Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard presents two methods for testing the intumescence, or volume expansion, of firestop products. This testing is important for firestop manufacturers as well as certification and testing agencies that run product validation programs for firestops.

E2786, Test Methods for Measuring Expansion of Intumescent Materials Used in Firestop and Joint Systems, was developed by Subcommittee E06.21 on Serviceability, part of ASTM International Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings.

"E2786 will help in creating a more reasonable reference for the firestop industry, so when someone states that the expansion is 20 times the original size, then there will be no question as to how that expansion was determined," says Tim Mattox, manager, testing, codes and standards, commercial sealings and waterproofing division, Tremco Inc.

All interested parties are invited to join in the standards developing activities of E06.21, including other planned standards on firestop materials performance. To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation number, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (phone: 610-832-9585).

CONTACT Technical Information: Tim Mattox, Tremco Inc. • Beachwood, Ohio • Phone: 216-514-7566 • E-mail: tmattox@tremcoinc.com O ASTM Staff: Stephen Mawn • Phone: 610-832-9726 • E-mail: smawn@astm.org O Upcoming Meeting: April 10-13 • April Committee Week • Anaheim, Calif.