OTR and WVTR Testing Lab

Overview

In the modern packaging industry, ensuring the durability and quality of packaging materials is crucial for maintaining product integrity, especially for food, pharmaceuticals, and sensitive electronic products. Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) are two critical parameters that influence the shelf life and quality of packaged goods.

At FARE Labs, we provide comprehensive OTR and WVTR testing services using standardized methods, ensuring that packaging materials meet regulatory and industry requirements. Our testing helps manufacturers guarantee that their products remain fresh and free from external contamination throughout their intended shelf life.

Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR)

• Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) is a measurement of how much oxygen permeates through a material over time. Oxygen can degrade sensitive products, especially those in the food and pharmaceutical industries, leading to spoilage, oxidation, or loss of nutritional value. Packaging materials must therefore be designed to limit the amount of oxygen that passes through to maintain product quality. At FARE Labs ASTM D3985 – standard test method is followed for OTR analysis.

Importance of OTR in Packaging

• Food Industry: Oxygen accelerates the degradation of food, causing oxidation of fats, spoilage, and reduced shelf life. Controlling oxygen transmission is essential for preserving the freshness and flavour of perishable goods.
• Pharmaceuticals: Certain pharmaceutical products are highly sensitive to oxygen, which can lead to loss of efficacy or instability. OTR testing ensures that oxygen-sensitive drugs are stored safely in packaging that prevents oxygen infiltration.
• Other Industries: Electronics, cosmetics, and chemicals are also vulnerable to oxidation. Controlling OTR ensures that these products are protected from oxygen-induced damage.

Water Vapour Transmission Rate (WVTR)

• Water Vapour Transmission Rate (WVTR) measures how much water vapour permeates through a material over time. This is critical for products that are sensitive to moisture, as excessive exposure can lead to spoilage, mould growth, or degradation. At FARE Labs ASTM F1249 – standard test method is followed for WVTR analysis.

Importance of WVTR in Packaging

• Food Industry: Moisture can lead to bacterial growth, spoilage, and changes in texture, particularly for dry or dehydrated food products. Packaging with low WVTR ensures that food remains dry and free from excess moisture.
• Pharmaceuticals: Certain medications, especially powders and capsules, are highly sensitive to moisture. Controlling WVTR is critical to preventing moisture related degradation.
• Electronics: For electronic devices and components, exposure to moisture can cause corrosion or short circuits, making low WVTR packaging essential for protection.
• Industrial Materials: Chemicals, powders, and other moisture sensitive materials also benefit from packaging that limits water vapour permeation.