ASTM D2684/D2684M Standard Test Method for Permeability of Thermoplastic Containers to Packaged Reagents or Proprietary Products

Get Certified ASTM D2684/D2684M Testing for Reliable Thermoplastic Container Performance

Packaged products should not leak from thermoplastic containers during storage. Thus, permeability testing assists manufacturers in checking the performance of the container material and design under specific exposure conditions. ASTM D2684 testing can be used to assist in the development, research, and specification of containers. Care needs to be taken, and with experience, the results can be used to estimate the loss of the product through the container wall during shelf storage.

• Tests the permeability of thermoplastic containers.
• Tests containers for exposure conditions. 
• Presents normal and elevated temperature storage conditions
• Applies to containers intended for positive closure and that should be leakproof.
• Describes how to create a standard container design (Procedure A).
• Supplies Procedure B for other types of containers. 
• Calculates weight loss or weight gain. 
• Computes a permeability factor for Procedure A.
• Supports container development, specification, and research uses.

What are the Uses of ASTM D2684/D2684M Testing?

ASTM D2684 testing assesses the permeability properties of thermoplastic containers with packaged products. Manufacturers can use the data to research container materials, designs, and storage performance. This standard:

• Assists in estimating loss of packaged products during storage on the shelf.
• Supports the separation of the effects of container design and materials.
• Helps with packaging development and research.
• Supplies information to meet specification requirements.
• Calculates the weight gain or loss rate.
• Gives a permeability factor for Procedure A.
• Permits the testing of various container designs according to the appropriate procedure.

Which Containers Can Be Tested Under ASTM D2684/D2684M?

ASTM D2684 is used to evaluate thermoplastic containers that can be positively and leakproof closed. The test measures the permeability of these containers to packaged reagents or proprietary products during defined exposure conditions. The standard distinguishes between one standard container design tested with Procedure A and any other container design tested with Procedure B. This means the laboratory must determine the container design first, then choose the appropriate test procedure.

Why is ASTM D2684/D2684M Important?

ASTM D2684 helps determine how much packaged material could be lost through a thermoplastic container under specific test conditions. It provides producers with important information on how container material and design may affect product loss during storage. The test results can inform parameter settings, product research, and container development. However, because variables such as product composition, solving rate, and chemical interaction with the plastic may affect container performance, results should be interpreted with caution. Therefore, there should be enough evidence to support the application of test results outside of the original test conditions.

                                                                                    ASTM D2684 Testing Process and Data Collection

Technicians first place the packaged reagent or proprietary product under test in representative thermoplastic containers. They then prepare and pack the containers according to the relevant regulations and subject them to the designated storage conditions. Technicians monitor variations in container weight and document their findings. The permeability factor is also calculated using the data under Procedure A.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

Accurate results require precise weight measurements, controlled exposure conditions, reliable packaging, and proper container preparation. Weight fluctuations and container permeability assessments may be affected by issues with the container closure. Analyzing outcomes outside of test conditions is another crucial factor. Because product modification, solvency, or chemical impacts on the plastic can impact performance, ASTM does not advise extrapolation or correlation to other situations without sufficient supporting data.

• ASTM D2684 determines the rate of weight gain or loss.
• Procedure A also provides a permeability factor.
• For the specific container under test, Procedure B delivers permeability data as the rate of weight gain or loss.
• The outcomes can be used to assess the effects of container design and materials.
• With suitable safeguards and supporting expertise, the results can help estimate packaged-product loss during shelf storage.
• Without sufficient supporting information, results shouldn’t be automatically generalized to circumstances outside of the test.

What Factors Should You Consider for ASTM D2684/D2684M Testing?

Consider the following factors when choosing a laboratory for this testing.

• Expertise: Qualified personnel should understand thermoplastic container testing, specimen preparation, exposure conditions, weight measurements, and the relevant process.
• Speed: The necessary exposure conditions and project specifications determine how long testing will take.
• Cost: The quantity and kind of containers, exposure needs, measurements, and reporting requirements all affect testing expenses.
• Confidentiality: Throughout the testing procedure, Matestlab upholds confidentiality, and the outcomes are carefully shared with the relevant parties.

Link to ASTM D2684