Overview
EN ISO 9073-15:2008 is a European and international standard specifying the test method for determining the air permeability of nonwoven textile fabrics. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and adopted by CEN, this standard measures the rate of air flow passing perpendicularly through a defined area of nonwoven fabric under controlled pressure conditions. It applies to most nonwoven materials, including treated or untreated laminates, covering a wide range of basis weights from low to high.
This standardized test method is vital for assessing airflow characteristics in textiles, ensuring quality control and performance consistency in various industrial applications.
Key Topics
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Scope and Application
Applies broadly to nonwoven textiles and laminates, whether treated or untreated, detailing the measurement of air flow through the fabric’s cross-section.
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Test Principles
Measures air flow velocity through a fabric sample at a specific pressure differential (typically between 100 Pa and 2,500 Pa), expressed in units such as liters per square centimeter per second (l/cm²·s).
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Test Apparatus and Setup
- Circular test heads with defined areas (20 cm², 38.3 cm², or 50 cm²)
- Clamping systems to prevent edge leakage and maintain specimen integrity
- Vacuum pumps for generating steady airflow
- Pressure sensors or manometers for precise measurement of pressure differentials
- Flowmeters or variable orifices for measuring airflow velocity
- Calibration plates to ensure instrument accuracy
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Sample Preparation
Specimens are conditioned under standard atmosphere conditions (ISO 139) and cut to specific dimensions (e.g., 100 mm x 100 mm). Special care is advised in handling to maintain sample integrity and prevent distortion.
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Test Procedure
Steps include securing the specimen on the test head, applying suction until the target pressure drop is reached, stabilizing the system, and recording airflow rates. Coated specimens are tested with coated sides oriented downward to minimize errors.
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Calculations and Reporting
The arithmetic mean of multiple readings is calculated alongside the coefficient of variation. Test results related to air permeability are reported along with detailed test conditions, pressure used, material type, and any deviations from the standard method.
Applications
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Textile Manufacturing
Ensures nonwoven products meet air permeability requirements for comfort, breathability, and functionality.
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Quality Control
Provides consistent and repeatable measurements during production to monitor fabric uniformity and performance.
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Product Development
Assists in optimizing fabric designs for specific air permeability needs in medical textiles, filters, hygiene products, protective clothing, and automotive interiors.
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Research & Testing Laboratories
Acts as a reference method for testing labs conducting comparative studies on various nonwoven materials.
Related Standards
EN ISO 9073-15:2008 is part of a comprehensive series of ISO 9073 standards covering test methods for nonwovens, including:
- ISO 9073-1: Determination of mass per unit area
- ISO 9073-2: Determination of thickness
- ISO 9073-3: Determination of tensile strength and elongation
- ISO 9073-4: Determination of tear resistance
- ISO 9073-16 to 9073-18: Tests related to water resistance, spray impact, and grab tensile testing
It references other foundational standards such as:
- ISO 139: Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing textiles
- ISO 186: Sampling to determine average quality
- ISO 10012: Requirements for measurement processes and equipment calibration
Summary
EN ISO 9073-15:2008 serves as a critical international standard for accurately measuring the air permeability of nonwoven textile fabrics. By standardizing test conditions and methodologies, it enables manufacturers, researchers, and quality assurance professionals to reliably assess and control airflow properties essential to product performance and consumer satisfaction. This standard is crucial for industries reliant on breathable and permeable nonwoven materials, supporting innovation and compliance across global textile markets.