EN ISO 6179:2017 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 6179:2017 (ISO 6179:2017) specifies a gravimetric technique for determining the transmission rate of volatile liquids through rubber (vulcanized or thermoplastic) sheets and rubber‑coated fabrics. Adopted by CEN in August 2017, this standard defines two test methods (Method A and Method B) to measure permeability by weight loss and is intended for materials in sheet form with thicknesses from 0.2 mm to 3.0 mm. Results are expressed in grams per square metre per hour (g/m2·h) and the procedure applies to transmission rates greater than 0.1 g/m2·h.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and limits: Applies only to sheet materials and coated fabrics (0.2–3.0 mm); excludes water‑vapour testing (see ISO 2528).
• Two test methods:
  • Method A (with refilling) - for mixtures of liquids that evaporate at different rates.
  • Method B (no refilling) - for single‑component liquids.
• Gravimetric technique: Measures mass loss of a liquid reservoir behind the test piece; transmission rate calculated from mass change over area and time.
• Apparatus and accuracy:
  • Container assembly with inlet valve (60–100 cm3) and clamping device.
  • Balance with ≥200 g capacity and 1 mg readability.
  • Optional cabinet oven for elevated temperature tests.
• Test piece preparation: Circular specimens cut and conditioned per ISO 23529; thickness measured and documented.
• Calibration and quality: Calibration schedule provided (Annex A); references include ISO 188, ISO 2231, ISO 2286‑3, ISO 3310‑1.
• Test conditions: Specified temperature, duration, conditioning, and support (wire mesh for high rates or no fabric).

Applications and who uses it

• Quality control and acceptance testing in rubber and coated‑fabric manufacturing.
• Material selection and R&D to compare relative permeability of different rubbers or different liquids through one material.
• Industry sectors: automotive (hoses, seals), protective equipment (gloves, suits), hoses and gaskets, chemical containment, and any application where resistance to volatile solvents is critical.
• Users: test laboratories, QC engineers, product developers, procurement/specification writers, and conformity assessors.

Related standards

• ISO 2528 - water vapour transmission rate (different scope).
• ISO 23529 - preparation and conditioning of rubber test pieces.
• ISO 188, ISO 2231, ISO 2286‑3, ISO 3310‑1 - referenced for calibration, atmospheres, thickness measurement and test sieves.

EN ISO 6179:2017 is the authoritative method for gravimetric measurement of volatile‑liquid permeation through rubber sheets and rubber‑coated fabrics, providing a standardized basis for comparative testing, specification writing, and product compliance.