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PHL Binder — Breathability Test Results

Lab-tested water vapor permeance of Earthaus PHL Binder (18.2–19.8 perms) compared to NHL and cement stucco.

This Help Center article is a summary of the official Earthaus PHL Binder Breathability Test Results document.

Testing Overview

  • Conducted by: Braun Intertec Corporation | Concrete Science, Chicago, IL

  • Date: November 18, 2024

  • Standard: ASTM D6490 — Water Vapor Transmission Rate

  • Purpose: Measures water vapor permeance, showing how well a plaster allows moisture to pass through.

Results

Water Vapor Permeance (Perms):

Material

Permeance (Perms)

Earthaus PHL

18.2 – 19.8

European NHL (various grades)

8.5 – 12.5

Cement Stucco

2 – 3

Earthaus PHL Key Findings:

  • Water Vapor Transmission Rate: 5.2 – 5.5 g/h·m²

  • Water Vapor Permeance: 18.2 – 19.8 perms

What This Means

  • Earthaus PHL moves more moisture through walls than NHL or cement stucco.

  • It prevents the moisture entrapment that leads to mold, rot, and material degradation.

  • It provides nearly double the vapor transmission of NHL in some cases.

  • Cement stucco, with only 2–3 perms, traps moisture, leading to cracking and deterioration.

  • Natural walls (straw, hemp, adobe) require breathable plasters; Earthaus PHL supports continuous drying.

Conclusion

  • Earthaus PHL Binder exceeds the breathability of both cement stucco and NHL.

  • It ensures durability, moisture control, and compatibility with natural building systems.

Customer Support

For product questions, email [email protected].

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