Measuring WVTR in ultra-high-barrier films

MOCON, Inc., manufacturer of package integrity instrumentation, is launching a new system to measure the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of ultra-high-barrier films with greater sensitivity than ever before possible. 

The new-generation AQUATRAN® Model 2 WVTR measurement instrument targets commercial or developmental ultra-high barrier structures being engineered to push the performance envelope. These include flexible films for organic light-emitting display (OLED), solar, and similar demanding applications, which require accurate and extremely sensitive instrumentation to build performance statistics.

The AQUATRAN Model 2 uses proprietary technology to accurately and repeatably measure WVTR down to 5x10-5 g/(m2-day). This is one order of magnitude lower than its very successful predecessor the Model 1, launched in 2005. 

The Model 2 uses propriety technology to increase sensor sensitivity and reduce the possibility of ambient humidity interfering with test results. Further, the AQUATRAN Model 2 is the only system available for measuring trace WVTR that is not calibration-dependent, providing more accurate and repeatable results.

The AQUATRAN Model 2 utilizes MOCON’s newest AquaTrace® Gold coulometric longer-life sensor, which is based on Faraday’s Law. Every water molecule entering the sensor is directly converted to a measureable charge. No calibration is necessary, assuring an accurate test result.

Transient data also is quantifiable and can be viewed during or after the test. (Analysis of transient data can yield important information about an OLED structure such as detecting defects and voids in the applied coatings.)

Additional enhancements to the AQUATRAN Model 2 include improved electronics, enhanced block and valve design, and the introduction of TruSeal™ technology, which reduces seal-edge leaks due to ambient humidity.

The AQUATRAN Model 2 is available in two versions. The G system operates between 35 and 90 percent relative humidity (RH) and a temperature range of 10 to 40 Centigrade. The W version offers 100% RH and a temperature range 10 to 50 Centigrade.