ISO 62:2008 describes a procedure for determining the moisture absorption properties in the “through-the-thickness” direction of flat or curved-form solid plastics. It also describes procedures for determining the amount of water absorbed by plastic specimens of defined dimensions, when immersed in water or when subjected to humid air under controlled conditions. The “through-the-thickness” moisture diffusion coefficient can be determined for single-phase material by assuming Fickian diffusion behaviour with constant moisture absorption properties through the thickness of the test specimen. This model is valid for homogeneous materials and for reinforced polymer-matrix composites tested below their glass transition temperature. However, some two-phase matrices such as hardened epoxies may require a multi-phase absorption model which is not covered by this International Standard.

The results obtained using the methods described in this International Standard are applicable to most plastics but are not applicable to cellular plastics, granulates or powders, which can show additional absorption and capillary effects. Plastics exposed to moisture under controlled conditions for defined periods of time provide relative comparisons between them.