied for standard conditioning according to ISO 187 but may be set to
specific conditions (see Annex C).
10.1.3 Weigh the test dishes, at suitable, regular intervals of time.
Weighing in a laboratory with controlled temperature and humidity (ISO 187) is recommended.
Weighing shall be carried out as follows:
— Remove the test dishes from the controlled enclosure using the gloves (5.10) and weigh the assemblies
to the nearest 0,1 mg and return them to the enclosure.
— Take care in moving the test dishes to avoid contact of the desiccant with the test pieces. If there is
contact, the result shall be discarded and the test shall be repeated.
— Take care to work rapidly, taking the test dishes in small groups always containing the same number, so
that the whol
...
ISO/TC 6/SC 2
Secretariat: SIS
Date: 206-05-132026-07-31
Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate
(WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la
capsule) par gravimétrie
FDIS stage
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication
may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO
at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: + 41 22 749 01 11
EmailE-mail: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.orgwww.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
ii
Contents
Foreword . v
Introduction . vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Apparatus and material . 2
6 Sampling . 5
7 Conditioning . 5
8 Preparation of test pieces . 5
9 Preparation of test dishes . 5
10 Procedure . 6
10.1 General method . 6
10.2 Creased sheet . 8
11 Expression of results . 8
12 Precision . 9
13 Test report . 9
Annex A (normative) Wax-sealed test dishes – Description and preparation . 11
Annex B (normative) Method for preparation and determination of water vapour transmission
rate of creased materials . 17
Annex C (normative) Test conditions . 20
Annex D (informative) Precision data . 22
Bibliography . 24
Foreword . iv
Introduction . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 2
5 Apparatus and material . 2
6 Sampling . 4
7 Conditioning . 4
8 Preparation of test pieces . 4
9 Preparation of test dishes . 4
10 Procedure . 5
10.1 General method . 5
iii
10.2 Creased sheet . 7
11 Expression of results . 7
12 Precision . 8
13 Test report . 8
Annex A (normative) Wax-sealed test dishes – Description and preparation . 9
Annex B (normative) Method for preparation and determination of water vapour transmission
rate of creased materials . 14
Annex C (normative) Test conditions . 17
Annex D (informative) Precision data . 18
Bibliography . 20
iv © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
iv
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types of
ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights
in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received notice of (a) patent(s)
which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not
represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
www.iso.org/patents.www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such
patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.htmlwww.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 6 Paper, board and pulps, Subcommittee SC 2,
Test methods and quality specifications for paper and board.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (ISO 2528:2017) which has been technically revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— — mechanically-sealed test dishes have been shown to be as satisfactory as wax-sealed test dishes and
are included in the material that can be used for the determination of water-vapour transmission rate;
— — wax-sealed test dishes are moved Annex A;Annex A;
— — weighing method has been modified;
— — preparation of test pieces and test dishes with mechanically-sealed upper parts have been added;
— — in Annex B,0, the creasing method was modified and the calculation of the WVTR of the creases was
generalized;
— — precision data have been added in Annex D.Annex D.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.htmlwww.iso.org/members.html.
v
Introduction
This document describes a method which can in theory be applied to any sheet material. In practice its main
use is for flat, usually thin, materials that can be processed to form a water vapour-resistant barrier, as used
in packaging, such as paper, board, plastics films or laminates of paper with films or metal foils, and for fabrics
coated with rubber or plastics.
This test is intended to give reliable values of the water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) by means of simple
apparatus. The use of the results of any particular application should, however, be based upon experience.
Transmission rate is not a linear function of temperature, nor generally of relative humidity difference. A
determination carried out under certain conditions of temperature and relative humidity is not, therefore,
necessarily comparable with one carried out under other conditions. The conditions of test should, therefore,
be chosen to be as close as possible to the conditions of use.
vi © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
vi
DRAFT International Standard ISO/FDIS 2528:2026
Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission rate
(WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
1 Scope
This document specifies a method for determining the water vapour transmission rate (often erroneously
called “permeability”) of sheet materials. This method is not generally recommendednot applicable for use if
the transmission rate is expected to be less than 1 g/m per day or for materials thicker than 3 mm. In such
[2]
cases, the method specified in ISO 9932 can be applied .[2].
This document is not applicable to materials that change dimensionally (shrink or expand) to an appreciable
extent under the test conditions used.
For materials that are damaged by hot wax, only mechanically-sealed test dishes can be used.
For cases where determination of the transmission rate of creased material is needed, a procedure is specified
in Annex B.0.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 186, Paper and board — Sampling to determine average quality
ISO 187, Paper, board and pulps — Standard atmosphere for conditioning and testing and procedure for
monitoring the atmosphere and conditioning of samples
ISO 209, Wrought aluminium and aluminium alloys — Chemical composition
ISO 291, Plastics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
ISO 2231, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
ISO 23529, Rubber — General procedures for preparing and conditioning test pieces for physical test methods
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— — ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obphttps://www.iso.org/obp
— — IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1 3.1
water vapour transmission rate
WVTR
mass of water vapour transmitted through a unit area in a unit time under specified conditions of temperature
and humidity
Note 1 to entry: Expressed in grams per square metre per day [g/(m .d)].
Note 2 to entry: The WVTR depends upon the thickness, composition, homogeneity and permeability of the constituent
material(s), and upon the conditions of temperature and relative humidity under which the test is carried out (see
Annex C).Annex C). Water vapour permeability is an intrinsic characteristic of a material expressed in g.µm/(m .d.Pa)
and is thickness and pressure independent.
3.2 3.2
transmission rate of creased sheet
rate of transmission, measured on a test piece cut after the sheet has been creased in a standardized manner
and after the sheet has been restored to the flat condition
Note 1 to entry: The transmission rate of creased sheet is expressed in grams per square metre per day [g/(m .d)]
3.3 3.3
transmission rate of creases
difference between the transmission rate of the creased sheet and the transmission rate of the uncreased
sheet, both given in grams per square metre per day normalized to one linear metre of creases
Note 1 to entry: The transmission rate of creases is expressed in grams per linear metre (of creases) per day [g/(m.d)].
4 Principle
Test dishes containing a desiccant and closed by the material to be tested are placed in a controlled
atmosphere (see Annex C).Annex C).
These test dishes are weighed at suitable intervals of time and the WVTR is determined from the increase in
mass when this increase has become proportional to the time interval.
5 Apparatus and material
Figure 1Figure 1 shows examples of equipment which have proved satisfactory in use, but other equipment
may be equally satisfactory. The following lists applicable laboratory apparatus and materials.
5.1 5.1 Test dishes, of aluminium or stainless steel and of as large a diameter as can be
accommodated on the balance to be used. The test dishes should be light but rigid and resistant to corrosion
under the test conditions. Test dishes made from aluminium, grade Al 99,5 as specified in ISO 209 and
protected by chemical or anodic oxidation have been found suitable.
The internal depth of the test dish below the plane of the test piece should not be less than 15 mm (deep test
dish) or 8 mm (shallow test dish) and there shall be no obstruction within the test dish that might interfere
with the flow of water vapour between the test piece and the desiccant. The surface area of the bottom of the
test dish where it is filled with desiccant shall be the same as that of the exposed surface of the test piece.
The construction of the test dish and sealing method shall be such that the area of the test piece exposed to
the atmosphere is equal to the area corresponding to the inner diameter of the dish. This area shall be between
2 2
25 cm and 50 cm which corresponds to diameters between 56,4mm ± 4 mm ± 0,4 mm and 79,8 mm
± ± 0,4 mm
Test dishes may be sealed with wax or mechanically sealed.
2 © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
Test dishes using wax, as well as their preparation shall be in accordance with Annex A.Annex A.
Two types of mechanically sealed test dishes may be used: screw-sealed test dishes and threaded top test
dishes.
In the case of screw-sealed test dish, each test dish has a groove around the rim for sealing the test piece with
rubber gasket and metal flanged ring. This groove has a profile such that the test piece can be sealed with
screws (see Figure 1a)Figure 1 ) over the opening of the test dish and no water vapour can enter or escape the
test dish through the edges of the test piece. The internal diameter of the test dish shall be equal to the
diameter of the rubber gasket (5.2)(5.2) and metal flanged ring (5.3).(5.3).
Threaded top test dish consists of a lightweight aluminium cup and an aluminium threaded flanged ring with
two neoprene gaskets (5.4)(5.4) and a PTFE ring (5.5)(5.5) that hold the specimen in place.
(Figure 1b).(Figure 1 ). Specimens are loaded and sealed in place by twisting the threaded upper aluminium
flange (5.6)(5.6) in place. The internal diameter of the test dish shall be equal to the diameter of the neoprene
gaskets (5.4),(5.4), PTFE ring (5.5)(5.5) and aluminium threaded flanged ring (5.6).(5.6).
a) screw-sealed
b) threaded-flange sealed
Key
1 inner diameter
2 screw
3 rubber gasket
4 test dish
5 test piece
6 metal flanged ring
7 neoprene gaskets
8 aluminium threaded flangesflanged ring
9 PTFE ring
Figure 1 — Examples of mechanically-sealed test dishes
5.2 5.2 Rubber gasket of diameter corresponding to the internal diameter of the screw-sealed test
dish (see Figure 1)Figure 1 ) that will be placed onto the test piece. The rubber gasket shall be changed as
often as needed to provide sufficient tightness.
5.3 5.3 Metal flanged ring with internal and external diameters designed to seal the test dish to
prevent water vapour leakage (see Figure 1a).Figure 1 ).
5.4 5.4 Two neoprene gaskets of diameter corresponding to the internal diameter of the cup of the
threaded-flanged test dish such that the test piece is sandwiched between them when placed inside the cup
(see Figure 1b).Figure 1 ).
5.5 5.5 PTFE ring of diameter such that it can be placed on top of the neoprene gasket to prevent
rotation of the test piece when the threaded upper aluminium flange (5.6)(5.6) is screwed into the cup to
seal the test dish (see Figure 1b).Figure 1 ).
4 © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
5.6 5.6 AuminiumAluminium threaded flanged ring with internal and external diameters
designed to seal the test dish to prevent water vapour leakage (see Figure 1b).Figure 1 ).
5.7 5.7 Cutting template or test-piece cutter, of a size suitable for cutting circular test pieces of
a diameter suitable for the test dishes in use (see Figure 1).Figure 1 ). This diameter is slightly less than the
inside diameter of the top of the test dish and larger than the inside diameter of the bottom of the test dish
(see Figure 1).Figure 1 ).
The diameter of the test piece should be as large as possible without creating undulations or folds when the
upper part of the test dish is screwed in.
5.8 5.8 Desiccant, silica gel or anhydrous calcium chloride (CaCl ), in the form of granules 1 mm to
6 mm in size or alternatively in the form of a friable flaked product 1,5 mm to 2,0 mm in size.
NOTE The limiting saturation of 1 g of calcium chloride is 0,1 g of water. The limiting saturation of 1 g of silica gel is
0,04 g of water.
NOTE: Silica gel can lose absorption efficiency when re-heated several times.
5.9 5.9 Balance, for determining the mass of each test dish, lid and contents to 0,1 mg.
5.10 5.10 Gloves, for the manipulation of the test dishes.
5.11 5.11 Enclosure (climate room or climate chamber), in which the required controlled
atmosphere can be set (see Annex C)Annex C) and with air continuously circulated. The control shall be such
that the specified conditions are re-established not more than 15 min after the door of the enclosure has been
closed.
6 Sampling
Make sure that the test pieces are from a representative sample of the materials to be evaluated. If the tests
are being made to evaluate a lot of paper or board, the sample shall be selected in accordance with ISO 186.
7 Conditioning
It is recommended that samples be conditioned in accordance with ISO 187, ISO 291, ISO 23529 or ISO 2231
depending on the material, prior to preparation of the test pieces, especially if the WVTR is known to be high.
8 Preparation of test pieces
Avoiding all damaged areas, cut from the sample, with the aid of the cutting template or test piece cutter
(5.7),(5.7), at least three circular test pieces of the appropriate diameter, for each side to be tested. Mark the
test pieces in some way so that the side to be exposed to the test atmosphere can be readily identified.
If the material is hygroscopic or if a greater accuracy is required, prepare at least one additional test piece for
blank measurements.
If the sheet material has been prepared by a process involving solvents, the result maycan be affected by the
residual solvent in the test pieces. If the test pieces are treated to remove the residual solvent, details of this
treatment shall be included in the test report.
9 Preparation of test dishes
Each test dish shall be assigned a different number.
Always begin by carefully cleaning and drying the test dishes and the templates.
Weigh the empty test dishes.
Fill each test dish with desiccant up to 3 mm to 5 mm below the final position of the test piece and level by
tapping.
It is important that the desiccant does not come into direct contact with the test piece. A gap of more than
3 mm between the test piece and the desiccant should be used. It is also important that there is not too much
distance between the test piece and the desiccant in the case a deeper test dish is used.
Weigh again the test dish with the desiccant and calculate the amount of desiccant in g by difference of weight.
For screw-sealed test dish:
— — Place the test piece (Clause 8)(8) in central position, followed by the rubber gasket, then the metal
flanged ring.
— — Seal the test dish by tightening the screws into the metal flanged ring (5.3).(5.3). To ensure even
clamping, tighten the screws in a diagonal sequence. Make sure that moderate force is used to screw the
test dish in order to prevent damage. The test piece should be flat and free of undulation or folds that
would prevent a good seal.
For threaded top test dish:
— — Place one neoprene gasket (5.4)(5.4) inside the cup so that it rests flat on the ledge created by the
smaller diameter of the bottom part of the test dish.
— — Place the test piece (Clause 8)(8) in central position, followed by the other neoprene gasket (5.4),(5.4),
then the PTFE ring (5.5).(5.5).
— — Seal the test dish by screwing the aluminium threaded flanged ring (5.6)(5.6) into the cup. The test
piece should be flat and free of undulation or folds that would prevent a good seal. Make sure that
moderate force is used to screw the test dish in order to prevent damage.
10 Procedure
10.1 General method
10.1.1 10.1.1 Weigh all the prepared test dishes, on the balance (5.9)(5.9) to the nearest 0,1 mg.
10.1.2 10.1.2 Place them upright in the enclosure (5.11)(5.11) set to the conditions of the test. Samples are
usually tested in the temperature and humidity applied for standard conditioning according to ISO 187 but
may be set to specific conditions (see Annex C).Annex C).
10.1.3 10.1.3 Weigh the test dishes, at suitable, regular intervals of time.
Weighing in a laboratory with controlled temperature and humidity (ISO 187) is recommended.
Weighing shall be carried out as follows:
— — Remove the test dishes from the controlled enclosure using the gloves (5.10)(5.10) and weigh the
assemblies to the nearest 0,1 mg and return them to the enclosure.
— — Take care in moving the test dishes to avoid contact of the desiccant with the test pieces. If there is
contact, the result shall be discarded and the test shall be repeated.
6 © ISO #### 2026 – All rights reserved
— — Take care to work rapidly, taking the test dishes in small groups always containing the same number,
so that the whole weighing operation always lasts about the same time (not exceeding 5 min).
— — The interval between weighing should be adapted to the material being tested. Short time intervals
(for example 3 h, 4 h or 8 h) can be necessary for materials with a high transmission rate, while longer
time
...
PROJET FINAL
Norme
internationale
ISO/TC 6/SC 2
Matériaux en feuilles —
Secrétariat: SIS
Détermination du coefficient de
Début de vote:
transmission de la vapeur d'eau
2026-08-14
— Méthode (de la capsule) par
Vote clos le:
gravimétrie
2026-10-09
Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission
rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
LES DESTINATAIRES DU PRÉSENT PROJET SONT
INVITÉS À PRÉSENTER, AVEC LEURS OBSERVATIONS,
NOTIFICATION DES DROITS DE PROPRIÉTÉ DONT ILS
AURAIENT ÉVENTUELLEMENT CONNAISSANCE ET À
FOURNIR UNE DOCUMENTATION EXPLICATIVE.
OUTRE LE FAIT D’ÊTRE EXAMINÉS POUR
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SERVIR DE RÉFÉRENCE DANS LA RÉGLEMENTATION
NATIONALE.
Numéro de référence
PROJET FINAL
Norme
internationale
ISO/TC 6/SC 2
Matériaux en feuilles —
Secrétariat: SIS
Détermination du coefficient de
Début de vote:
transmission de la vapeur d'eau
2026-08-14
— Méthode (de la capsule) par
Vote clos le:
gravimétrie
2026-10-09
Sheet materials — Determination of water vapour transmission
rate (WVTR) — Gravimetric (dish) method
LES DESTINATAIRES DU PRÉSENT PROJET SONT
INVITÉS À PRÉSENTER, AVEC LEURS OBSERVATIONS,
NOTIFICATION DES DROITS DE PROPRIÉTÉ DONT ILS
AURAIENT ÉVENTUELLEMENT CONNAISSANCE ET À
FOURNIR UNE DOCUMENTATION EXPLICATIVE.
DOCUMENT PROTÉGÉ PAR COPYRIGHT
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© ISO 2026 INDUSTRIELLES, TECHNOLOGIQUES ET COM-MERCIALES,
AINSI QUE DU POINT DE VUE DES UTILISATEURS, LES
Tous droits réservés. Sauf prescription différente ou nécessité dans le contexte de sa mise en œuvre, aucune partie de cette
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INTERNATIONALES DOIVENT PARFOIS ÊTRE CONSIDÉRÉS
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SERVIR DE RÉFÉRENCE DANS LA RÉGLEMENTATION
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Publié en Suisse Numéro de référence
ii
Sommaire Page
Avant-propos .iv
Introduction .v
1 Domaine d'application . 1
2 Références normatives . 1
3 Termes et définitions . 1
4 Principe. 2
5 Appareillage et matériaux . 2
6 Échantillonnage . 4
7 Conditionnement . 4
8 Préparation des éprouvettes . 5
9 Préparation des capsules d'essai . 5
10 Mode opératoire . 6
10.1 Méthode générale .6
10.2 Feuille pliée .7
11 Expression des résultats . 8
12 Fidélité . 8
13 Rapport d'essai . 9
Annexe A (normative) Capsules d'essai scellées à la cire – Description et préparation .10
Annexe B (normative) Méthode de préparation et de détermination du coefficient de
transmission de la vapeur d’eau des matériaux pliés .15
Annexe C (normative) Conditions d'essai .18
Annexe D (informative) Données de précision .20
Bibliographie .22
iii
Avant-propos
L'ISO (Organisation internationale de normalisation) est une fédération mondiale d'organismes nationaux
de normalisation (comités membres de l'ISO). L'élaboration des Normes internationales est en général
confiée aux comités techniques de l'ISO. Chaque comité membre intéressé par une étude a le droit de faire
partie du comité technique créé à cet effet. Les organisations internationales, gouvernementales et non
gouvernementales, en liaison avec l'ISO participent également aux travaux. L'ISO collabore étroitement avec
la Commission électrotechnique internationale (IEC) en ce qui concerne la normalisation électrotechnique.
Les procédures utilisées pour élaborer le présent document et celles destinées à sa mise à jour sont
décrites dans les Directives ISO/IEC, Partie 1. Il convient, en particulier, de prendre note des différents
critères d'approbation requis pour les différents types de documents ISO. Le présent document
a été rédigé conformément aux règles de rédaction données dans les Directives ISO/IEC, Partie 2
(voir www.iso.org/directives).
L'ISO attire l'attention sur le fait que la mise en application du présent document peut entraîner l'utilisation
d'un ou de plusieurs brevets. L'ISO ne prend pas position quant à la preuve, à la validité et à l'applicabilité
de tout droit de propriété revendiqué à cet égard. À la date de publication du présent document, l'ISO
n'avait pas reçu notification qu'un ou plusieurs brevets pouvaient être nécessaires à sa mise en application.
Toutefois, il y a lieu d'avertir les responsables de la mise en application du présent document que des
informations plus récentes sont susceptibles de figurer dans la base de données de brevets, disponible à
l'adresse www.iso.org/brevets. L'ISO ne saurait être tenue pour responsable de ne pas avoir identifié tout ou
partie de tels droits de brevet.
Les appellations commerciales éventuellement mentionnées dans le présent document sont données pour
information, par souci de commodité, à l'intention des utilisateurs et ne sauraient constituer un engagement.
Pour une explication de la nature volontaire des normes, la signification des termes et expressions
spécifiques de l'ISO liés à l'évaluation de la conformité, ou pour toute information au sujet de l'adhésion de
l'ISO aux principes de l'Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC) concernant les obstacles techniques au
commerce (OTC), voir www.iso.org/avant-propos.
Le présent document a été élaboré par le comité technique ISO/TC 6, Papiers, cartons et pâtes, sous-
comité SC 2, Méthodes d'essais et spécifications de qualité des papiers et cartons.
Cette quatrième édition annule et remplace la troisième édition (ISO 2528:2017), qui a fait l'objet d'une
révision technique.
Les principales modifications sont les suivantes:
— les capsules d'essai scellées mécaniquement sont aussi satisfaisantes que les capsules d'essai scellées par
cire et sont incluses dans le matériau qui peut être utilisé pour déterminer le coefficient de transmission
de la vapeur d'eau;
— les capsules d'essai scellées à la cire sont déplacées à l’Annexe A;
— la méthode de pesée a été modifiée;
— la préparation des éprouvettes et des capsules d'essai avec des parties supérieures scellées mécaniquement
a été ajoutée;
— dans l’Annexe B, la méthode de pliage a été modifiée et le calcul du coefficient de transmission de la
vapeur d'eau des plis a été généralisé;
— des données de précision ont été ajoutées à l’Annexe D.
Il convient que l'utilisateur adresse tout retour d'information ou toute question concernant le présent
document à l'organisme national de normalisation de son pays. Une liste exhaustive desdits organismes se
trouve à l'adresse www.iso.org/fr/members.html.
iv
Introduction
La méthode décrite dans le présent document peut théoriquement être appliquée à tout produit sous forme
de feuilles. En pratique, elle est surtout utilisée pour les produits plats, généralement minces, qui peuvent
recevoir un traitement en vue de constituer une barrière résistante à la vapeur d’eau (par exemple pour un
emballage), tels que du papier, du carton, des films plastiques ou des complexes de papier comportant des
films ou des feuilles de métal, et pour des supports textiles revêtus d’élastomères ou de matières plastiques.
L’intérêt de cet essai est d’obtenir, au moyen d’un appareillage simple, des valeurs fiables de coefficient de
transmission de la vapeur d’eau. Cependant, il convient que l’utilisation de ces valeurs pour toute application
particulière soit fondée sur l’expérience.
Le coefficient de transmission n’est pas une fonction linéaire de la température ni, généralement, de la
différence d’humidité relative. Une détermination de la température et de l'humidité relative faite dans
certaines conditions n’est donc pas forcément comparable avec une autre effectuée dans des conditions
différentes. Par conséquent, il convient que les conditions d’essai choisies soient les plus proches possible
des conditions d’utilisation.
v
PROJET FINAL Norme internationale ISO/FDIS 2528:2026(fr)
Matériaux en feuilles — Détermination du coefficient de
transmission de la vapeur d'eau — Méthode (de la capsule)
par gravimétrie
1 Domaine d'application
Le présent document spécifie une méthode afin de déterminer le coefficient de transmission de la vapeur
d’eau (souvent appelé de manière erronée “perméabilité”) des produits en feuilles. En général, l’utilisation
de cette méthode ne s'applique pas si le coefficient de transmission attendu est inférieur à 1 g/m par jour,
ni pour des matériaux d’une épaisseur supérieure à 3 mm. Dans de tels cas, il la méthode spécifiée dans
[2]
I’ISO 9932 peut s'appliquer .
Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux matériaux qui changent de dimension (rétrécissement ou
expansion) dans une mesure appréciable dans les conditions d'essai utilisées.
Pour les matériaux endommagés par de la cire chaude, seules des capsules d'essai scellées mécaniquement
peuvent être utilisées.
Pour les cas où la détermination du coefficient de transmission du matériau plié est nécessaire, un mode
opératoire est spécifié à l'Annexe B.
2 Références normatives
Les documents suivants cités dans le texte constituent, pour tout ou partie de leur contenu, des exigences du
présent document. Pour les références datées, seule l’édition citée s’applique. Pour les références non datées,
la dernière édition du document de référence s'applique (y compris les éventuels amendements).
ISO 186, Papier et carton — Échantillonnage pour déterminer la qualité moyenne
ISO 187, Papier, carton et pâtes — Atmosphère normale de conditionnement et d'essai et méthode de surveillance
de l'atmosphère et de conditionnement des échantillons
ISO 209, Aluminium et alliages d’aluminium corroyés — Composition chimique
ISO 291, Plastiques — Atmosphères normales de conditionnement et d'essai
ISO 2231, Supports textiles revêtus de caoutchouc ou de plastique — Atmosphères normales de conditionnement
et d'essai
ISO 23529, Caoutchouc — Procédures générales pour la préparation et le conditionnement des éprouvettes pour
les méthodes d'essais physiques
3 Termes et définitions
Pour les besoins du présent document, les termes et définitions suivants s'appliquent.
L'ISO et l'IEC tiennent à jour des bases de données terminologiques destinées à être utilisées en normalisation,
consultables aux adresses suivantes:
— ISO Online browsing platform: disponible à l'adresse https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: disponible à l'adresse https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d'eau
masse de vapeur d'eau transmise par unité de surface et par unité de temps, dans des conditions de
température et d'humidité spécifiées
Note 1 à l'article: Ce coefficient est exprimé en grammes par mètre carré par jour [g/(m × d)].
Note 2 à l'article: Le coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d'eau dépend de l'épaisseur, de la composition, de
l'homogénéité et de la perméabilité du ou des matériaux constitutifs, ainsi que des conditions de température et
d'humidité relative dans lesquelles l'essai est effectué (voir Annexe C). La perméabilité à la vapeur d'eau est une
caractéristique intrinsèque d'un matériau exprimée en g.μm/(m .d.Pa) et est indépendante de l'épaisseur et de la
pression.
3.2
coefficient de transmission d’une feuille pliée
coefficient de transmission, mesuré sur une éprouvette découpée après qu’un pliage normalisé a été effectué
et que la feuille a été remise à plat
Note 1 à l'article: Le coefficient de transmission d’une feuille pliée est exprimé en grammes par mètre carré par jour
[g/(m × d)].
3.3
coefficient de transmission des plis
différence entre le coefficient de transmission de la feuille pliée et celui de la feuille non pliée, tous deux
exprimés en grammes par mètre carré par jour, normalisés par rapport à un mètre linéaire de plis
Note 1 à l'article: Le coefficient de transmission des plis est exprimé en grammes par mètre linéaire (des plis) par jour
[g/(m.d)].
4 Principe
Des capsules d'essai contenant un agent desséchant et obturées par le matériau soumis à essai sont placées
en atmosphère contrôlée (voir Annexe C).
Ces capsules d'essai sont pesées à intervalles appropriés. Le coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d’eau
est déterminé à partir de l’augmentation de la masse, quand cette augmentation est devenue proportionnelle
aux intervalles de temps.
5 Appareillage et matériaux
La Figure 1 —représente des exemples d’équipement ayant donné satisfaction, mais d’autres équipements
peuvent s’avérer également satisfaisants. Les exemples suivants énumèrent les appareils et matériaux de
laboratoire applicables.
5.1 Capsules d'essai, en aluminium ou en acier inoxydable, dont le diamètre est le plus grand possible
compte tenu de la taille du plateau de la balance utilisée. II convient que les capsules soient légères mais
rigides, et qu’elles résistent à la corrosion dans les conditions de l’essai. Les capsules d'essai en aluminium,
de grade Al 99,5 conformément aux spécifications de I’ISO 209 et protégé par une oxydation chimique ou
anodique, ont été jugées appropriées.
Il convient que la profondeur intérieure de la capsule d'essai au-dessous du plan de l’éprouvette ne soit pas
inférieure à 15 mm (capsule d'essai profonde) ou à 8 mm (capsule d'essai de faible profondeur) et il ne doit
y avoir, dans la capsule, aucun obstacle qui pourrait restreindre le flux de vapeur d’eau entre l’éprouvette et
l'agent desséchant. L'aire du fond de la capsule d'essai, sur lequel se trouve l'agent desséchant, doit être la
même que celle de la surface exposée de l'éprouvette.
La construction de la capsule d'essai et la méthode d'étanchéité doivent être telles que la surface de
l'éprouvette exposée à l'atmosphère soit égale à la surface correspondant au diamètre intérieur de la
2 2
capsule. Cette zone doit être comprise entre 25 cm et 50 cm ce qui correspond à des diamètres compris
entre 56,4 mm ± 0,4 mm et 79,8 mm ± 0,4 mm.
Les capsules d'essai peuvent être scellées à l'aide de cire ou scellées mécaniquement.
Les capsules d'essai utilisant de la cire, ainsi que leur préparation, doivent être conformes à l'Annexe A.
Deux types de capsules d'essai scellées mécaniquement peuvent être utilisés: les capsules d'essai à vis et les
capsules d'essai filetées.
Dans le cas d'une capsule d'essai à vis, chaque capsule d'essai comporte une rainure autour du bord pour
sceller l'éprouvette à l'aide d'un joint en caoutchouc et d'un anneau de serrage en métal à bride. Cette rainure
a un profil tel que l’éprouvette puisse être scellée sur l’ouverture de la capsule à vis (voir Figure 1a) et que la
vapeur d’eau ne puisse pas entrer dans la capsule d'essai, ni en sortir, au niveau des bords de l’éprouvette. Le
diamètre intérieur de la capsule d'essai doit être égal au diamètre du joint en caoutchouc (5.2) et de l'anneau
de serrage à bride (5.3).
La capsule d'essai filetée supérieure comprend une coupelle en aluminium légère et une bague filetée à
collet en aluminium avec deux joints en polychloroprène (5.4) et un anneau en PTFE (5.5) qui maintiennent
l'éprouvette en place. (Figure 1b). Les échantillons sont chargés et scellés en place en tordant la bride
supérieure filetée en aluminium (5.6) en place. Le diamètre intérieur de la capsule d'essai doit être égal au
diamètre des joints en polychloroprène (5.4), de l'anneau en PTFE (5.5) et de l'anneau de serrage en métal à
bride en aluminium (5.6).
a) à vis
b) filetée
Légende
1 diamètre intérieur
2 vis
3 joint en caoutchouc
4 capsule d'essai
5 éprouvette
6 anneau de serrage en métal à bride
7 joints en polychloroprène
8 Anneau de serrage à bride en aluminium
9 Anneau en PTFE
Figure 1 — Exemples de capsules d'essai scellées mécaniquement
5.2 Joint en caoutchouc de diamètre correspondant au diamètre interne de la capsule d'essai à vis
(voir Figure 1) qui sera placé sur l'éprouvette. Le joint en caoutchouc doit être changé aussi souvent que
nécessaire afin d'assurer une étanchéité suffisante.
5.3 Anneau de serrage en métal à bride avec des diamètres internes et externes conçus pour sceller la
capsule d'essai afin d'éviter toute fuite de vapeur d'eau (voir Figure 1a).
5.4 Deux joints en polychloroprène de diamètre correspondant au diamètre intérieur de la capsule
d'essai filetée de telle sorte que l'éprouvette soit coincée entre eux lorsqu'elle est placée à l'intérieur de la
coupelle (voir Figure 1b).
5.5 Anneau en PTFE de diamètre tel qu'elle puisse être placée sur le joint en polychloroprène pour
empêcher la rotation de l'éprouvette lorsque la bride supérieure filetée en aluminium (5.6) est vissée dans la
coupelle pour sceller la capsule d'essai (voir Figure 1b).
5.6 Anneau de serrage à bride en aluminium avec des diamètres internes et externes conçus pour
sceller la capsule d'essai afin d'éviter toute fuite de vapeur d'eau (voir Figure 1b).
5.7 Gabarit de découpage ou emporte-pièce, dont la taille permet de découper des éprouvettes
circulaires d’un diamètre adapté aux capsules utilisées (voir Figure 1). Ce diamètre est légèrement inférieur
au diamètre intérieur du dessus de la capsule d'essai et supérieur au diamètre intérieur du fond de la capsule
d'essai (voir Figure 1).
Il convient que le diamètre de l'éprouvette soit aussi grand que possible sans créer d'ondulations ni de plis
lorsque la partie supérieure de la capsule d'essai est vissée.
5.8 Agent desséchant, tel que du gel de silice ou du chlorure de calcium anhydre (CaCI ) sous forme de
granules de 1 mm à 6 mm ou sous forme de produit en flocons friables de 1,5 mm à 2,0 mm.
NOTE La saturation limite de 1 g de chlorure de calcium est de 0,1 g d'eau. La saturation limite de 1 g de gel de
silice est de 0,04 g d'eau.
NOTE Le gel de silice peut perdre son efficacité d'absorption lorsqu'il est réchauffé plusieurs fois.
5.9 Balance, permettant de déterminer la masse de chaque capsule d'essai, couvercle et contenu à 0,1 mg
près.
5.10 Gants, pour la manipulation des capsules d'essai.
5.11 Enceinte (salle climatique ou chambre climatique), dans laquelle les conditions atmosphériques
requises peuvent être maintenues (voir Annexe C)et avec circulation d’air continue. Le dispositif de réglage
doit permettre de rétablir les conditions spécifiées au plus tard 15 min après la fermeture de l’enceinte.
6 Échantillonnage
S'assurer que les éprouvettes proviennent d'un échantillon représentatif des matériaux à évaluer. Si les essais
sont effectués pour évaluer un lot de papier ou de carton, l'échantillon doit être sélectionné conformément à
l'ISO 186.
7 Conditionnement
II est recommandé de conditionner les échantillons conformément à l'ISO 187, l'ISO 291, l'ISO 23529 ou
l'ISO 2231 selon le matériau soumis à essai, avant la préparation des éprouvettes, surtout lorsqu’on prévoit
un coefficient de transmission de la vapeur d’eau élevé.
8 Préparation des éprouvettes
Au moyen d’un gabarit de découpage ou d’un emporte-pièce (5.7), prélever sur l’échantillon, en évitant les
zones endommagées, au moins trois éprouvettes circulaires de diamètre approprié, pour chaque face à
soumettre à essai. Marquer les éprouvettes de façon que la face à exposer à l’atmosphère d’essai soit facile à
identifier.
Si le matériau est hygroscopique ou si une exactitude supérieure est requise, préparer au moins une
éprouvette supplémentaire de façon à pouvoir effectuer des mesurages à blanc.
Si le produit en feuilles a été préparé par un procédé comportant l’emploi de solvants, le solvant résiduel dans
les éprouvettes peut avoir une incidence sur le résultat. Si les éprouvettes sont soumises à un traitement
visant à éliminer le solvant résiduel, les informations concernant ce traitement doivent figurer dans le
rapport d’essai.
9 Préparation des capsules d'essai
Toutes les capsules d'essai doivent porter un numéro différent.
Commencer toujours par nettoyer et sécher soigneusement les capsules d'essai et les gabarits.
Peser les capsules d'essai vides.
Remplir chaque capsule d'essai d'agent desséchant jusqu’à un niveau de 3 mm à 5 mm au-dessous de la
position finale de l’éprouvette, et niveler l'agent desséchant en tapant.
Il est important que l'agent desséchant n'entre pas en contact direct avec l'éprouvette. Il convient d'utiliser
un espace de plus de 3 mm entre l'éprouvette et l'agent desséchant. Il est également important qu'il n'y ait
pas trop de distance entre l'éprouvette et l'agent desséchant dans le cas où une capsule d'essai plus profonde
est utilisée.
Peser à nouveau la capsule d'essai avec l'agent desséchant et calculer la quantité d'agent desséchant en g par
différence de masse.
Pour une capsule d'essai étanche à vis:
— Placer l'éprouvette (Article 8) en position centrale, suivie du joint en caoutchouc, puis de l'anneau de
serrage en métal à bride.
— Sceller la capsule d'essai en resserrant les vis dans l'anneau de serrage en métal à bride (5.3). Pour
assurer un serrage uniforme, serrer les vis en diagonale. S'assurer qu'une force modérée est utilisée pour
visser la capsule d'essai afin d'éviter tout dommage. Il convient que l'éprouvette soit plane et exempte
d'ondulation ou de plis qui empêcheraient une bonne étanchéité.
Pour la capsule d'essai filetée supérieure:
— Placer un joint en polychloroprène (5.3) à l'intérieur de la coupelle de sorte qu'il repose à plat sur la
cornière créée par le plus petit diamètre de la partie inférieure de la capsule d'essai.
— Placer l'éprouvette (Article 8) en position centrale, suivie de l'autre joint en polychloroprène (5.4), puis
de l'anneau en PTFE (5.5).
— Sceller la capsule d'essai en vissant l'anneau de serrage à bride en aluminium (5.6) dans la coupelle. Il
convient que l'éprouvette soit plane et exempte d'ondulation ou de plis qui empêcheraient une bonne
étanchéité. S'assurer qu'une force modérée est utilisée pour visser la capsule d'essai afin d'éviter tout
dommage.
10 Mode opératoire
10.1 Méthode générale
10.1.1 Peser toutes les capsules d'essai préparées, sur la balance (5.9) à 0,1 mg près.
10.1.2 Les placer d'aplomb dans l'enceinte (5.11) réglée dans les conditions de l'essai. Les échantillons
sont généralement soumis à essai à la température et l'humidité appliquées pour le conditionnement
normalisé conformément à l'ISO 187, mais celles-ci peuvent être réglées dans des conditions spécifiques
(voir Annexe C).
10.1.3 Peser les capsules d'essai, à intervalles réguliers appropriés.
Il est recommandé de peser dans un laboratoire à température et humidité contrôlées (ISO 187).
Les pesées doivent être effectuées comme suit:
— Retirer les capsules d'essai de l'enceinte contrôlée à l'aide des gants (5.10) et peser les assemblages à
0,1 mg près et les remettre dans l'enceinte.
— Faire attention en déplaçant les capsules d'essai afin d'éviter tout contact de l'agent desséchant avec les
éprouvettes. En cas de contact, le résultat doit être rejeté et l'essai doit être répété.
— Effectuer ces opérations rapidement, sur des petits groupes contenant toujours le même nombre de
capsules, de façon que l’ensemble des opérations de pesée soit à peu près de même durée (ne dépassant
pas 5 min).
— Il convient que l'intervalle entre chaque pesée soit adapté au matériau soumis à essai. Des intervalles
réduits (par exemple, 3 h, 4 h ou 8 h) peuvent être nécessaires pour les matériaux ayant un coefficient
de transmission élevé, tandis que des intervalles plus importants, de préférence 24 h, 48 h ou 96 h,
conviennent pour les matériaux ayant un faible coefficient de transmission. Il convient que l’augmentation
de la masse entre deux pesées successives soit d’au moins 5 mg.
— Si la première pesée indique une augmentation trop faible ou trop importante de la masse, l'inter
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