LCS Laboratory offers kinetic study of polymer off-gassing rate. This article describes 1 of 3 tests that we offer for Polymer Off-Gassing studies. General description of the process provided in different article, along with links to other available tests. Here we discuss a basic procedure: Screening test for kinetic of emission of Total Volatile Organic Compounds by polymers (TVOC-PID).
Off-gassing screening. Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC-PID).
This test is designed to evaluate emission rate of TVOC from a sample at isothermal conditions. Results can be used to measure kinetics (dynamic) of off- gassing as a function of time.
In this test, a sample is placed is stainless steel or glass vessel and purged with solvent-free-air at constant flow-rate. VOC concentration is measured by in-line Photo Ionization Detector (PID). LCS Laboratory offers 6, 30, and 55 hour tests. The test is performed at normal or elevated temperature. Relative humidity of the test air in contact with sample can be varied from 0% to ambient, and up to 80% RH. The sample can be tested in its commercial form or as a dust.
Laboratory presents results as VOC concentration in air (headspace) as function of time and recalculates results as emission rate in mg of VOC produced per kg of sample per hour – mg/kg/hr.
PROS. Fast and affordable procedure to measure TVOC emission rate with sensitivity of about 0.05 mg/hr.
CONS. Results are semi-quantitative. Some organic compounds, like light alcohols, formaldehyde, and low molecular weight hydrocarbons (methane – butane) cannot be detected using PID.
To explore other testing procedures used for polymer off-gassing, please visit the summary page.
If you want to discuss this procedure or suggest your own testing protocol, please email us for a free, no obligation quote.
