Fremdgasdurchlässigkeit

Fremdgasdurchlass is a German term that translates to "foreign gas passage" or "undesired gas penetration" in English. It refers to the uncontrolled ingress of unwanted gases into a system or environment where their presence is detrimental. This phenomenon can occur in various scientific, industrial, and medical contexts.

In vacuum technology, Fremdgasdurchlass is a critical concern. It describes the leakage of atmospheric gases or other contaminants into a vacuum chamber. This leakage can significantly reduce the achievable vacuum level, compromise the integrity of sensitive processes, and potentially damage delicate equipment. Identifying and eliminating sources of Fremdgasdurchlass is essential for maintaining high vacuum conditions. Common sources include leaks in seals, porous materials, outgassing from internal components, and improper purging procedures.

In the field of materials science and engineering, Fremdgasdurchlass can describe the penetration of specific gases through a material's structure. This is particularly relevant for applications involving barriers, membranes, or protective coatings. For instance, it might refer to the diffusion of oxygen through a plastic packaging material, leading to spoilage of its contents, or the passage of corrosive gases through a protective layer, degrading the underlying substrate. Understanding and controlling Fremdgasdurchlass is crucial for designing materials with desired properties and ensuring their long-term performance.

In medical applications, Fremdgasdurchlass can be a concern in sealed medical devices or during surgical procedures. For example, the unintended entry of air into a blood vessel (air embolism) or the penetration of gases into a sterile field can have serious health consequences. Careful design, manufacturing, and procedural controls are implemented to prevent such unwanted gas passages.