An apparatus and method for performing permeation testing on materials used in personal protective equipment is described. Two or more test cells are loaded with swatches of material and inserted into the testing apparatus. Chemicals to be tested on the material are loaded into one or more syringes and may be introduced into the top of the test cells as a liquid or a vapor. Vapor is collected from the bottom of the test cells, underneath the swatches of material, and tested for concentration of the chemicals being tested. The apparatus and method facilitates instantaneous breakthrough analysis, control of the sample environment and ease of operator use and calibration.