ASTM D1653 Water Vapor Transmission of Organic Coating Films

Scope:

The water resistance characteristics of coatings are determined by the ASTM D1653 test method. This helps prevent material failure and leads to better quality production. The values of water vapor transfer through coatings help with specification acceptance, quality control, research, and development of coatings and materials. These values are for use in design, manufacture, and marketing

Procedure:

ASTM D1653 test method proceeds with sealing the test specimen to the open mouth of a cup or dish containing desiccant, and the assembly is put in a test chamber with a controlled atmosphere in Test Method A (Dry Cup Method). For this test procedure, two sets of exposure circumstances are permissible.

The test specimen is sealed to the open mouth of a cup or dish holding water in Test Method B (Wet Cup Method), and the assembly is put in a test chamber with a controlled atmosphere. For this test procedure, two sets of exposure circumstances are acceptable.

Periodic weighings of the cup or dish are performed in both ways to estimate the rate of water vapor passage through the item.

Specimen Size:

Specimen size should be as per the requirements. In this ASTM D1653 test, specimens should be smooth and completely continuous films of uniform thickness throughout the test area.

Data:

The Water Vapor Transmission rate, (WVT), can be calculated by applying the formula where: 

G = weight change, grains (from the straight line), 

t = time during which G occurred,

A = test area, and 

1 g = 15.43 grains.

Conclusion:

The ASTM D1653 test method is specifically important for the quality assurance and durability check of coatings. A detailed analysis is performed and the water vapor transfer rate is determined. The top service provider in this regard is the Infinita Lab which ensures efficient and reliable testing.