SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1986
STP17321S

Evaluation of Chemical Protective Garment Seams and Closures for Resistance to Liquid Penetration

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Chemical penetration is defined as bulk flow of liquid through porous materials, closures, pinholes, seams, or imperfections in protective clothing material. The objective of this research was to evaluate bulky seams and closures for resistance to liquid penetration, using the ASTM Test for Resistance of Protective Clothing Materials to Penetration by Liquids (F 903-84). The test cell in this method is a mechanical device which costs less than $1000. A modification of the test cell was used throughout the course of this study. The test cell and cell modification are explained in detail. Penetration of the challenge chemical was determined by visual inspection of the protective clothing material in the cell. The specimen was mounted in the test cell, then charged with a challenge liquid. The specimen was observed after 5 min at atmospheric pressure, and then after 10 min at 13.8 kPa (2 psig). The appearance of a drop of liquid indicated failure. Eight different bulky seams and closures were evaluated against several liquids by this test method. Chemical penetration data for control specimens (specimens without seams or closures), seams, and closures demonstrate the utility of this test method. Problems associated with the sealing of these bulky items into the test cell, as well as with the solutions were critically evaluated.

Author Information

Berardinelli, SP
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control, Morgantown, WV
Cottingham, L
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control, Morgantown, WV
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Details
Developed by Committee: F23
Pages: 263–275
DOI: 10.1520/STP17321S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4967-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0461-7