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D5052-18 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
The ASTM D5052-18 (Reapproved 2023) standard specifies a test method for measuring the permeability of leather to water vapor. This is essential for evaluating the comfort of leather in applications such as footwear and garments. The method involves determining the rate at which water vapor passes through a specimen under controlled conditions.
🔬 Test Method and Significance
This test method applies to all types of leathers except wet blue. It measures water vapor permeability by exposing one side of the specimen to moist air and the other to dry air, using a desiccant to maintain the gradient. The permeability is a key factor in the comfort of leather products, making this standard important for quality assessment. The test method is conducted under standards defined in Practice D1610 for conditioning.
⚠️ The standard specifies that inch-pound and SI values are not exact equivalents. Use each system independently to avoid nonconformance.
⚙️ Apparatus and Procedure
The required apparatus includes an analytical balance with 0.001 g accuracy, a permeability apparatus consisting of an aluminum cup and a template, a steel stamping die, a controlled chamber, and a fan. The chamber must maintain 23°C ± 1°C and 50% ± 4% relative humidity, with air flow of at least 550 ft/min ± 50 ft/min (2.79 m/s ± 0.25 m/s) over the apparatus.
| 🟦 Component | 📏 Specification |
|---|---|
| Template Thickness | 1/8 in |
| Template Diameter | 2.225 in ± 0.025 in (area: 25 cm²) |
| Steel Die Diameter | 2.75 in ± 0.1 in |
| Chamber Temperature | 23°C ± 1°C |
| Chamber Humidity | 50% ± 4% RH |
| Fan Airflow | ≥ 550 ft/min (2.79 m/s) |
The procedure involves conditioning specimens per Practice D1610. The aluminum cup is filled with fresh 8 mesh anhydrous calcium chloride desiccant to a height of 1/8 in to 1/4 in (3.2 mm to 6.4 mm) below the rim. The specimen is placed with the grain side up, and the cup is sealed using microcrystalline wax with a melting point of 70°C or lower. After each weighing, the cup must be shaken to mix the desiccant.
💡 Tip: Regular mixing of the desiccant is crucial for accurate results. Shake the cup after each weighing to ensure consistent moisture absorption.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the purpose of ASTM D5052-18? It determines the water vapor permeability of leather, which contributes to the comfort of leather products by measuring transmission rate.
💡 What are the required testing conditions? The test must be conducted at 23°C ± 1°C and 50% ± 4% relative humidity, with air flow over the apparatus at 550 ft/min.
⚡ What apparatus is essential? An analytical balance (0.001 g), a permeability cup, a stamping die, a controlled chamber, and a fan. Specific dimensions are provided in the standard.
📌 How is the specimen prepared? Leather specimens are conditioned according to Practice D1610, cut with the stamping die, and placed in the cup with desiccant, ensuring proper sealing with wax.