Measuring properties for material decomposition modeling

Thermal properties were measured on coupon size samples for use in predicting the temperature response and mass transfer during fires exposures. The thermal properties were determined up to temperatures of 800 degrees C through inverse heat transfer analysis on temperature response and mass loss data. Temperature response and mass loss data were determined using a high heat flux decomposition apparatus with controlled oxygen environment. Data included thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, and density as a function of temperature as well as heat of decomposition and Arrhenius kinetic decomposition constants. Properties for inert materials (no decomposition) compared well with manufacturer reported values and values using other methods. Properties for two decomposing materials, woven glass vinyl ester composite and balsa wood, were measured and compared well with data from other methods. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.