Developing a methodology of testing permeation of organic chemical substances during their multiple action on a protective material

The task consisted in developing a methodology of testing resistance of protective barrier materials used in producing protective clothing and gloves to permeation of organic solvents during their multiple action on a protective material. The principles for the method of testing resistance of barrier materials to permeation by volatile organic substances in multiple action that resembles actual exposure in the working environment to a greater degree than continuous exposure, were developed with consideration for the recommendations of standard PN-EN 6529:2005. That standard was verified in recent years following work by CEN/TC Committee 162. This methodology was the basis for developing part of the testing procedure regarding testing permeation of organic solvents by protective materials undergoing multiple exposure to chemical substances. Moreover, an already existing test stand for testing resistance of barrier materials to permeation by chemical substances undergoing constant exposure was adapted. Instructions for checking the test stand were also developed as were instructions for estimating the uncertainty of measurements. On the basis of the tests that were carried out, it was shown that the way a solvent is in contact with a material that is a protective barrier has a significant influence on the protective properties of that material.