This test method establishes a standard procedure for rapidly (in 1 h or less) determining the chemical resistance of specimens of protective clothing materials. This test method can be used to rank materials as to their suitability for use with liquids of known or unknown composition.

The breakthrough detection time, permeation rate, or cumulative permeation can be used to identify protective clothing materials that are more likely to limit potential exposures to chemicals. Longer breakthrough detection times and lower cumulative amounts permeated and permeation rates are characteristics of materials that are better barriers to the test chemical.

In general this test method is less sensitive than Test Method F 739 coupled with sensitive analytical procedures. In cases where the chemical of concern is highly toxic and contact of even a very small amount with the skin may be detrimental to health, the permeation cup method is not recommended. Use Test Method F 739.

Upon permeating the clothing material, the chemical must evaporate in order for a weight loss to occur and permeation to be detected. Consequently, the test method may not be applicable for chemicals having low volatility (that is, vapor pressure). The vapor pressure below which this test method is not applicable has not been determined.

5.4.1 A procedure for assessing volatility is described in Section 10.

The results of this test method are highly dependent on the test temperature. If the objective is to compare different clothing materials, all tests shall be conducted at the same temperature (±3°C).