ISO 9727-8:2022

Overview

ISO 9727-8:2022 is an international standard that specifies the test methods for determining the capillarity of cylindrical cork stoppers. Capillarity measurement is crucial for assessing the physical properties of cork stoppers used primarily in the wine and beverage industries. The standard involves measuring the capillary rise when the stoppers are dipped in a hydro-alcoholic solution containing a dye. Different methods are outlined based on varying concentrations of hydro-alcoholic solutions, tailored to provide flexibility in testing speed and accuracy. This standard applies to all ready-for-use cylindrical cork stoppers.

Key Topics

• Test Methods:
  The standard describes three testing procedures with different solution concentrations and contact times:

  • Reference method: Uses a 12% vol. ethanolic solution, 24 hours contact.
  • Rapid method: Uses a 50% vol. ethanolic solution, 1 hour contact.
  • Very fast control method: Uses a 70% vol. ethanolic solution, 10 minutes contact.

• Testing Procedure:

  • Cork stoppers are placed upright in a container with a colored hydro-alcoholic solution at a depth of 3 mm (or 6 mm for chamfered stoppers).
  • After the contact period, the capillary rise on the stopper surface is measured using a ruler with 0.5 mm accuracy.

• Test Conditions:

  • Environmental temperature maintained at 21 °C ± 4 °C.
  • Relative air humidity at 60% ± 20%.
  • Cork stopper temperature verified at the start of testing.

• Measurement and Reporting:

  • The maximum height of the capillary rise on the periphery is recorded in millimeters.
  • Occasional discontinuities and isolated rises are excluded from measurement.
  • Test reports include all relevant test conditions, sample identification, and any deviations.

Applications

• Quality Control in Cork Production:

  • Manufacturers use ISO 9727-8:2022 to ensure cork stoppers meet capillarity standards critical for preserving beverage quality.
  • Capillarity testing prevents issues like unwanted leakage or premature oxidation.

• Industry Compliance:

  • Wineries and bottling companies incorporate this standard to validate cork stopper batches, ensuring product safety and consistency during storage and transportation.

• Research & Development:

  • Testing capillarity facilitates the development of improved cork formulations and treatments that optimize the sealing properties and longevity of cork stoppers.

Related Standards

• ISO 633: Cork - Vocabulary
  This standard provides definitions and terminology relevant to cork, which supports consistent understanding and application of ISO 9727-8:2022.

• Other Parts of ISO 9727 Series
  The ISO 9727 series covers various physical tests for cork stoppers, complementing capillarity determination with measurements such as permeability, mechanical strength, and dimensional stability.

• Relevant Beverage Packaging Standards
  Aligning cork stopper standards with international beverage packaging requirements ensures comprehensive quality assurance.

By adhering to ISO 9727-8:2022, stakeholders in the cork and beverage industries benefit from standardized, reliable physical testing methods that support quality control, product safety, and enhanced consumer satisfaction.