- Author
- Gaddy, G. D. | Rossiter, W. J., Jr. | Eby, R. K.
- Title
- Application of Thermal Analysis Techniques to the Characterization of EPDM Roofing Membrane Materials.
- Coporate
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
- Book or Conf
- American Society for Testing and Materials. Roofing Research and Standards Development, 2nd Volume. ASTM STP 1088. 1990., American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA, Wallace, T. J.; Rossiter, W. J., Editors, 37-52 p., 1990
- Keywords
- ASTM D 4637 | characterization | environments | EPDM rubber | roofing | single-ply membranes | thermal analysis
- Abstract
- This study was conducted to provide data on the feasibility of using thermal analysis (TA) methods for the characterization of roofing membrance materials. TA methods have not been widely applied to such materials. The methods used were thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Three black (carbon black filled), two white (titanium dioxide pigmented), and one white on black laminated ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) membrance materials were analyzed before and after exposure to the heat, ozone and UV conditions given in ASTM D 4637, as well as to outdoor exposure. Load-elongation tests were conducted to compare the results with those of the TA methods. The results indicated that: (1) TA techniques can be used to characterize EPDM membrane materials: (2) both the black and white membrance materials showed only slight property changes under exposure, as determined using the TA methods; and (3) in contrast to the TA results, the load-elongation values displayed relatively large changes. The TA tests determined bulk properties of the rubber sheets, whereas the elongation measurements were, to a great extent, influenced by surface characteristics. Based on the study results, it is recommended the work continue to provide additional data necessary for use to TA methods in standards.