Self-Heating to Ignition Measurements and Computation of Critical Size for Solar Energy Collector Materials. Final Report.
Self-Heating to Ignition Measurements and Computation of
Critical Size for Solar Energy Collector Materials.
Final Report.
(10688 K)
Loftus, J. J.
NBSIR 85-3122; 38 p. March 1985.
Sponsor:
Department of Energy, Washington, DC
Available from:
National Technical Information Service
Order number: PB85-183374
Keywords:
critical temperature; ignition hazards; polyurethane
foams; plywood; reaction rate; self-heating; solar
collectors; wood; solar energy
Abstract:
Kinetic constants of the self-heating reaction were
determined for plywood, a retardant treated plywood, and
eight samples of polyurethane foam represnting possibly
two different kinds of foam materials. Under the
assumption that self-heating follows a first order
reaction, these constants were used to calculate the
critical half thickness of slabs of these materials for
surface temperatures likely to be experienced during
long term use in solar energy collectors. Based on
these calculations, estimates are provided on the
self-heating or ignition hazards associated with the
size and use of these materials in solar energy systems.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899