Formerly under the jurisdiction of Committee F02 on Primary Barrier Packaging, this test method was withdrawn in January 2018 and replaced by Test Methods D7709 on Measuring Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) of Pharmaceutical Bottles and Blisters.1

Test Method D3079 has no ILS data and a search within ASTM yields no data to justify the statements presented in the precision and bias sections. Additionally, Test Method D3079 is not written as thoroughly as Test Methods D7709. The scope of Test Methods D7709 mentions that it can be adapted for use with flexible pouches. As Test Methods D7709 contains a complete ILS, along with examples of calculations, users should look to this standard for a gravimetric method for the measurement of the WVTR of packages.

This test method determines the water vapor barrier properties of the package. With proper precautions and background experience, reproducible results can be obtained to aid in the selection of proper package materials required to provide the product shelf-life desired. This test method may be used to establish a performance specification.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the amount of water vapor transmission for flexible heat-sealed packages under specified conditions of exposure.

Note 1—Adequate heat-seal efficiency should be determined prior to this test method.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.