HP Gas Permeation

The transportation and handling of pressurised gases using polymeric components (e.g. seals) can result in undesirable side-effects; for example, explosive decompression damage. Having developed a unique high pressure (15000 psi) gas permeation methodology for elastomers employed in harsh offshore oil & gas service, MERL have extended its use to thermoplastics and thermosetting materials. The test allows measurement of inherent material properties – Q, D and s - at temperatures to 250°C - using a fixed volume method. Gases include CH₄, CO₂ and N₂: H₂S permeation can be measured at cylinder pressure.