Plastics - Smoke generation - Part 2: Determination of optical density by a single-chamber test

2Scope / Description

This part of ISO 5659 specifies a method for measuring the smoke generated by the exposed surface of a material, composite material, or assembly. It is applicable to specimens with essentially flat surfaces and a thickness not exceeding 25 mm when horizontally positioned, exposed to a specified level of thermal radiation in a closed test chamber with or without an ignition flame. This test method is applicable to all plastics and can also be used to evaluate other materials (such as rubber, textile coverings, painted surfaces, wood, and others). 1.2 The optical density values determined by this test are to be considered specific to the form and thickness of the specimen or assembly material and are not to be considered inherent or essential properties. 1.3 This test is intended primarily for research and development purposes and for fire safety engineering in buildings, trains, ships, etc. It is not intended to be used as a basis for ratings in building codes or for other purposes. This test method does not provide a basis for predicting the density of smoke that a material may generate when subjected to heat and flame under other (realistic) exposure conditions. This test procedure excludes the effects of irritants on the eye. 1.4 It is emphasized that the amount of smoke generated by a material varies with the level of radiation to which the specimen is exposed. The results produced by the methods specified in this part of ISO 5659 are based on exposure to specific radiation levels of 25 kW/m2 and 50 kW/m2.