knowledge reserve: Oxygen Index ASTM D2863

 

The oxygen index refers to the minimum oxygen concentration at which a material can sustain combustion under certain conditions. It is determined by measuring the combustion performance of the sample under standard conditions. The Oxygen Index result is a percentage value that indicates the minimum concentration of oxygen a material requires to sustain combustion, and the rate at which it burns.

 

The basic steps of the ASTM D2863 test method are as follows:

 

1. Prepare the sample: Cut the material to be tested into a rectangular sample, usually with a size of 125mm×13mm (length×width).

 

2. Set the experimental conditions: Fix the sample in a vertical direction to ensure normal oxygen supply. Set the temperature and humidity conditions for the oxygen index tester.

 

3. Ignition: Ignite it with a flame at the upper end of the sample and observe the combustion process.

 

4. Record experimental data: record burning time, sample length, burning length and other data.

 

5. Calculate the oxygen index: Calculate the oxygen index of the sample according to the experimental data. The oxygen index is defined as the ratio of burn time to sample length multiplied by 100.

 

The results of the ASTM D2863 oxygen index test method can be used to evaluate the fire performance of materials. A higher oxygen index indicates that the material is less flammable in air, i.e. more difficult to burn. Conversely, a lower oxygen index means the material is more susceptible to flame and burns more easily.

 

Oxygen index testing has important application value in material research and development, product quality control and safety assessment. It can be used to evaluate the fire performance of various materials such as plastics, rubber, insulating materials, coatings, etc., and help to formulate corresponding safety regulations and standards. In addition, the oxygen index test can also be used to screen materials and select materials suitable for specific application environments.

 

It should be noted that the ASTM D2863 test method can only evaluate the combustion performance of materials under certain conditions, and cannot fully represent its behavior in the actual use environment. Therefore, when performing an oxygen index test, a comprehensive assessment should also be made in combination with other parameters and the actual situation. At the same time, safety operating procedures must be strictly followed during the test to ensure the accuracy of the test and personal safety.