ASTM D2843: Standard Test Method for Density of Smoke from the Burning or Decomposition of Plastics
Standard: ASTM D2843 - Standard Test Method for Density of Smoke from the Burning or Decomposition of Plastics
Certification Required: The International Building Code (IBC) requires this fire test—among others—for light-transmitting plastics. Manufacturers may find it beneficial to obtain an Intertek certification (ETL Mark or Code Compliance Research Report) to provide third-party assurance of their material's performance characteristics.
Additionally, the Florida Building Code (FBC) High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) / Miami-Dade requires this test—among others—in order to qualify as an "Approved Plastic." Manufacturers may wish to obtain a Notice of Acceptance (NOA) from Miami-Dade or a statewide Florida Product Approval. The CCRR can be used in support of a Florida Product Approval.
Scope: Per ASTM D2843, this test method measures "smoke obscuration produced by the burning or decomposition of plastics. It is intended to be used for measuring the smoke-producing characteristics of plastics under controlled conditions… Correlation with other fire conditions is not implied."
Applicable Products: Plastic materials
Test Procedure: The test specimen is exposed to flame for the duration of the 4-minute test, and the resulting smoke is mostly contained in the test chamber. The horizontal light absorption was measured across the light beam path of a photoelectric cell, and the condition of the smoke chamber was observed.
End Result: The test results in two indexes which are used to rate the material: the maximum smoke produced and the smoke-density rating.
Special Notes: (None)
Intertek Testing Locations: York, PA; Middleton, WI
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