HEAT OF COMBUSTION HEATING VALUES OF LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS BY DIFFERENTIAL MACKEY TEST: ASTM D3523
EXPLANATION
The spontaneous heating value of a material is a measure of the ability of that material to undergo self-heating reactions while supported by a cellulosic or other fibrous material in air. It is an index of autoignition tendency of the substance under such conditions. This test method is not applicable to liquids on metal surfaces, on contaminated surfaces, or at pressures above atmospheric. The results by this test method are qualitative and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire-hazard or fire-risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
TEST SUMMARY
The sample is supported on surgical gauze and placed in a heated chamber that is open to air at the top. The temperature of this sample is compared to that of an equal reference quantity of surgical gauze contained in an identical chamber. Tests may be conducted for the durations of 4 to 72 h or longer.
PRECISION AND BIAS
No estimates are available since no round robins have been conducted given the complex and expensive nature of the equipment.
