SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1990
STP26553S

The Application of Thermal Analysis Techniques to the Characterization of EPDM Roofing Membrane Materials

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This study was conducted to provide data on the feasibility of using thermal analysis (TA) methods for the characterization of roofing membrane materials. TA methods have not been widely applied to such materials. The methods used were thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Three black (carbon black filled), two white (titanium dioxide pigmented), and one white on black laminate ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) membrane materials were analyzed before and after exposure to the heat, ozone and UV conditions given in ASTM D 4637, as well as to outdoor exposure. Load-elongation tests were conducted to compare the results with those of the TA methods. The results indicated that: (1) TA techniques can be used to characterize EPDM membrane materials; (2) both the black and white membrane materials showed only slight property changes under exposure, as determined using the TA methods; and (3) in contrast to the TA results, the load-elongation values displayed relatively large changes. The TA tests determined bulk properties of the rubber sheets, whereas the elongation measurements were, to a great extent, influenced by surface characteristics. Based on the study results, it is recommended that work continue to provide additional data necessary for use of TA methods in standards.

Author Information

Gaddy, GD
Rossiter, WJ
Eby, RK
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Details
Developed by Committee: D08
Pages: 37–52
DOI: 10.1520/STP26553S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5146-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-1393-0