A Simple Permeation Test Cell for Dual Application

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a simple and inexpensive permeation test cell for dual application with test samples that were either flat films or preformed articles. The two-chamber cell was designed in accordance with isostatic principles. The shallow lower chamber was equipped with a carrier-gas inlet apparatus and a sample-fixing tool. There were two different types of upper chamber; one for flat films and the other for preformed packages. The important features of this cell were the designs of chambers, the fixture tool and the gas flow configuration. The fixture tool was adjustable to fix preformed samples of different sizes and shapes. Gas flow configuration in the system was controlled by 3 three-way valves and 2 flow-control valves. The arrangement of these valves was crucial to the system. Oxygen transmission rates determined using this permeation cell were 8,732±201, 4,363±28 and 1,668±111 cm³/m².day.atm for LLDPE 20 μm, CPP 25 μm and an unknown film 50 μm, respectively. A PE bottle 325 ml, thickness 1.260 mm; a PE bottle 250 cm³, thickness 0.475 mm and a PE cup 250 cm³, thickness 0.320 mm had values of 2.36±0.096, 1.95±0.07 and 3.20±0.18 cm³/pk.day.atm, respectively. These values corresponded well with those measured using a commercial apparatus available in laboratories.