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1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determination of the steady-state rate of transmission of oxygen gas through plastics in the form of film, sheeting, laminates, coextrusions, or plastic-coated papers or fabrics. It provides for the determination of (1) oxygen gas transmission rate (O₂GTR), (2) the permeance of the film to oxygen gas (PO₂), and (3) oxygen permeability coefficient (P′O₂) in the case of homogeneous materials.

1.2 This test method does not purport to be the only method for measurement of O₂GTR. There may be other methods of O₂GTR determination that use other oxygen sensors and procedures.

1.3 This test method has intentionally been prepared to allow for the use of various sensors, devices, and procedures. The precision and bias of each design needs to be individually established to determine the applicability of that instrument or method to meet the needs of the user.

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

1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 The O₂GTR is an important determinant of the packaging protection afforded by barrier materials. It is not, however, the sole determinant, and additional tests, based on experience, must be used to correlate packaging performance with O₂GTR. It is suitable as a referee method of testing, provided that the purchaser and the seller have agreed on sampling procedures, standardization procedures, test conditions, and acceptance criteria.

5.2 Testing which has compared select instruments with other sensors to the instruments specifically described in Test Method D3985 is shown in Section 16, Precision and Bias, of this method.

5.3 The Precision and Bias section of this method shows results using several instruments with non-coulometric and coulometric sensors.