Water leakage tests have been established as quick and effective methods for testing barrier properties of latex male condoms and polyurethane female condoms. The WEAC is validating a similar water leak test method for synthetic male condoms. The condoms are filled, plugged and rolled in a horizontal position on a piece of absorbant paper. This is done to expose the entire circumference of the condom to the same pressure conditions.
This study is being conducted to quantitate the sensitivity of the method for detecting holes. The effects of surfactant and analyst on detection rate are also being investigated. Holes varying in size from 10 µm to 50 µm in diameter have been laser drilled into the condoms. Two analysts are testing half of the condoms with room temperature tap water and half with 0.02% Fluorad FC-100 (3M Co.) distilled-deionized water solution. The location and size of the holes are unknown to the analyst.
Preliminary results indicate that the method is very effective in detecting holes 30 µm in diameter and larger. Use of the surfactant solution increases the detection of smaller holes.