- Author
-
Rossiter, W. J., Jr.
|
Mathey, R. G.
- Title
- Magnesium Oxychloride Cement-Based Foam Insulation: A Review of Available Information and Identification of Research Needs.
- Coporate
- National Bureau of Standands, Washington, DC
- Sponsor
- Department of Energy, Washington, DC
- Report
-
NBSIR 86-3326,
July 1986,
40 p.
- Distribution
- Available from National Technical Information Service
- Keywords
-
cement
|
foam
|
energy conservation
|
magnesium oxychloride
|
performance
|
properties
|
thermal insulation
|
walls
- Abstract
- This report reviews available information concerning the properties, performance, and use of magnesium oxychloride foam insulation. Laboratory testing was not included in the scope of the study, and data summarized were not developed based on NBS testing. These insulations are produced at the job site from formulations based on the reaction of magnesium oxide and magnesium chloride to form magnesium oxychloride cement. The low-density foams have been available in the U.S. for insulating walls of buildings for about three years. This review indicates that data are not complete regarding the characterization of this thermal insulation. One density and one thermal resistance value have been reported, in addition to some properties that concern the safe use of the insulation. Additional properties such as composition and structure, durability, effect on other building materials including corrosiveness, heat of combustion, shrinkage, strength properties, and water absorption and moisture transfer, that affect its performance as thermal insulation in buildings, have not been reported in the archival literature. It is recommended that more data be developed through laboratory research and field observations to provide for the characterization of the insulation. It is also recommended that caution be exercised when applying magnesium oxychloride foam insulation in wall cavities that contain metal objects. The available evidence describing the corrosiveness of magnesium oxychloride products is not definitive. As a matter of caution, the foam insulation should not be installed in wall cavities which have iron, steel, or aluminum objects such as studs, wall ties, or pipes without evaluation of the potential corrosiveness of the foam on such matallic components.