Autor: Karsten Schröder

  • How tight is tight?

    How tight is tight?

    Permeation measurements – for safe, sustainable and high-performance packaging 

    Packaging protects products – however, how well this actually works can only be determined and proven by precise measurements.
    A key criterion here is permeation: i.e. the passage of gases, water vapour or flavourings through a packaging material and the entire packaging.
    At Innoform Test Service, we carry out over 1,000 permeation measurements on packaging, films and composites. This data forms the basis for product protection, shelf life and sustainability – and is therefore crucial to the success of modern packaging solutions. This measurement is becoming increasingly important for manufacturers and packagers, especially regarding the switch to mono-material packaging.

    What is a permeation measurement? 

    The term permeation describes the transport of molecules through a solid barrier – in our case, through packaging film, laminate or coating. 
    Even the most tightly sealed packaging is never completely impermeable: gases and vapours constantly migrate, even though at very different speeds – depending on the material, thickness, temperature and humidity. 

    A permeation measurement is used to determine precisely how much and how quickly a substance diffuses through a material. The results are given as transmission rates, usually in cm³/(m²·d·bar) for gases or g/(m²·d) for water vapour.

    Why permeation is so important for packaging 

    Barrier properties determine how long a product stays fresh, how stable it is during storage and how safely it reaches the end customer. This also prevents food spoilage.

    A few typical examples:

    • Oxygen can cause food to oxidise – for example, it can make fats rancid or change colours.
    • Water vapour can cause powder to clump together or tablets to swell.
    • Flavourings can degas, causing the product to lose flavour and quality.

    Therefore, permeation measurement in packaging is essential in order to: 

    • Select materials in a targeted manner,
    • optimise barrier layers
    • and evaluate new, recyclable monomaterials.

    Particularly in the context of sustainable packaging solutions, permeation data provides decisive evidence as to whether a material is environmentally friendly AND functional.

    How Innoform measures the barrier properties of films 

    Our Flexpack Laboratory in Oldenburg is specialised in permeation testing. We have state-of-the-art equipment and many years of experience with almost all packaging materials – from classic plastic composites to innovative paper-based solutions.

    The most common metrics are:

    Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) 

    The OTR measurement shows how much oxygen penetrates a packaging film. Measurements are usually taken at 23 °C and 50 % relative humidity in accordance with DIN 53380-3, ASTM D3985 or ISO 15105-2. 
    It is particularly relevant for foodstuffs and pharmaceutical products that are sensitive to oxidation. 

    Water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) 

    The WVTR measurement determines how much moisture diffuses through a film. Typical standards are ISO 15106-2, ISO 15106-3 and ASTM F1249. 
    This measurement is crucial for hygroscopic products such as powders, tablets or crispy snacks. 

    Further special measurements 

    Depending on requirements, we also carry out measurements for:

    • Carbon dioxide permeation (CO₂, e. g. in beverages or protective gas packaging)
    • Nitrogen or flavourings.

    All measurements are carried out under accredited conditions in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 – with maximum accuracy and traceability.

    From test sample to result – this is how the test works 

    1. Sample types: We test films, laminate sections, entire packages, parts of packages, bottles, closures, etc.
    2. Conditioning: Depending on the application, the temperature and humidity are set precisely (e. g. 23 °C / 50 % relative humidity). These settings are based on the storage conditions for the application and the contents.
    3. Measurement: The testing device continuously records the gas flow until a stable flow is achieved. This can take days or weeks.
    4. Evaluation: We calculate the permeation rate and document it in a detailed test report.

    This provides our customers with clear, comprehensible data – ideal for development decisions, quality assurance or comparative studies.

    Typical areas of application for permeation measurements 

    Permeation measurements are standard practice in many industries – wherever barrier properties determine product quality.

     Food packaging 

    Whether cheese, coffee or snacks: product protection depends directly on the barrier against oxygen and water vapour. We help to find the optimum balance between tightness and cost-effectiveness – and also test new sustainable film solutions.

     Pharmaceutical and medical technology 

    Blister packs, transdermal patches and diagnostic products require maximum impermeability. 
    Permeation measurements provide the data basis for product safety and approval documentation.

     Technical applications 

    Permeation also plays a role outside the food industry: for example, in solar cells, electronics or sensors that are sensitive to moisture.

    Focus on sustainability and recyclability 

    The packaging industry is undergoing change: sustainable and recyclable materials are becoming increasingly important. However, it is often a major challenge to combine barrier properties and recyclability. At Innoform, we therefore also test innovative single-material packaging, paper composites and bio-based films for their barrier properties. 
    Only objective measurements can determine whether a sustainable alternative is really suitable as a substitute for traditional composite films. 

    Our data helps manufacturers to combine ecological and functional requirements – a key component of modern packaging development.

    Advantages at a glance 

    With decades of experience in packaging testing, Innoform is your expert partner for all questions relating to permeation, material testing and quality assurance.

    Our special features:

    • State-of-the-art measuring devices for OTR, WVTR and more
    • Accredited tests in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025
    • Experience with all common standards and materials
    • Fast, reliable results with practical interpretation
    • Advice from experienced packaging and materials experts

    This means that you not only receive figures, but also clear statements and data that you can use directly in your product development. We often classify the values together with our customers and guide them through the next steps in our service package.

    Conclusion: Without permeation measurement, there is no safe packaging 

    Permeation measurements are the key to developing, comparing and improving packaging in a targeted manner. Reproducible, accredited values create transparency – and thus form the basis for quality, product protection and sustainability.

    With state-of-the-art measurement technology, scientific precision and a passion for packaging, Innoform ensures that products are and remain optimally protected.

    Would you like to learn more about permeation measurements or have your packaging materials tested? 
    Contact us: www.innoform-testservice.de – or feel free to call Matthias Böhne on +49 94986-11. 

    And here is a tip for developers and curious minds. Try out our free!

    permeation calculator
  • Excellent performance in the interlaboratory test for determining water content according to ISO 15512

    Excellent performance in the interlaboratory test for determining water content according to ISO 15512

    Innoform Testservice GmbH successfully participated in the interlaboratory test for determining the water content in plastics according to ISO 15512, receiving an overall rating of “excellent performance”. This result underlines the high quality and precision of our laboratory work and the commitment of our team to achieving reliable and traceable test results.

    Why determining water content is so important

    The water content plays a decisive role in plastics technology, especially in hygroscopic materials such as polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), PET, but also in all types of recycled materials. Even slight deviations in moisture content can significantly affect the processability, mechanical properties and even the long-term stability of a plastic.

    Therefore, in practice, the precise determination of water content is of central importance for both raw material manufacturers and processors and users. It serves as a quality control measure in incoming material inspections, process monitoring and damage analysis.

    The ISO 15512 standard – precision in moisture analysis

    The ISO 15512 standard describes various methods for determining the water content in plastics. Depending on the material and accuracy requirements, gravimetric or chemical methods are used – for example, Karl Fischer titration or drying methods.

    The aim is to accurately quantify the actual content of bound and free water in the material. These results form the basis for reliable quality decisions along the entire value chain.

    Interlaboratory test as quality assurance

    Interlaboratory tests serve as external quality assurance and enable laboratories to evaluate their measurement competence in comparison with other institutions. Through its successful participation and the rating ‘excellent performance’, Innoform once again confirms the high reproducibility and accuracy of its measurement results.

    Outlook: Acceptance as an accredited examination

    Due to successful participation and thorough internal validation, the inclusion of water content determination in accordance with ISO 15512 in Innoform’ s accredited testing area is planned for the coming cycle. This means that this method will be officially offered and documented within the scope of our DAkkS accreditation in future.

    This expansion strengthens our testing portfolio and underlines our commitment to offering our customers precise, standard-compliant and accredited testing procedures from a single source.

    Conclusion:

    Determining water content is a key component of quality assurance for plastics. The excellent performance in the interlaboratory test shows that Innoform also meets the highest standards in this demanding test area – and will further consolidate these in future with accreditation.

    Author: Dr Daniel Wachtendorf, Innoform GmbH, August 2025

  • Plastics in paper packaging Part 3

    Plastics in paper packaging Part 3

    Regulatory requirements, environment and waste disposal

    Paper packaging is considered a sustainable alternative to plastic – but as soon as a plastic coating comes into play, the ecological balance becomes complex. The first two parts of our series examined the function of plastic layers in paper packaging (part 1) and specific plastics and alternatives (part 2). The third and final part of our series deals with the legal framework and environmental aspects that are crucial for paper-based packaging containing plastic. Particular focus is on the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), which has a significant impact on the use of plastic in paper products. In addition, we consider issues of recyclability, disposal and regulatory interfaces with food contact and chemicals legislation.

    The Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) – Significance for coated paper products

    Definition and objectives

    With Directive (EU) 2019/904, better known as the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), the European Union is pursuing the goal of reducing the impact of certain plastic products on the environment – especially on oceans and beaches. This applies not only to “conventional” plastic articles, but also explicitly to fibre-based products with plastic coating or lining.

    This means that a paper cup with a PE or PLA coating, a coated paper plate or a takeaway cup lid made of paper with plastic film is legally considered a plastic product under the SUPD. The directive thus sets a clear framework: even small amounts of plastic can significantly change the character of a paper product – both from a regulatory and an environmental perspective.

    Consequences for manufacturers and distributors

    For companies, this entails considerable obligations:

    • Labelling requirement: Since 2021, many paper products containing plastic must carry the “contains plastic” label (the so-called turtle symbol). This is intended to alert consumers that the product contains plastic and is not biodegradable.
    • Extended producer responsibility: In future, producers will be obliged to contribute proportionally to the costs of cleaning public areas and disposing of waste from their products.
    • Restrictions on use and alternative obligations: For some product categories (e. g. disposable packaging in the takeaway sector), plastic content will only be permitted to a limited extent in future – alternative materials or reusable options will be promoted politically.

    The SUPD has thus had a major impact on market dynamics for paper-based packaging: the trend is towards uncoated or low-polymer papers, water-based dispersion coatings or bio-based, more easily degradable systems.

    Delimitation: When is a product considered to be “plastic”?

    The SUPD defines plastic as “a material consisting of a polymer to which additives or other substances have been added and which serves as the main structural component”. For paper-based packaging, this means that if the plastic layer is functional and not purely visual – i. e. if it acts as a barrier, for example – the entire packaging falls under the directive. This definition primarily applies to:

    • PE, PP, PET and EVOH coatings,
    • bio-based plastics such as PLA or PBS.

    This creates an important incentive for innovation in the field of polymer-free coating systems.

    Further regulatory references

    Even though the focus is primarily on SUPD, other legal frameworks may also be relevant for coated paper products:

    • Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 – regulates the use of plastics in contact with food. Plastic coatings on the food contact side must be tested for migration and may only contain approved substances. In certain cases, this can also be applied to paper/plastic composites.
    • REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 – concerns chemicals and additives in plastic coatings (e. g. plasticisers, PFAS, bonding agents). Substances of very high concern may be restricted or prohibited.
    • Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) – requires packaging to be designed for recycling (“design for recycling”) and the waste hierarchy (prevention > reuse > recycling > recovery) to be observed.

    In practice, these regulations overlap. The SUPD defines the product category, while EU 10/2011 and REACH ensure material compliance.

    Environmental aspects: Plastic coatings between function and problem

    Recyclability and material separation

    Plastic coatings are technically indispensable for many applications – they protect against moisture, grease and aromas and ensure sealability. However, it is precisely this functionality that causes problems in the recycling process. Paper mills can only efficiently recycle the fibre content of coated papers if the plastic content is thin, homogeneous and easily removable. Thick or complex composite structures (e. g. PE-laminated papers or multi-layer barrier composites) result in high residual material content, which must be recycled for energy.

    In Germany, the so-called 5 per cent rule is often applied: if the plastic content exceeds 5 per cent of the total weight, the product may not be disposed of via waste paper recycling, but must be placed in the packaging recycling stream (“yellow bag”).

    Microplastics and degradation behaviour

    When coated paper ends up in the environment, the paper portion decomposes relatively quickly – but the plastic coating remains. This results in microplastic particles that are difficult or impossible to break down. Even compostable coatings (e. g. PLA or PHB) require industrial conditions with high temperatures to decompose completely. In home compost or natural environmental conditions, they usually only decompose partially.

    Energy recovery and life cycle

    If recycling is not technically or economically feasible, plastic components from paper composites are usually thermally recycled. Although this process generates energy, it also releases CO₂, and the material cycle remains incomplete. From an environmental point of view, materials are best when they can be recycled – i. e. returned to the recycling process. Thin, single-layer or water-soluble coating systems are particularly promising in this regard.

    Conclusion

    The Single-Use Plastics Directive has led to a lasting change in the packaging industry. It has made it clear that paper products containing plastic are not pure paper products.
    Although plastic coatings fulfil important technical functions, they complicate recycling, impede disposal and bring manufacturers within the scope of plastics regulation. The challenge now is to maintain functional coatings without increasing the environmental impact. This can be achieved through material innovation, recycling design and early consideration of the requirements of the SUPD – because this is the only way to ensure that paper-based packaging remain legally compliant, technically feasible and ecologically sustainable in the long term.

    Author: Dr. Daniel Wachtendorf, Innoform GmbH, October 2025

  • Primary aromatic amines (PAA) – New discussions on the detection limit

    Primary aromatic amines (PAA) – New discussions on the detection limit

    Origin and risks

    Primary aromatic amines often occur as impurities or degradation products in dyes (e.g. azo pigments). They can also be formed by hydrolysis from isocyanates in polyurethane adhesives or other PU systems. Some PAAs are considered carcinogenic or mutagenic, which is why their migration into food is problematic.

    Measurement / Analysis

    3% acetic acid or water is often used as a simulant for migration testing. Recent studies show that some paA are unstable in acetic acid under standard conditions, while they remain more stable in water. However, the influence of the simulant on protonation (relevant, for example, in paA from laminating adhesives) has often not yet been sufficiently researched.

    Liquid chromatography is usually used to analyse the migrants:

    • High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD)
    • High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS)

    The photometric summation method (Section 64 LFGB, method L 00.00-6) is still used in some areas of industry, but it can only be used to provide a rough estimate of compliance with the sum limit of 0.01 mg/kg and is not suitable for conformity testing because it does not provide sufficient recovery for all possible amines.

    Regulatory requirements and assessments

    Various regulations (e.g. Plastics Regulation, Commodities Regulation and BfR recommendations) contain similar provisions:

    • Primary aromatic amines that are considered carcinogenic (CLP category 1A/1B) must be undetectable if no specific migration limit (SML) exists.
    • According to Article 11(4) of the Plastics Regulation (EU) No 10/2011, a detection limit of 0.002 mg/kg per individual substance applies to such paA.
    • The sum of unlisted and non-carcinogenic paA must not exceed 0.01 mg/kg.

    The BfR recommends applying the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

    Planned adjustment & discussion

    The minutes of the 34th meeting of the BfR Commission for Commodities document that the BfR plans to include a new footnote in its recommendations: For carcinogenic paA, a transition above 0.15 µg/kg food should not be detectable. At the same time, the maximum permissible detection limit is to remain at 2 µg/kg food.

    It follows that measured values above 0.15 µg/kg would be considered unacceptable/non-compliant.

    The reason given is that some laboratories can achieve detection limits lower than the current detection limit of 2 ppb. The handling of measurement uncertainty, analytical implementations and, if necessary, gradual approximations to the target value of 0.15 µg/kg food must be examined and implemented in detailed concepts.

    If you have any questions, please contact fcm@innoform.de. We will be happy to provide you with a quote for the determination of primary aromatic amines.

    You can find examinations on paA here.

    Check for paA

    An article by Heike Schwertke

  • Declaration of Conformity Checklist

    Declaration of Conformity Checklist

    How to ensure that your food contact materials comply with EU regulations

    The declaration of conformity is a key document that confirms that a product meets the EU’s basic requirements for materials that come into contact with food. But how can you ensure that the information it contains is complete, accurate and up to date?

    Compliance with EU requirements – in particular Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 – can only be guaranteed if relevant information is exchanged transparently between suppliers and customers throughout the entire supply chain. The information provided must be clear and precise and refer to the actual composition of the material. This is precisely where our revised checklist for declarations of conformity comes into play.

    What is new?

    Following the 19th amendment to Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 by Regulation (EU) 2025/351, we have comprehensively updated our checklist for reviewing declarations of conformity. It helps you to systematically check your documentation for completeness and compliance with Annex IV of the Regulation. The information must be clear and precise and refer to the actual composition of the material.

    What does the checklist offer?

    • A structured overview of all required information in accordance with Annex IV
    • Additional notes on conformity assessment
    • Support in identifying gaps or delegated tasks
    • A new section for reviewing information on bisphenol A in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2024/3190

    This checklist for declarations of conformity provides you with a practical tool for efficiently reviewing your declarations of conformity and taking any necessary measures.

    You can request the checklist free of charge at fcm@innoform.de.

    The template is available in German and English – please indicate your preferred language when submitting your inquiry.

  • Plastics in paper packaging

    Plastics in paper packaging

    Part 1: Overview for food and consumer goods

    Reasons for plastic content in paper packaging

    Paper alone does not offer all the properties required for the protection and shelf life of packaged goods. Without a chemical or plastic-based coating, paper/cardboard cannot fulfil many packaging functions – especially in direct contact with food. For this reason, paper is often provided with a thin layer of plastic that serves as a functional barrier. Typical reasons for the use of plastic components are

    • Moisture and liquid protection: Paper is naturally permeable to water and water vapour. A plastic coating, on the other hand, makes the packaging resistant to water, moisture and liquids so that, for example, no water or water vapour can penetrate. This prevents the paper from softening or becoming soggy – for example with frozen food packaging or cups for hot drinks.
    • Fat and oil barrier: Foods with a high fat content (fast food, baked goods, snacks) require a fat-repellent inner coating. Plastic layers prevent the packaging from becoming greasy. Without this barrier, oils and fats would penetrate the paper and make it soggy or unsightly.
    • Gas and flavour protection: Many foods need to be protected from oxygen, carbon dioxide or other gases to ensure a long shelf life. Paper is permeable to gases, so a plastic with very low permeability is often used. For example, special polymers provide almost impermeable oxygen and flavour protection so that the flavour of coffee is retained in paper-based coffee packaging and no air penetrates from the outside.
    • Hygiene and product safety: A continuous plastic layer on the inside can serve as a safe contact surface with the food. It prevents fibres or particles of the paper from getting into the food and can thus ensure sensory neutrality (no foreign odour or taste). In addition, such layers can act as a functional barrier that reduces the transfer of undesirable substances (e.g. printing inks from the paper) into the food.
    • Sealability (sealing): Many types of packaging – bags, coated paper films, to-go cup lids, etc. – must be thermally sealed to ensure a tight seal. Pure paper cannot simply be welded. The plastic component, on the other hand, is weldable, i.e. it melts when heated and thus enables stable sealing seams. Without the plastic component, coffee cups, for example, could not be sealed tightly with lids and paper bags could not be sealed automatically.
    • Mechanical stability: In some cases, the plastic content also contributes to the tear resistance and stabilisation of the composite material. The plastic layer can reinforce the paper and make it less susceptible to tears, punctures or mechanical stress – important for heavy or pointed packaged goods, for example.

    To summarise, thin plastic layers make it possible to give paper-based packaging similar protective properties to pure plastic packaging without losing the outward appearance of “cardboard/paper”. Moisture, grease, gases and germs are kept out and the packaging remains stable and sealable, which is crucial for ensuring product quality and shelf life. Studies typically put the plastic content of such functionalised paper packaging at up to around 10-20% by weight of the total packaging – a seemingly small proportion, but one that has a major impact on the performance of the packaging.

    If you would like to know how the plastic content is tested and categorised, please subscribe to our newsletter – updates will follow.

    Author: Dr Daniel Wachtendorf, Innoform GmbH August 2025

  • Standardised quality standards for PE and PP plastic recyclates

    Standardised quality standards for PE and PP plastic recyclates

    The increasing importance of plastic recyclates in the circular economy requires clear and comprehensible quality standards. This is precisely where the standards DIN EN ISO 15344 and DIN EN ISO 15345 come in. They deal with the characterisation of recyclates made from polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) and create a reliable basis for communication and quality assurance between suppliers and customers.

    by Dr Daniel Wachtendorf

    Standardised basis for quality assurance

    The two standards aim to facilitate standardised agreements – in particular by defining mandatory properties that are required to describe a plastic recyclate. These include, among others:

    • Density
    • Melt flow rate (MFR )

    These basic parameters provide important information about the processability and application of the recyclates, but are of course far from sufficient to adequately characterise the quality.

    Optional tests – a useful addition to the basic specification

    In addition to the mandatory parameters, the standards also list a series of optional tests that can be used as a supplement depending on the application. In practice, we recommend including certain additional tests in the specification in order to ensure quality in the long term and recognise fluctuations at an early stage.

    Recommended optional examinations include:

    • Residual moisture
    • Determination of foreign polymers
    • Ash content
      • Mechanical characteristics, e.g.
        • Elongation at break
        • Maximum tensile strength

      Extended parameters for specific requirements

      In addition to the properties defined in the standards, other test parameters can be highly relevant depending on the application – especially in the area of packaging with food contact or technical applications. These include, for example

      • Screening for potentially genotoxic substances
      • Sensory testing (odour )
      • Colour location measurement of the granulate

      These extended tests enable a more precise assessment of the recyclate’s suitability for sensitive areas of application and help to minimise risk.

      Why a specification is essential – outlook for the PPWR

      When the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) comes into force in August 2026, the use of recyclate in packaging will become mandatory. This legal change will significantly increase the demand for recycled plastics.

      As a result, material bottlenecks and the associated fluctuations in material quality are to be expected – especially if no clear requirements are defined for the recyclate. A clear specification based on the aforementioned standards helps to ensure quality, minimise risks and establish stable long-term supply relationships.

      You can order our general film specification template here free of charge by e-mail.

      Request a free specification template

      Early data collection creates advantages

      Early and comprehensive data collection on material quality not only creates transparency regarding the recycled materials used, but also facilitates the targeted search for suppliers. It also enables an open exchange with existing suppliers, for example in the further development of materials or the optimisation of supply relationships.

      Innoform – Your partner for plastics analysis

      The above-mentioned tests can be carried out at Innoform. As a competent partner in plastics analysis, we support you in the selection of suitable test methods and are happy to advise you when it comes to implementing a standard-compliant and future-proof specification.

      Contact us – we will help you to use recyclates safely and efficiently. Phone: 0441 94986-22 or TS@innoform.de

    • Practical testing of water vapour permeability – which method makes sense when

      Practical testing of water vapour permeability – which method makes sense when

      Practical testing of water vapour permeability – which method makes sense when

      The Water / Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (WVTR) is a key parameter for the durability, functionality and sustainability of flexible packaging. Innoform Testservice offers three recognised laboratory methods that together cover the entire practical range from breathable bags to high-barrier films. Below you can find out which test principle has proven itself in which application scenarios.

      1 Electrolytic / hydrolysis sensor (ISO 15106-3)

      Standards: DIN EN ISO 15106-3
      Area of application:

      • High-barrier films, metallised or inorganically coated structures
      • WVTR from 0.01 g – m-² – d-¹ to approx. 100 g – m-² – d-¹
      • Moulded packaging (pouches, bottles, pharmaceutical primary packaging)

      Why choose?
      The phosphorus pentoxide (or calcium chloride) sensor system decomposes incoming water vapour electrolytically; the required current is directly proportional to the permeate. As a result, the method achieves very low detection limits and is suitable for premium barrier and shelf-life studies. Innoform offers the same technology for both flat films and complete packaging chambers.

      2 Modulated infrared sensor (ASTM F 1249 / ISO 15106-2)

      Normen: ASTM F 1249, DIN EN ISO 15106-2
      Einsatzbereich:

      • Typical packaging barriers (≈ 0.05 – 50 g – m-² – d-¹)
      • Fast incoming goods and process control (results ≤ 2 h)
      • Temperature and RH-controlled tests for validation studies

      Why choose?
      A modulated infrared detector measures the water vapour absorption in the carrier gas behind the sample. The method delivers reproducible results with short analysis times and automatic climate control – ideal for series testing and comparative material benchmarking.

      3 Gravimetric cup method

      Standards: DIN 53122-1, DIN EN ISO 12572, ASTM E 96
      Area of application:

      • Medium to high WVTR values (≈ 1 – 1000 g – m-² – d-¹)
      • Straight, flat samples ≥ 50 cm²
      • Quality control for standard laminates, paper/plastic composites, breathable construction films

      Why choose?
      The cup method is robust, inexpensive and widely recognised in standards. It measures the actual mass loss and is therefore ideal as a reference or for comparative measurements between laboratories. The disadvantages are longer measurement times (hours to days) and limited sensitivity for high-quality barrier films.

      4 Decision-making aid at a glance

      RequirementTypical WVTRSampleRecommended Innoform methodComment
      Budget-friendly reference, standard-compliant> 0,5 g · m⁻² · d⁻¹≥ DIN A5 filmCup gravimetricslow, very robust
      Fast QC measurement in production0,05 – 50Foil or flat moulded partIR sensorResultate ≤ 2 h
      High barrier, food/pharmaceuticals0,01 – 0,05Foil or packElectrolyticHighest sensitivity

      5 Practical recommendations

      1. Sample conditioning – at least 24 h under test climate to harmonise moisture gradients.
      2. Double measurement – Innoform carries out two determinations as standard in order to recognise outliers at an early stage.
      3. Order reference foils at the same time – have a known barrier tested once a year; this way you can keep an eye on the calibration in the long term.
      4. Select test climate – typically 23 °C / 85 % rH for food packaging, 38 °C / 90 % rH for tropical simulation.

      Complete table of WVTR test methods for films & packaging

      Test methodImportant standardsTypical WVTR range (g – m-² – d-¹)Special featuresInnoform
      for Flexpack usual
      Gravimetric (cup: dry / wet)DIN 53122-1, ASTM E 96, ISO 125720,5 – 1000favourable, reference✔
      Capacitive humidity sensorISO 15106-10,05 – 1000fast QC, medium sensitivity✖
      Modulated IR sensorASTM F 1249, ISO 15106-20,02 – 100automated, ±2 h Result✔
      Electrolytic / hydrolysis sensorISO 15106-3, ASTM F 26220,005 – 0,05High barrier, moulded packs✔
      Calcium corrosion test(R&D, DIN SPEC in progress)- (R&D, DIN SPEC in progress)10⁻⁴ – 10⁻⁶Ultra-OLED barriers✖
      Optical-electrical hybrid calcium–< 10⁻⁶Combined measurement for photovoltaics✖

      Summary
      Whether standard laminate or high-tech barrier layer: Innoform’s gravimetric, IR and electrolytic processes cover practically every WVTR window of practical relevance. The choice depends on your target WVTR, the time window and the sample geometry – and ultimately determines how reliable your shelf life and process data are.

      You can find the Innoform tests and contact persons here:

      WVTR Prüfungen
    • 19th Amendment of the Plastics Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011

      19th Amendment of the Plastics Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011

      New regulations for plastics in food contact by Regulation (EU) 2025/351 have been published.

      Important amendments to the EU regulations on plastic food contact materials are presented here. These include amendments to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011, amendments to Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 on recycled plastics and amendments to Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006 on good manufacturing practice.

      Important clarifications concern the definitions and requirements for plastics, the introduction of “UVCB substances”, purity requirements, regulations on reprocessing and recycling, new labelling regulations and extended declarations of conformity. In addition, rules on conformity testing and transition periods are specified.

      1. Amendments to existing regulations:
        • Amendments to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 on plastic materials and articles that come into contact with food.
        • Amendments to Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 on recycled plastics and repeal of Regulation (EC) No 282/2008.
        • Amendments to Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006 on good manufacturing practice.
      1. Clarifications and precisions:
        • Definitions and requirements for the composition of plastics have been specified.
        • Introduction of the term “UVCB substances” (substances with unknown or variable composition).
        • Extent and nature of evidence to demonstrate compliance and composition of starting materials at each stage of the manufacturing process
      1. Purity requirements:
        • Specification of high purity levels for substances used in the manufacture of food contact materials.
        • Specific regulations for the purity of substances of natural origin.
      2. Reprocessing and recycling:
        • Regulations for the reprocessing of plastic by-products.
        • Requirements for quality assurance systems in recycling plants.
      3. Labelling and declaration of conformity:
        • New labelling regulations for reusable food contact materials.
        • Extended requirements for the declaration of compliance, including information on not intentionally added substances (NIAS)
      4. Examinations
        • Rules on conformity testing and assessment of compliance with limit values clarified
        • Criteria for assessing the stability of reusable materials and objects
      5. Transition periods:
        • 18 months first placing on the market
        • 9 months before the end of the transition period, information of the customer if the requirements have not yet been met.

      You can find the regulation here: Regulation – EU – 2025/351 – EN – EUR-Lex

      Contact: Heike Schwertke

    • Innoform Online Consulting is out!

      Innoform Online Consulting is out!

      Discover our new online consulting service from Innoform Test Service!

      We are delighted to present our new online consulting service at Innoform Testservice! With this innovative service, we offer you the opportunity to access our expertise conveniently and flexibly from anywhere.

      What is the Innoform Testservice?

      Innoform Testservice is a recognised testing service provider for flexible packaging made of paper and plastic, with a special focus on the food industry, packaging manufacturers and their suppliers as well as the trade. Our modern equipment and our comprehensive knowledge of food regulations and flexpack requirements enable us to provide you with precise answers to your questions, such as

      • Food contact (conformity testing, migration tests, etc.)
      • Material characterisation (type, properties, permeation, etc.)
      • Recyclates (quality, suitability, contamination)

      Our test results and assessments are recognised by manufacturers and users of paper and plastic packaging alike and help to assess and avoid risks.

      Our new online consulting service

      With our new online consulting service, you can now get in touch with our experts directly and discuss your questions and concerns about packaging testing and optimisation. Whether you need support in selecting the right packaging material or you have specific questions about our test methods – we are here for you!

      And all without any risk. Because if you come to the conclusion that we were unable to help you sufficiently in the team meeting, there are no costs involved.

      How can you book a consulting appointment?

      Booking a consulting appointment is easy! Use our online booking service and book the next available slot directly with our experts. Our online tool shows you all available dates and automatically creates an invitation for MS teams. You do not need to be familiar with MS Teams, all you need is a browser, a microphone and speakers, which should be available everywhere these days. So here we go.

      Make an appointment

      We look forward to being able to assist you even better, faster and more competently with our new online consulting service and to answering your testing and packaging questions. Do not hesitate to contact us and benefit from our expertise!