WVTR stands for Water Vapor Transmission Rate.

It is a measure of the amount of water vapor that passes

through a material over a specific period. This metric is crucial in various industries, particularly in
packaging, construction, and electronics, where moisture control is essential for maintaining the integrity
and performance of products.

Key Points about WVTR:

1. Measurement Units: WVTR is typically measured in grams per square meter per day (g/m²/day).
This indicates how many grams of water vapor can pass through one square meter of the material in
24 hours.
2. Importance in Industries:
o Packaging: For food and pharmaceutical packaging, low WVTR is critical to prevent
moisture from degrading the product.
o Construction: In building materials, controlling WVTR helps in maintaining structural
integrity and preventing mold growth.
o Electronics: Electronic devices and components require materials with low WVTR to protect
against moisture damage that can affect functionality.
3. Testing Methods: WVTR is measured using standardized tests such as ASTM E96, ISO 15106, and
TAPPI T464. These tests involve placing a sample material in controlled environments and
measuring the amount of water vapor that passes through over time.
4. Factors Affecting WVTR:
o Material Composition: Different materials have varying abilities to block or allow water
vapor passage.
o Thickness: Thicker materials generally have lower WVTR.
o Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity levels can impact the WVTR of a
material.
5. Applications:
o Barrier Films: Used in packaging to extend shelf life by reducing moisture ingress.
o Coatings: Applied to materials to enhance their moisture barrier properties.
o Laminates: Multi-layered materials designed to provide superior moisture resistance.

Understanding and controlling WVTR is essential for designing and selecting materials that meet specific
moisture resistance requirements, ensuring product quality, longevity, and performance.