A sample having a plurality of pores is located within a pressurizable chamber.
The sample divides the chamber into a first volume and a second volume. A known
amount of vapor is introduced into the first volume and the second volume at the
same pressure (Px). After equilibrium is reached, pressure and decrease
in volume of vapor are measured. Pore diameter and pore volume are calculated.
A pressure differential is created between the two volumes, and the pressure change
is monitored after the pressure differential is introduced. In a preferred embodiment,
the pressure is increased in the first volume by a small percentage (Px),
and the pressure change on both sides of the sample is monitored after the pressure
increase. The flow rate of the vapor is calculated using the pressure change. These
steps are preferably repeated. The pore distribution in the sample is preferably
calculated from the flow rates.