Designation: E 96 – 95

Standard Test Methods for

Water Vapor Transmission of Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E 96; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

e1 NOTE—Table 1 was corrected editorially and the year date was changed on March 6, 1995.

TABLE 1 Metric Units and Conversion FactorsA,B 2. Referenced Documents

To Obtain (for the 2.1 ASTM Standards:
Multiply by
same test condition)
C 168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulating Materi-
WVT
g/h·m2 1.43 grains/h·ft2
als2
grains/h·ft2 0.697 g/h·m2 D 449 Specification for Asphalt Used in Dampproofing and
Permeance Waterproofing3
g/Pa·s·m2 1.75 3 107 1 Perm (inch-pound)
1 Perm (inch-pound) 5.72 3 10−8 g/Pa·s·m2
D 2301 Specification for Vinyl Chloride Plastic Pressure-
Permeability Sensitive Electrical Insulating Tape4
g/Pa·s·m 6.88 3 108 1 Perm inch E 691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
1 Perm inch 1.45 3 10−9 g/Pa·s·m
Determine the Precision of a Test Method5
A
These units are used in the construction trade. Other units may be used in
other standards. 3. Terminology
B
All conversions of mm Hg to Pa are made at a temperature of 0°C.
3.1 Definitions of terms used in this standard will be found
1. Scope in Terminology C 168, from which the following is quoted:
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of water “water vapor permeability—the time rate of water vapor
vapor transmission (WVT) of materials through which the transmission through unit area of flat material of unit thickness
passage of water vapor may be of importance, such as paper, induced by unit vapor pressure difference between two specific
plastic films, other sheet materials, fiberboards, gypsum and surfaces, under specified temperature and humidity conditions.
plaster products, wood products, and plastics. The test methods 3.1.1 Discussion—Permeability is a property of a material,
are limited to specimens not over 11⁄4 in. (32 mm) in thickness but the permeability of a body that performs like a material
except as provided in Section 9. Two basic methods, the may be used. Permeability is the arithmetic product of per-
Desiccant Method and the Water Method, are provided for the meance and thickness.
measurement of permeance, and two variations include service “water vapor permeance—the time rate of water vapor
conditions with one side wetted and service conditions with transmission through unit area of flat material or construction
low humidity on one side and high humidity on the other. induced by unit vapor pressure difference between two specific
Agreement should not be expected between results obtained by surfaces, under specified temperature and humidity conditions.
different methods. That method should be selected which more 3.1.2 Discussion—Permeance is a performance evaluation
nearly approaches the conditions of use. and not a property of a material.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded 3.2 water vapor transmission rate—the steady water vapor
as the standard. Metric inch-pound conversion factors for flow in unit time through unit area of a body, normal to specific
WVT, permeance, and permeability are stated in Table 1. All parallel surfaces, under specific conditions of temperature and
conversions of mm Hg to Pa are made at a temperature of 0°C. humidity at each surface.”
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
4. Summary of Test Methods
safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 4.1 In the Desiccant Method the test specimen is sealed to
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- the open mouth of a test dish containing a desiccant, and the
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. assembly placed in a controlled atmosphere. Periodic weigh-
ings determine the rate of water vapor movement through the
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C-16 on
2
Thermal Insulation and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.33 on Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.06.
3
Thermal Insulation Finishes and Vapor Transmission. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.04.
4
Current edition approved March 6, 1995. Published May 1995. Originally Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 10.01.
5
published as E 96 – 53 T. Last previous edition E 96 – 94. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02.

Copyright © ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

1
 E 96
specimen into the desiccant. 6.2 Test Chamber—The room or cabinet where the as-
4.2 In the Water Method, the dish contains distilled water, sembled test dishes are to be placed shall have a controlled
and the weighings determine the rate of vapor movement temperature and relative humidity. The temperature chosen
through the specimen from the water to the controlled atmo- shall be between 70 and 90°F (21 and 32°C), and shall be
sphere. The vapor pressure difference is nominally the same in maintained constant within 1°F (0.6°C). A temperature of 90°F
both methods except in the variation, with extremes of humid- (32°C) is recommended (Note 1). The relative humidity shall
ity on opposite sides. be maintained at 50 6 2 %, except where extremes of
humidities are desired, when the conditions shall be 100 6 1°F
5. Significance and Use (38 6 0.6°C) and 90 6 2 % relative humidity. Both tempera-
5.1 The purpose of these tests is to obtain, by means of ture and relative humidity shall be measured frequently, or
simple apparatus, reliable values of water vapor transfer preferably recorded continuously. Air shall be continuously
through permeable and semipermeable materials, expressed in circulated throughout the chamber, with a velocity sufficient to
suitable units. These values are for use in design, manufacture, maintain uniform conditions at all test locations. The air
and marketing. A permeance value obtained under one set of velocity over the specimen in feet per minute shall be,
test conditions may not indicate the value under a different set numerically, not less than ten times the permeance of the
of conditions. For this reason, the test conditions should be specimen expressed in perms, not exceeding a maximum of
selected that most closely approach the conditions of use. 600 ft/min (3.05 m/s). However, for designed materials with a
While any set of conditions may be used and those conditions permeance of greater than 55 perms the velocity shall be 550
reported, standard conditions that have been useful are shown 6 50 ft/min (2.80 6 25 m/s). Suitable racks shall be provided
in Appendix X1. on which to place the test dishes within the test chamber.

6. Apparatus NOTE 1—Simple temperature control by heating alone is usually made

possible at 90°F (32°C). However, it is very desirable to enter the
6.1 Test Dish—The test dish shall be of any noncorroding controlled space, and a comfortable temperature is more satisfactory for
material, impermeable to water or water vapor. It may be of that arrangement. Temperatures of 73.4°F (23°C) and 80°F (26.7°C) are in
any shape. Light weight is desirable. A large, shallow dish is use and are satisfactory for this purpose. With cyclic control, the average
preferred, but its size and weight are limited when an analytical test temperature may be obtained from a sensitive thermometer in a mass
of dry sand. The temperature of the chamber walls facing a specimen over
balance is chosen to detect small weight changes. The mouth of
water should not be cooler than the water to avoid condensation on the test
the dish shall be as large as practical and at least 4.65 in.2(3000 specimen.
mm2x). The desiccant or water area shall be not less than the
mouth area except if a grid is used, as provided in 12.1, its 6.3 Balance and Weights—The balance shall be sensitive to
effective area shall not exceed 10 % of the mouth area. An a change smaller than 1 % of the weight change during the
external flange or ledge around the mouth, to which the period when a steady state is considered to exist. The weights
specimen may be attached, is useful when shrinking or warping used shall be accurate to 1 % of the weight change during the
occurs. When the specimen area is larger than the mouth area, steady-state period. For example: -perm
this overlay upon the ledge is a source of error, particularly for (5.7 3 10−11kg·Pa−1·s−1·m−2) specimen 10 in. (254 mm) square
thick specimens. This overlay material should be masked as at 80°F (26.7°C) passes 8.6 grains or 0.56 g/day. In 18 days of
described in 10.1 so that the mouth area defines the test area. steady state, the transfer is 10 g. For this usage, the balance
The overlay material results in a positive error, indicating must have a sensitivity of 1 % of 10 g or 0.1 g and the weights
excessive water vapor transmission. The magnitude of the error must be accurate to 0.1 g. If, however, the balance has a
is a complex function of the thickness, ledge width, mouth sensitivity of 0.2 g or the weights are no better than 0.2 g, the
area, and possibly the permeability. This error is discussed by requirements of this paragraph can be met by continuing the
Joy and Wilson.6 This type of error should be limited to about steady state for 36 days. An analytical balance that is much
10 to 12 %. For a thick specimen the ledge should not exceed more sensitive will permit more rapid results on specimens
3⁄4 in. (19 mm) for a 10-in. (254-mm) or larger mouth (square below 1 perm (5.7 3 10−11kg·Pa−1·s−1·m−2) when the as-
or circular) or 1⁄8in. (3 mm) for a 5-in. (127-mm) mouth (square sembled dish is not excessively heavy. A light wire sling may
or circular). For a 3-in. (76-mm) mouth (square or circular) the be substituted for the usual pan to accommodate a larger and
ledge should not exceed 0.11 in. (2.8 mm) wide. An allowable heavier load.
ledge may be interpolated for intermediate sizes or calculated
according to Joy and Wilson.6 A rim around the ledge (Fig. 7. Materials
X1.1) may be useful. If a rim is provided, it shall be not more 7.1 Desiccant and Water:
than 1⁄4in. (6 mm) higher than the specimen as attached. 7.1.1 For the Desiccant Method, anhydrous calcium chlo-
Different depths may be used for the Desiccant Method and ride in the form of small lumps that will pass a No. 8
Water Method, but a 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) depth (below the mouth) (2.36-mm) sieve, and free of fines that will pass a No. 30
is satisfactory for either method. (600-µm) sieve, shall be used (Note 2). It shall be dried at
400°F (200°C) before use.
6
Joy, F. A., and Wilson, H. G., “Standardization of the Dish Method for NOTE 2—If CaCl2 will react chemically on the specimen, an adsorbing
Measuring Water Vapor Transmissions,” National Research Council of Canada, desiccant such as silica gel, activated at 400°F (200°C), may be used; but
Research Paper 279, January 1966, p. 263. the moisture gain by this desiccant during the test must be limited to 4 %.

2
 E 96
7.1.2 For the Water Method, distilled water shall be used in weights may significantly increase the time required to com-
the test dish. plete the test. Because time to reach equilibrium of water
7.2 Sealant—The sealant used for attaching the specimen to permeance increases as the square of thickness, thick, particu-
the dish, in order to be suitable for this purpose, must be highly larly hygroscopic, materials may take as long as 60 days to
resistant to the passage of water vapor (and water). It must not reach equilibrium conditions.
lose weight to, or gain weight from, the atmosphere in an
amount, over the required period of time, that would affect the 10. Attachment of Specimen to Test Dish
test result by more than 2 %. It must not affect the vapor 10.1 Attach the specimen to the dish by sealing (and
pressure in a water-filled dish. Molten asphalt or wax is clamping if desired) in such a manner that the dish mouth
required for permeance tests below 4 perms defines the area of the specimen exposed to the vapor pressure
(2.3 3 10−10kg·Pa−1·s−1·m−2). Sealing methods are discussed in the dish. If necessary, mask the specimen top surface,
in Appendix X2. exposed to conditioned air so that its exposure duplicates the
mouth shape and size and is directly above it. A template is
8. Sampling recommended for locating the mask. Thoroughly seal the edges
8.1 The material shall be sampled in accordance with of the specimen to prevent the passage of vapor into, or out of,
standard methods of sampling applicable to the material under or around the specimen edges or any portion thereof. The same
test. The sample shall be of uniform thickness. If the material assurance must apply to any part of the specimen faces outside
is of nonsymmetrical construction, the two faces shall be their defined areas. Suggested methods of attachment are
designated by distinguishing marks (for example, on a one- described in Appendix X2.
side-coated sample, “I” for the coated side and “II” for the NOTE 3—In order to minimize the risk of condensation on the interior
uncoated side). surface of the sample when it is placed in the chamber, the temperature of
the water prior to preparation of the test specimen should be within 62°F
9. Test Specimens (61.1°C) of the test condition.
9.1 Test specimens shall be representative of the material
tested. When a product is designed for use in only one position, 11. Procedure for Desiccant Method
three specimens shall be tested by the same method with the 11.1 Fill the test dish with desiccant within 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) of
vapor flow in the designated direction. When the sides of a the specimen. Leave enough space so that shaking of the dish,
product are indistinguishable, three specimens shall be tested which must be done at each weighing, will mix the desiccant.
by the same method. When the sides of a product are different 11.2 Attach the specimen to the dish (see 10.1) and place it
and either side may face the vapor source, four specimens shall in the controlled chamber, specimen up, weighing it at once.
be tested by the same method, two being tested with the vapor (This weight may be helpful to an understanding of the initial
flow in each direction and so reported. moisture in the specimen.)
9.2 A slab, produced and used as a laminate (such as a 11.3 Weigh the dish assembly periodically, often enough to
foamed plastic with natural “skins”) may be tested in the provide eight or ten data points during the test. A data point is
thickness of use. Alternatively, it may be sliced into two or the weight at a particular time. The time that the weight is made
more sheets, each being separately tested and so reported as should be recorded to a precision of approximately 1 % of the
provided in 9.4, provided also, that the “overlay upon the cup time span between successive weighing. Thus, if weighings are
ledge” (6.1) of any laminate shall not exceed 1⁄8 in. (3 mm). made every hour, record the time to the nearest 30 s; if
9.3 When the material as used has a pitted or textured recordings are made every day, a time to the nearest 15 min
surface, the tested thickness shall be that of use. When it is would be allowed. At first the weight may change rapidly; later
homogeneous, however, a thinner slice of the slab may be a steady state will be reached where the rate of change is
tested as provided in 9.4. substantially constant. Weighings should be accomplished
9.4 In either case (9.2 or 9.3), the tested overall thickness, if without removal of the test dishes from the controlled atmo-
less than that of use, shall be at least five times the sum of the sphere, but if removal is prescribed necessary, the time the
maximum pit depths in both its faces, and its tested permeance specimens are kept at different conditions, temperature or
shall be not greater than 5 perms (3.3 metric perms). relative humidity, or both, should be kept to a minimum. When
9.5 The overall thickness of each specimen shall be mea- results of water vapor transmission are expected to be less than
sured at the center of each quadrant and the results averaged. .05 perm, a dummy specimen is strongly recommended. Such
Measurement of specimens of 0.125 in. or less in thickness a dummy specimen should be attached to an empty cup in the
shall be made to the nearest 0.0001 in. Measurement of normal manner. The environmental effects of temperature
specimens greater than 0.125 in. in thickness shall be made to variation and buoyancy variability due to barometric pressure
the nearest 0.001 in. fluctuation can be arithmetically tared out of the weighing
9.6 When testing any material with a permeance less than values. This precaution permits earlier and more reliable
0.05 perms or when testing a low permeance material that may achievement of equilibrium conditions. Analyze the results as
be expected to lose or gain weight throughout the test (because prescribed in 13.1.
of evaporation or oxidation), it is strongly recommended that 11.4 Terminate the test or change the desiccant before the
an additional specimen, or “dummy,” be tested exactly like the water added to the desiccant exceeds 10 % of its starting
others, except that no desiccant or water is put in the dish. weight (Note 1 and Note 3). This limit cannot be exactly
Failure to use this dummy specimen to establish modified dish determined and judgement is required. The desiccant gain may

3
 E 96
be more or less than the dish weight-gain when the moisture balance in the upright position for weighing, but the period
content of the specimen has changed. during which the wetted surface of the specimen is not covered
with water must be kept to a minimum.
NOTE 4—The WVT of some materials (especially wood) may depend
on the ambient relative humidity immediately before the test. An apparent
hysteresis results in higher WVT if the prior relative humidity was above 13. Calculation and Analysis of Results
the test condition and vice versa. It is therefore recommended that 13.1 The results of the rate of water vapor transmission may
specimens of wood and paper products be conditioned to constant weight be determined either graphically or numerically.
in a 50 % relative humidity atmosphere before they are tested. Some
specimens may be advantageously preconditioned to minimize the mois-
13.1.1 Dummy Specimen—If a dummy specimen has been
ture that the specimen will give up to the desiccant. This applies when the used to compensate for variability in test conditions, due to
specimen is likely to have high moisture content or when it is coated on temperature or barometric pressure, or both, the daily recorded
the top (vapor source) side. weights can be adjusted by calculating the weight change from
initial to time of weighing. This adjustment is made by
12. Procedure for Water Method reversing the direction of the dummy’s weight change, relative
12.1 Fill the test dish with distilled water to a level 3⁄4 6 1⁄4 to its initial weight, and modifying all the appropriate specimen
in. (19 6 6 mm) from the specimen. The air space thus allowed weight(s) recorded at this time. This permits earlier achieve-
has a small vapor resistance, but it is necessary in order to ment of equilibrium conditions. An alternate procedure, par-
reduce the risk of water touching the specimen when the dish ticulary for tests of long duration and more than six weighings,
is handled. Such contact invalidates a test on some materials is to subtract the arithmetic mean slope of the rate of weight
such as paper, wood, or other hygroscopic materials. The water change of the dummy specimen from the arithmetic mean slope
depth shall be not less than 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) to ensure coverage of of each similar specimen to get an effective rate of weight
the dish bottom throughout the test. However, if the dish is of change. These procedures are also desirable if the specimen is
glass, its bottom must be visibly covered at all times but no changing weight due to a curing process while under test.
specific depth is required. Water surges may be reduced in 13.1.2 Graphic Analysis—Plot the weight, modified by the
placing a grid of light noncorroding material in the dish to dummy specimen when used, against elapsed time, and in-
break the water surface. This grid shall be at least 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) scribe a curve which tends to become straight. Judgment here
below the specimen, and it shall not reduce the water surface is required and numerous points are helpful. When a straight
by more than 10 % (Note 4). line adequately fits the plot of at least six properly spaced
points (periodic weight changes matching, or exceeding 20 %
NOTE 5—For the Water Method, baking the empty dish and promptly
coating its mouth with sealant before assembly is recommended. The
of the multiple of 100 times the scale sensitivity), a nominally
water may be added most conveniently after the specimen is attached, steady state is assumed, and the slope of the straight line is the
through a small sealable hole in the dish above the water line. rate of water vapor transmission.
13.1.3 Numerical Analysis—A mathematical least squares
12.2 Attach the specimen to the dish (see 10.1). Some
regression analysis of the weight, modified by the dummy
specimens are likely to warp and break the seal during the test.
specimen when used, as a function of time will give the rate of
The risk is reduced by preconditioning the specimen, and by
water vapor transmission. An uncertainty, or standard deviation
clamping it to the dish ledge (if one is provided).
of this rate, can also be calculated to define the confidence
12.3 Weigh the dish assembly and place it in the controlled band. For very low permeability materials, this method can be
chamber on a true horizontal surface. Follow the procedure used to determine the results after 30 to 60 days when using an
given in 11.3. If the test specimen cannot tolerate condensation analytical balance, with a sensitivity of 61 mg, even if the
on the surface, the dish assembly shall not be exposed to a weight change does not meet the 100 times the sensitivity
temperature that differs by more than 5°F (2.8°C) from the requirement of 6.3. Specimens analyzed in this manner must be
control atmosphere to minimize the risk of condensation on the clearly identified in the report.
specimen. When results of water vapor transmission are 13.2 Calculate the water vapor transmission, WVT, and
expected to be less than .05 perm, a dummy specimen is permeance as follows:
strongly recommended. Such a dummy specimen should be
13.2.1 Water Vapor Transmission:
attached to an empty cup in the normal manner. The environ-
ment effects of temperature variation and buoyancy variability WVT 5 G/tA 5 ~G/t!/A (1)
due to barometric pressure fluctuation can be arithmetically where:
tared out of the weighing values. This precaution permits In inch-pound units:
earlier and more reliable achievement of equilibrium condi- G 5 weight change, grains (from the straight line),
tions. Analyze the results as prescribed in 13.1. t 5 time during which G occurred, h,
12.4 Where water is expected to be in contact with the G/t 5 slope of the straight line, grains/h,
barrier in service, proceed as in 11.3 except place the dish in an A 5 test area (cup mouth area), ft2, and
inverted position. The dish must be sufficiently level so that WVT 5 rate of water vapor transmission, grains/h·ft2.
water covers the inner surface of the specimen despite any
distortion of the specimen due to the weight of the water. With In metric units:
highly permeable specimens it is especially important to locate G 5 weight change (from the straight line), g,
the test dish so that air circulates over the exposed surface at t 5 time, h,
G/t 5 slope of the straight line, g/h,
the specified velocity. The test dishes may be placed on the

4
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A 5 test area (cup mouth area), m2, and G/t 5

12 g/240 h 5 0.05 g/h,
WVT 5 rate of water vapor transmission, g/h·m2. A 5
0.0645 m2,
13.2.2 Permeance: S 5
35 mm Hg (from reference tables),
355 mm Hg 3 1.333 3 10 2 Pa/mm
Permeance 5 WVT/Dp 5 WVT/S~R1 2 R2! (2)
Hg 5 46.66 3 102 Pa,
where: R1 5 49 % (in chamber),
In inch-pound units: R2 5 0 % (vapor sink), and
Dp 5 vapor pressure difference, in. Hg, WVT 5 0.05 g/h 4 0.0645 m2 5 0.775 g/h·m2.
S 5 saturation vapor pressure at test temperature, in. Hg, Permeance 5 WVT/DP − WVT/S (R1 − R2)
R1 5 relative humidity at the source expressed as a fraction 5 0.775 g/h·m2 3 1 h/3600s 4 46.66 3 102
(the test chamber for desiccant method; in the dish for Pa 3 (0.49 − 0)
water method), and 5 9.42 3 10−8 g/Pa·s·m2
R2 5 relative humidity at the vapor sink expressed as a 13.4 Metric units and conversion factor are given in Table 1.
fraction
14. Report
In metric units: 14.1 The report shall include the following:
Dp 5 vapor pressure difference, mm Hg (1.333 3 102 Pa), 14.1.1 Identification of the material tested, including its
S 5 saturation vapor pressure at test temperature, mm Hg thickness.
(1.333 3 102 Pa), 14.1.2 Test method used (desiccant or water).
R1 5 relative humidity at the source expressed as a fraction 14.1.3 Test temperature.
(the test chamber for desiccant method; in the dish for 14.1.4 Relative humidity in the test chamber.
water method), and 14.1.5 Permeance of each specimen in perms (to two
R2 5 relative humidity at the vapor sink expressed as a significant figures).
fraction. 14.1.6 The side of each specimen on which the higher vapor
13.2.3 In the controlled chamber the relative humidity and pressure was applied. (The sides shall be distinguished as “side
temperature are the average values actually measured during A” and “side B” when there is no obvious difference between
the test and (unless continuously recorded) these measurements them. When there is an obvious difference, this difference shall
shall be made as frequently as the weight measurements. In the also be stated, such as “side A waxed” and “side B unwaxed.”).
dish the relative humidity is nominally 0 % for the desiccant 14.1.7 The average permeance of all specimens tested in
and 100 % for the water. These values are usually within 3 % each position.
relative humidity of the actual relative humidity for specimens 14.1.8 The permeability of each specimen (as limited by
below 4 perms (2.3 3 10−7g·Pa−1·s−1·m−2) when the required 13.3), and the average permeability of all specimens tested.
conditions are maintained (no more than 10 % moisture in 14.1.9 Include a portion of the plot indicating the section of
CaCl2 and no more than 1 in. (25 mm) air space above water). the curve used to calculate permeability.
13.3 Only when the test specimen is homogeneous (not 14.1.10 State design of cup and type or composition of
laminated) and not less than 1⁄2in. (12.5 mm) thick, calculate its sealant.
average permeability (perm in.) (metric perm-cm) as follows:
Average permeability 5 permeance 3 thickness (3)
15. Precision and Bias 7
15.1 Precision—Table 2 is based on an interlaboratory tests
NOTE 6—Example: In a desiccant test that ran 288 h (12 days) on an
conducted in 1988 and 1991.7,8 In 1988 four materials (A, B,
exposed area of 100 in.2 (0.0645 m2), it was found that the rate of gain was
substantially constant after 48 h and during the subsequent 240 h, the C, D) were tested using the dessicant method and the water
weight gain was 12 g. The controlled chamber conditions were measured method in triplicate. Fifteen laboratories contributed data, with
at 89.0°F (31.7°C) and 49 % relative humidity. full results secured from four laboratories. In 1991 ten labora-
tories contributed data for material E, using triplicate speci-
Required: WVT and permeance mens, again using both the dessicant method and the water
Calculation (inch-pound units): method.
G/t 5 12 g 3 15.43 grains⁄g 4 240 h 15.1.1 Test results were analyzed using Practice E 691.
5 0.771 grains/h, 15.2 Bias—This test method has no bias because water
A 5 100 in.2 3 1 ft2⁄144 in.2 5 0.695 ft2,
vapor transmission of materials is defined in terms of this test
S 5 1.378 in. Hg (from standard references
method.
tables),
R1 5 49 % (in chamber), 16. Keywords
R2 5 0 % (vapor sink), and
WVT 5 0.771 grains/h 4 0.694 ft2 5 1.11 grains/ 16.1 permeability; plastics (general); plastic sheet and film;
ft2·h. sheet material; thermal-insulating materials; thermal insulation
Permeance 5 WVT/DP 5 WVT/S (R1 − R2)
5 1.11 grains/ft2·h4 1.378 in. Hg (0.49 − 0)
5 1.64 grains/ft2·h·in. Hg 5 1.64 perms
7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM Headquarters. Request RR: C-16-
1014.
8
Available from E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Co., Inc., Polymer Products Dept.,
Calculation (metric units):
Wilmington, DE 19898.

5
 E 96
TABLE 2 Precision Results from Interlaboratory Testing
For Desiccant Method at 73.4°F:
WVT (mean), RepeatabilityA ReproducibilityA
Material Thickness, in.
perm S CV % LSD S CV % LSD
A 0.001 0.606 0.0166 2.70 0.047 0.098 15.0 0.278
B 0.0055 0.0129 0.0028 22.1 0.008 0.0055 42.6 0.016
C 0.5 0.0613 0.0044 7.22 0.012 0.0185 30.6 0.052
D 1.0 0.783 0.0259 3.30 0.073 0.0613 7.8 0.174
E 0.014 0.0461 0.0023 4.99 0.007 0.0054 11.7 0.015
For Water Method at 73.4°F:
WVT (mean), RepeatabilityA ReproducibilityA
Material Thickness, in.
perm S CV % LSD S CV % LSD
A 0.001 0.715 0.0134 1.95 0.039 0.156 21.9 0.44
B 0.0055 0.0157 0.0022 13.8 0.0062 0.0021 19.4 0.006
C 0.5 0.097 0.0055 5.7 0.016 0.0195 20.9 0.055
D 1.0 1.04 0.0192 1.8 0.054 0.217 20.9 0.62
E 0.014 0.0594 0.0034 5.7 0.010 0.0082 13.8 0.023
A
For this data,

S 5 standard deviation,
CV 5 percent coefficient of variation (S 3 100/mean), and
LSD 5 least significant difference between two individual test results based on a 95 % confidence level 5 2 =2S .
B
Material B was Teflon8 PTFE fluorocarbon resin brand of tetrafluoroethylene. It was extremely difficult to provide a seal to this sample, which accounts for the poor
repeatability.

permeability films; water vapor transmission (WVT)

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. STANDARD TEST CONDITIONS

X1.1 Standard test conditons that have been useful are: X1.1.4 Procedure C—Desiccant Method at 90°F (32.2°C).
X1.1.1 Procedure A—Desiccant Method at 73.4°F (23°C). X1.1.5 Procedure D—Water Method at 90°F (32.2°C).
X1.1.2 Procedure B—Water Method at 73.4°F (23°C). X1.1.6 Procedure E—Desiccant Method at 100°F (37.8°C).
X1.1.3 Procedure BW—Inverted Water Method at 73.4°F
(23°C).

X2. CUP DESIGN AND SEALING METHODS

X1.2 An ideal sealing material has the following properties: varying degrees and the choice is a compromise, with more
X1.2.1 Impermeability to water in either vapor or liquid tolerance in items at the beginning of this list for the sake of
form. those at the latter part of the list when the requirements of 7.2
X1.2.2 No gain or loss of weight from or to the test chamber are met (Note A2). Molten asphalt or wax is required for
(evaporation, oxidation, hygroscopicity, and water solubility permeance tests below 4 perms (2.6 metric perms). Tests to
being undersirable). determine sealant behavior should include:
X1.2.3 Good adhesion to any specimen and to the dish X1.2.8.1 An impervious specimen (metal) normally sealed
(even when wet). to the dish and so tested, and
X1.2.4 Complete conformity to a rough surface. X1.2.8.2 The seal normally assembled to an empty dish
X1.2.5 Compatibility with the specimen and no excessive with no specimen and so tested.
penetration into it.
X1.2.6 Strength or pliability (or both). X1.3 The following materials are recommended for general
X1.2.7 Easy handleability (including desirable viscosity and use when the test specimen will not be affected by the
thermal of molten sealant). temperature of the sealant:
X1.2.8 Satisfactory sealants possess these properties in X1.3.1 Asphalt, 180 to 200°F (82 to 93°C) softening point,

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meeting the requirements of Specification D 449, Type C. X1.5.1 Apparatus:
Apply by pouring. X1.5.1.1 Template—A square frame of brass or steel, 3⁄16in.
X1.3.2 Beeswax and rosin (equal weights). A temperature of (5 mm) thick and 3⁄4 in. (19 mm) deep. The 3⁄16-in. (5-mm)
275°F (135°C) is desirable for brush application. Pour at lower thickness is tapered to zero at the bottom of the frame where it
temperature. will touch the test specimen and maintain a 10-in. (254-mm)
X1.3.3 Microcrystalline wax9 (60 %), mixed with refined square test area.
crystalline paraffin wax (40 %). X1.5.1.2 Sealant—Asphalt (see X1.3.1 used at the proper
pouring consistency of 375 to 450°F (179 to 232°C).
X1.4 The materials listed in X1.4.1 are recommended for X1.5.1.3 Melting Pot for the asphalt, electrically heated,
particular uses such as those shown in Fig. X1.1. The suggested with one dimension greater than 113⁄8 in. (289 mm).
procedure described in X1.4.2 applies to an 11-3⁄8-in. (289- X1.5.1.4 Small Ladle for pouring.
mm) square specimen if its permeance exceeds 4 perms (2.6 X1.5.2 Procedure—Mark the 113⁄8-in. (289-mm) square
metric perms) (limited by evaporation of sealants). specimen with a line at an equal distance from each edge, so
X1.4.1 Materials: that the area enclosed by the lines is as nearly as possible a
X1.4.1.1 Aluminum foil, 0.005 in. (0.125 mm) minimum 10-in. (254-mm) square. The template may be used for
thickness. marking. Dip each edge of the specimen in molten asphalt up
X1.4.1.2 Tape, meeting the requirements of Specification to the line, so that the test area is defined and all edges are
D 2301, vinyl chloride plastic pressure-sensitive, electrical coated with a heavy layer of asphalt. Place the specimen over
insulating tape. the pan containing water or desiccant. Lightly oil the template
X1.4.1.3 Cement, contact bond, preferably rubber base. or coat with petroleum jelly on its outer side, and place on the
X1.4.2 Procedure: specimen. Pour molten asphalt into the space between the
X1.4.2.1 Step 1—Seal aluminum foil around edges of speci- template and the rim of the pan. After the asphalt has cooled for
men, leaving a 100-in.2(0.0654-m2) exposed test area on each a few minutes, the template should be easily removable.
side. Use contact bond cement as directed by the manufacturer.
X1.4.2.2 Step 2—Spread sealant on inside of rim and ledge. X1.6 Hot wax may be applied like asphalt. It may also be
Place desiccant (dry), or water and surge control material (wet) applied (freely) with a small brush. Its lower working tempera-
in pan. Press specimen in place. Avoid squeezing compound ture may be advantageous when a specimen contains moisture.
into the test area.
X1.4.2.3 Step 3—Coat outside of rim and bottom of ledge X1.7 Several designs for dishes with supporting rings and
with contact bond cement, and place foil strips from edge of flanges are shown in Fig. X1.2. Various modifications of these
template, around rim, and bottom of ledge. designs may be made provided that the principle of prevention
of edge leakage by means of a complete seal is retained. The
X1.5 A method of using hot asphalt, as applied to a 10-in. dishes may be constructed of any rigid, impermeable,
(254-mm) square-mouth dish with ledge and rim, is as follows: corrosion-resistant material, provided that they can be accom-
modated on the available analytical balance. A lightweight
metal, such as aluminum or one of its alloys, is generally used
9
for larger-size dishes. In some cases when an aluminum dish is
Grade Nos. 2305 or 2310 of the Mobil Oil Corp., or their equivalent, have been
found satisfactory for this purpose.
employed and moisture is allowed to condense on its surface,

FIG. X1.1 Apparatus for Water Vapor Transmission Tests of Large Thick Specimens

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FIG. X1.3 Template Suitable for Use in Making the Wax Seals on
Test Dishes

FIG. X1.2 Several Types of Dishes for Water Vapor Transmission

Tests of Materials in Sheet Form the effective opening of the dish in contact with the specimen.
Small guides may be attached to the template to center it
there may be appreciable oxidation of the aluminum with a automatically on the test specimen. A small hole through the
resulting gain in weight. Any gain in weight will ordinarily template to admit air, and petrolatum applied to the beveled
depend on the previous history of the dish and the cleanness of edge of the template facilitate its removal after sealing the test
the surface. An empty dish carried through the test procedure specimen to the dish. In use, the template is placed over the test
as a control will help to determine whether any error may be specimen and when it is carefully centered with the dish
expected from this cause. When aluminum dishes are used for opening, molten wax is flowed into the annular space surround-
the water methods, a pressure may develop inside the assembly ing the beveled edge of the template. As soon as the wax has
during a test due to corrosion. This can cause seal failure or solidified, the template is removed from the sheet with a
otherwise affect the result. Where this is a problem, it can be twisting motion. The outside flange of the dish should be high
overcome by providing inside the dish a protective coating of enough to extend over the top of the specimen, thus allowing
baked-on epoxy resin or similar material. Dishes with flanges the wax to completely envelop the edge.
or rings that project from the inner walls of the dish are to be X1.7.4 Gasketed types of seals are also in use on appropri-
avoided, as such projections influence the diffusion of the ately designed dishes. These simplify the mounting of the
water vapor. The depth of the dish for the water procedures is specimen, but must be used with caution, since the possibility
such that there is a 0.80 6 0.20 in. (20 6 5-mm) distance of edge leakage is greater with gasketed seals than with wax
between the water surface and the under surface of the seals. Gasketed seals are not permitted for the measurement of
specimen, with a water depth of about 0.20 in. (5 mm). permeance less than 44 perms (2.3 3 10−7 g·Pa−1·s−1·m2). As a
X1.7.1 For the desiccant-in-dish procedures, the dishes need further precaution when gasketed seals are used instead of
not be as deep as those required for the water-in-dish proce- preferred sealants, a blank test run is suggested using glass or
dures. The desiccant is within 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) of the under metal as a dummy specimen.
surface, and a minimum depth of only 1⁄2 in. (12 mm) of X1.7.5 A suitable weighing cover consists of a circular disk
desiccant is required. of aluminum 1⁄32 to 3⁄32 in. (0.8 to 2.4 mm) in thickness
X1.7.2 The dishes shown in Fig. X1.2 require a molten seal. provided with a suitable knob in the center for lifting. The
X1.7.3 A template such as is shown in Fig. X1.3 is usually cover fits over the test specimen when assembled and makes
used for defining the test area and effecting the wax seal. It contact with the inside beveled surface of the wax seal at, or
consists of a circular metal dish 1⁄8in. (3.18 mm) or more in just above, the plane of the specimen. The cover is free of sharp
thickness with the edge beveled to an angle of about 45°. The edges which might remove the wax and is numbered or
diameter of the bottom (smaller) face of the template is otherwise identified to facilitate its exclusive use with the same
approximately equal to, but not greater than, the diameter of dish.

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