ASTM C1126-19

Standard Specification for Faced or Unfaced Rigid Cellular Phenolic Thermal Insulation

ABSTRACT
This specification covers faced or unfaced rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation. Insulations in the form of boards shall be faced or unfaced, while tubular forms shall be unfaced. This specification does not apply to field expanded cellular phenolic materials. Materials covered by this specification are used as roof insulation; sheathing or rigid board for non-load bearing, building material applications; and pipe insulation for use at specified temperature ranges. Type II Grade 1 and Type III Grade 1 materials with an appropriate vapor retarder covering on the warm surface can be used to a lower temperature limit. The thermal insulation shall be of the following types and grades: Type I, for use as roof insulation board and produced without integral vapor retarder facers; Type II, for use as sheathing or rigid panel for non-load bearing applications and produced with integral vapor retarder facers; Type III, for use as pipe insulation and produced without integral vapor retarder facers; Grade 1, closed cell material; and Grade 2, open cell material. Materials shall be sampled, prepared, tested, and conform accordingly to the following physical properties: density; compressive resistance; tensile strength; apparent thermal conductivity; dimension stability; water absorption; water vapor permeance and permeability; flame spread index; and smoke developed index.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers faced or unfaced, rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation. Boards shall be faced or unfaced. Tubular forms and board cut from a block or bun covered by this standard shall be unfaced. It does not apply to field expanded cellular phenolic materials.
Note 1: If a facer or vapor retarder is to be used for the tubular form or board, then refer to Practice C921.  
1.2 Materials covered by this specification are used as roof insulation; sheathing or rigid board for non-load bearing, building material applications; and pipe or board insulation cut from a block or bun for use between −40 and 257°F (−40 and 125°C). Type II and Type III materials with an appropriate vapor retarder covering on the warm surface are used to a lower temperature limit of −290°F (−180°C). (See 7.3.)  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.4 This specification covers closed cell rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation manufactured using blowing agents with an ozone depletion potential of 0 (ODP 0).  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
For specific precautionary statements, see Section 16.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Mar-2019
• ICS: 83.100 - Cellular materials
• Technical Committee: C16 - Thermal Insulation
• Drafting Committee: C16.22 - Organic and Nonhomogeneous Inorganic Thermal Insulations

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C1126-18 - Standard Specification for Faced or Unfaced Rigid Cellular Phenolic Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C168-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM C1363-24 - Standard Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-24 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM C390-08(2024) - Standard Practice for Sampling and Acceptance of Thermal Insulation Lots
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-23 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM C1303/C1303M-23 - Standard Test Method for Predicting Long-Term Thermal Resistance of Closed-Cell Foam Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM D1622-20 - Standard Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM C1763-20 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM C209-20 - Standard Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM C1763-19e1 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1763-19 - Standard Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1363-19 - Standard Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2019

Overview

ASTM C1126-19 is a standard specification developed by ASTM International for faced or unfaced rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation. This standard outlines the requirements and test methods for phenolic foam thermal insulation supplied in the form of boards (faced or unfaced) and tubular products (unfaced only). ASTM C1126-19 does not apply to field-expanded phenolic foams. The covered materials are widely used in the building construction industry for applications such as roof insulation, non-load-bearing sheathing, rigid boards, and pipe insulation, specifically within designated temperature ranges.

Key features of rigid cellular phenolic insulation include high thermal performance, low ozone depletion potential, and strong fire resistance properties-making it suitable for energy-efficient and safe building insulation systems.

Key Topics

• Product Types and Grades

  • Type I: Roof insulation board, unfaced, no integral vapor retarder.
  • Type II: Rigid panel/sheathing for non-load bearing uses, produced with integral vapor retarder facers.
  • Type III: Pipe insulation, unfaced, available in various grades by density.
  • Grades: Grade 1 (closed cell); Grade 2 (open cell).

• Physical and Performance Requirements

  • Minimum density, compressive resistance, and closed cell content.
  • Thermal conductivity specified at various temperatures for comparative performance.
  • Dimensional stability under specific humidity and temperature conditions.
  • Water absorption and vapor permeability limits.
  • Surface burning characteristics (flame spread and smoke developed indexes).

• Environmental Considerations

  • Insulation must be manufactured with blowing agents offering an ozone depletion potential of zero (ODP 0).

• Health and Safety

  • Compliance with safety, health, and environmental practices identified as the responsibility of the user.

• Order and Identification Requirements

  • Clear requirements for purchase documentation to include product type, size, designation, and any additional test or inspection needs.

Applications

Rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation as specified by ASTM C1126-19 is utilized across a range of building and industrial applications:

• Building Envelopes

  • Roof insulation for energy efficiency and moisture control.
  • Sheathing panels in wall assemblies for non-load bearing exterior or partition walls.

• Pipe and Duct Insulation

  • Tubular phenolic foam for mechanical piping systems exposed to a broad temperature range (-40°F to 257°F [-40°C to 125°C]; reduced to −290°F [−180°C] for certain types with vapor retarders).
  • Insulation boards cut from blocks can be tailored for specialty requirements or retrofitted in HVAC and process systems.

• Sustainability in Construction

  • Closed cell products made under ASTM C1126-19 provide high insulating value while supporting environmental goals due to zero-ODP blowing agents.

Related Standards

To ensure compliance and interoperability, several related ASTM standards are referenced within ASTM C1126-19, including:

• ASTM C165 - Compressive properties of thermal insulations.
• ASTM C177 / C518 - Thermal conductivity measurement methods.
• ASTM C921 - Properties of jacketing materials for insulation.
• ASTM E84 - Surface burning characteristics of building materials.
• ASTM E96 - Water vapor transmission test methods.
• ASTM D1622 / D6226 - Density and open cell content testing of rigid cellular plastics.

Consulting these related standards ensures accurate material selection, testing, and performance assessment in accordance with recognized industry practices.

---

Keywords: ASTM C1126-19, faced phenolic foam, unfaced phenolic insulation, rigid cellular phenolic, thermal insulation, building insulation standard, pipe insulation, board insulation, ozone depletion potential, building envelope, fire resistance, water vapor permeance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:C1126 −19
Standard Specification for
Faced or Unfaced Rigid Cellular Phenolic Thermal
Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1126; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 Thisspecificationcoversfacedorunfaced,rigidcellular
phenolic thermal insulation. Boards shall be faced or unfaced. C165TestMethodforMeasuringCompressivePropertiesof
Thermal Insulations
Tubular forms and board cut from a block or bun covered by
this standard shall be unfaced. It does not apply to field C168Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
C177Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measure-
expanded cellular phenolic materials.
NOTE 1—If a facer or vapor retarder is to be used for the tubular form ments and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of
or board, then refer to Practice C921.
the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
C209Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
1.2 Materials covered by this specification are used as roof
C335/C335MTest Method for Steady-State Heat Transfer
insulation; sheathing or rigid board for non-load bearing,
Properties of Pipe Insulation
buildingmaterialapplications;andpipeorboardinsulationcut
C390Practice for Sampling and Acceptance of Thermal
from a block or bun for use between−40 and 257°F (−40 and
Insulation Lots
125°C). Type II and Type III materials with an appropriate
C518Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
vapor retarder covering on the warm surface are used to a
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
lower temperature limit of −290°F (−180°C). (See 7.3.)
C550Test Method for Measuring Trueness and Squareness
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
of Rigid Block and Board Thermal Insulation
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
C585Practice for Inner and Outer Diameters of Thermal
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
Insulation for Nominal Sizes of Pipe and Tubing
and are not considered standard.
C921Practice for Determining the Properties of Jacketing
1.4 This specification covers closed cell rigid cellular phe- Materials for Thermal Insulation
nolic thermal insulation manufactured using blowing agents
C1045Practice for Calculating Thermal Transmission Prop-
with an ozone depletion potential of 0 (ODP 0). erties Under Steady-State Conditions
C1058/C1058MPractice for Selecting Temperatures for
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Evaluating and Reporting Thermal Properties of Thermal
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Insulation
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
C1303/C1303MTest Method for Predicting Long-Term
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Thermal Resistance of Closed-Cell Foam Insulation
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
C1363Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building
For specific precautionary statements, see Section 16.
Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
Box Apparatus
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
C1763Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Thermal Insulation Materials
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
D1621Test Method for Compressive Properties of Rigid
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Cellular Plastics
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
D1622Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular
Plastics
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on
Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.22 on
Organic and Nonhomogeneous Inorganic Thermal Insulations. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved April 1, 2019. Published May 2019. Originally contactASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. ForAnnual Book ofASTM
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as C1126–18. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C1126-19. theASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1126−19
D1623Test Method for Tensile and TensileAdhesion Prop- 6.2 Facings—FacingonTypeIImaterialshallbeadheredto
erties of Rigid Cellular Plastics the core stock and suitable for the service intended.They shall
D2126Test Method for Response of Rigid Cellular Plastics be supplied as agreed upon between manufacturer and pur-
to Thermal and Humid Aging chaser.
D6226Test Method for Open Cell Content of Rigid Cellular
Plastics 7. Physical Properties
E84Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
7.1 The material shall conform to the requirements as
Building Materials
shown in Table 1 and Table 2.
E96/E96MTest Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of
7.2 TheTypeIIIhigherdensitymaterialshallconformtothe
Materials
requirements as shown in Table 2.
3. Terminology
7.3 Not all physical properties at temperatures below −40°F
3.1 The definitions and terms in Terminology C168 shall
(−40°C) have been fully tested, and the user shall consult the
apply to this specification.
manufacturer for any properties and performance required at
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
these lower temperatures.
3.2.1 foam core—rigid cellular thermal installation without
any facers or barriers on the surface of the installation.
8. Dimensions and Tolerances
3.2.2 closed cell material—foam where more than 90 % of
8.1 Dimensions—The dimensions shall be as agreed upon
the cells are totally enclosed by cell walls, and not intercon-
betweenthepurchaserandthesupplier,butcommonlyshallbe
nected with other cells.
as follows:
3.2.3 open cell material—foam whose cells are not totally
8.1.1 Type I—Width, 24 in., 36 in., or 48 in. (610 mm, 915
enclosed by its walls and therefore exhibits a predominance of
mm, or 1220 mm). Length, 48 in. or larger (1220 mm or
interconnecting cells.
larger).
3.2.4 ozone depletion potential (ODP)—a relative index
8.1.2 Type II—Width, 48 in. (1220 mm). Length, 96 in. or
indicatingtheextenttowhichachemicalproductcausesozone
larger (2440 mm or larger).
depletion.
8.1.3 Type III—Pipe insulation with dimensions that are in
3.2.4.1 Discussion—Thereferencelevelof1isthepotential
accordance with Practice C585.
of trichlorofluoromethane (R-11 or CFC-11) to cause ozone
8.2 Tolerances—Unless otherwise agreed upon between the
depletion. ODP 0 is an ozone depletion potential of zero.
purchaser and the supplier, the tolerances shall be as follows:
4. Classification
8.2.1 Types I and II— When measured at 73.4 6 3.6°F (23
6 2°C) and 50 6 5% relative humidity, these types shall
4.1 The thermal insulation shall be of the following types:
conform to the following:
4.1.1 Type I—For use as roof insulation board. Produced
without integral vapor retarder facers.
8.2.1.1 Length—Not to exceed 6 ⁄4 in. (66.4 mm).
4.1.2 Type II—For use as sheathing or rigid panel for
8.2.1.2 Width—Not to exceed 6 ⁄4 in. (66.4 mm).
non-load bearing applications. Produced with integral vapor
8.2.1.3 Thickness—Not to exceed 6 ⁄8 in. (63.1 mm).
retarder facers.
8.2.2 Type III—Thicknesses available for various pipe and
4.1.3 Type III—Foruseaspipeinsulation.Producedwithout
tube sizes shall be in accordance with Practice C585. The
integral vapor retarder facers.
average measured length shall not differ from the standard
4.1.3.1 Type III, grade 1—Density, min 2 lbs/ft
dimensionofthemanufacturerbymorethan 6 ⁄4in.(6.4mm).
4.1.3.2 Type III, grade 2—Density, min 3.75 lbs/ft
8.3 Other Parameters for Types I and II:
4.1.3.3 Type III, grade 3—Density, min 5 lbs/ft
8.3.1 Squareness—Board squareness shall be within re-
4.1.3.4 Type III, grade 4—Density, min 7.5 lbs/ft
quiredtoleranceifthetwodiagonalmeasurementsoftheboard
5. Ordering Information
differ by no more than ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm).
5.1 Orders for materials purchased under this specification
8.3.2 Straightness—Unless otherwise specified, the boards
shall include the following information:
shall be furnished with straight edges which shall not deviate
5.1.1 Designation of this specification.
by more than ⁄32 in./ft (2.6 mm/m).
5.1.2 Product name and type.
8.3.3 Flatness—The boards shall not depart from absolute
5.1.3 Size and dimensions.
flatness by more than ⁄16 in./ft of width or length (5.2 mm/m).
5.1.4 Quantity of material.
8.3.4 The straightness and flatness shall be determined in
5.1.5 Special requirements for inspection and/or testing.
accordance with Practice C550, except that a straight edge
5.1.6 Pipe insulation jacketing (optional).
longer than the dimension being determined shall be used.
6. Materials and Manufacture
9. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance
6.1 Foam Core Chemical Composition—The foam shall be
producedbyachemicalreactionofaphenolicresin,surfactant, 9.1 Theinsulationshallhavenodefectsthatadverselyaffect
blowing agent, and other additives as needed. its service qualities.
C1126−19
TABLE 1 Physical Property Requirements
NOTE 1—As Type II insulation is produced with integral vapor retarder facers, the orientation of the facer is important in preventing moisture
penetration into the insulation and the water vapor permeance of the Type II faced insulation is valid as long as the facer does not fail.
Property Unit Type I Type II
3 3 A
Density, min lbs/ft (kg ⁄m ) N/A 2 (32)
Compressive resistance, min (faced or unfaced) at 10 % psi (kPa) 16 (108) 18 (124)
deformation or yield whichever occurs first
Closed cell content minimum % % 90 90
A
Tensile strength, min (faced) psf (Pa) 150 (7180) N/A
Apparent Thermal Btu·in./h·ft ·°F (W/mK)
B
Conductivity, max
(foam core):
A
−250°F (−157°C) mean temp. N/A 0.12 (0.017)
A
−200°F (−129°C) mean temp. N/A 0.13 (0.018)
A
−150°F (−101°C) mean temp. N/A 0.14 (0.019)
A
−100°F (−73°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
A
−50°F (−46°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
A
−0°F (−17°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
40°F (4°C) mean temp. 0.16 (0.022) 0.15 (0.021)
75°F (24°C) mean temp. 0.17 (0.025) 0.15 (0.021)
110°F (43°C) mean temp. 0.19 (0.028) 0.17 (0.024)
A A
150°F (65°C) mean temp. N/A N/A
A A
200°F (93°C) mean temp. N/A N/A
C
Dimensional stability, 1 week % lin chg, max
Exposure (foam core):
A A
257 ± 4°F (125 ± 2°C), ambient RH N/A N/A
-40 ± 6°F (−40 ± 3°C), ambient RH 22
158 ± 4°F (70 ± 2°C), 97 ± 3 % RH 22
Water absorption, max, (foam core): % by volume 3.0 3.0
Water vapor permeance, perms, (facer only) grains/h·ft ·in.·Hg
(ng/s·m ·Pa)
D E
#1.0 (57)
Water vapor permeability, max, perm-in. (foam core) Perm-inch (ng/s·m·Pa) 5.0 (7.2) 5.0 (7.2)
F,G
Flame spread index, max (foam core) 25 25
F,G
Smoke developed index, max (foam core) 50 50
A
N/A = not applicable.
B
ApparentThermalConductivitytestsshallbeusedforclassificationpurposesonly.ThethermalconductivityvaluesshowninthistablewereobtainedusingTestMethod
C518 or C177.
C
Dimensional stability data at lower temperature will be added when testing is complete.
D
No minimum or maximum values are required for Type I material. It is expected roof design will reflect actual building and environmental conditions. Under certain
circumstances a vapor retarder is required.
E
Consult manufacturer for certain application in cold climates where greater permeance values are desirable.
F
This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself
incorporate all factors required for fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under the actual fire conditions.
G
In some cases facings used on composite products cause the flame spread index and smoke developed index of the composite to be significantly different than those
of the foam core itself.
10. Qualification Requirements 11. Sampling
10.1 For the purpose of initial material or product 11.1 Unless otherwise specified in the purchase order or
contract, sampling shall be in accordance with Practice C390.
qualification, eachType of insulation shall meet the applicable
test results of Table 1 and Table 2.
12. Specimen Preparation
10.2 Acceptance qualification for lots and shipments of
12.1 Unless otherwise specified in the test procedure, all
qualified product shall be agreed upon by purchaser and
tests shall be made on specimens conditioned at least 24 h at
supplier.
73.4 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C) and 50 6 5% relative humidity.
10.3 When it is anticipated that phenolic foam will be in
12.2 AllType II test specimen have facers present andType
direct contact with metal, the foam supplier shall provide the
I and Type III test specimens are foam core samples except
proper installation procedure. In some cases, type 1 phenolic
where otherwise indicated.
foams contain some compounds which promote corrosion in
12.3 Allcutedgesshallbesmoothandfreeofanymechani-
the presence of liquid water. There are currently no directly
cal damage which would affect test results.
applicable ASTM corrosion tests for phenolic foams. An
attempt will be made to develop a meaningful corrosion test 12.4 Where foam is tested with facings, care shall be taken
and will be incorporated into the standard when it becomes to avoid delamination of the specimen during sample prepara-
available. tion.
C1126−19
TABLE 2 Physical Property Requirements
NOTE 1—As Type II insulation is produced with integral vapor retarder facers, the orientation of the facer is important in pr
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1126 − 18 C1126 − 19
Standard Specification for
Faced or Unfaced Rigid Cellular Phenolic Thermal
Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1126; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This specification covers faced or unfaced, rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation. Boards shall be faced or unfaced.
Tubular forms and board cut from a block or bun covered by this standard shall be unfaced. It does not apply to field expanded
cellular phenolic materials.
NOTE 1—If a facer or vapor retarder is to be used for the tubular form, form or board, then refer to Practice C921.
1.2 Materials covered by this specification are used as roof insulation; sheathing or rigid board for non-load bearing, building
material applications; and pipe insulation or board insulation cut from a block or bun for use between −40 and 257°F (−40 and
125°C). Type II and Type III materials with an appropriate vapor retarder covering on the warm surface are used to a lower
temperature limit of −290°F (−180°C). (See 7.3.)
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 This specification covers closed cell rigid cellular phenolic thermal insulation manufactured using blowing agents with an
ozone depletion potential of 0 (ODP 0).
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
For specific precautionary statements, see Section 16.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C165 Test Method for Measuring Compressive Properties of Thermal Insulations
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the
Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
C209 Test Methods for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board
C335/C335M Test Method for Steady-State Heat Transfer Properties of Pipe Insulation
C390 Practice for Sampling and Acceptance of Thermal Insulation Lots
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
C550 Test Method for Measuring Trueness and Squareness of Rigid Block and Board Thermal Insulation
C585 Practice for Inner and Outer Diameters of Thermal Insulation for Nominal Sizes of Pipe and Tubing
C921 Practice for Determining the Properties of Jacketing Materials for Thermal Insulation
C1045 Practice for Calculating Thermal Transmission Properties Under Steady-State Conditions
C1058/C1058M Practice for Selecting Temperatures for Evaluating and Reporting Thermal Properties of Thermal Insulation
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.22 on Organic and
Nonhomogeneous Inorganic Thermal Insulations.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2018April 1, 2019. Published December 2018May 2019. Originally approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 20152018 as
C1126 – 15.C1126 – 18. DOI: 10.1520/C1126-18.10.1520/C1126-19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1126 − 19
C1303/C1303M Test Method for Predicting Long-Term Thermal Resistance of Closed-Cell Foam Insulation
C1363 Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus
C1763 Test Method for Water Absorption by Immersion of Thermal Insulation Materials
D1621 Test Method for Compressive Properties of Rigid Cellular Plastics
D1622 Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics
D1623 Test Method for Tensile and Tensile Adhesion Properties of Rigid Cellular Plastics
D2126 Test Method for Response of Rigid Cellular Plastics to Thermal and Humid Aging
D6226 Test Method for Open Cell Content of Rigid Cellular Plastics
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 The definitions and terms in Terminology C168 shall apply to this specification.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 foam core—rigid cellular thermal installation without any facers or barriers on the surface of the installation.
3.2.2 closed cell material—foam where more than 90 % of the cells are totally enclosed by cell walls, and not interconnected
with other cells.
3.2.3 open cell material—foam whose cells are not totally enclosed by its walls and therefore exhibits a predominance of
interconnecting cells.
3.2.4 ozone depletion potential (ODP)—a relative index indicating the extent to which a chemical product causes ozone
depletion.
3.2.4.1 Discussion—
The reference level of 1 is the potential of trichlorofluoromethane (R-11 or CFC-11) to cause ozone depletion. ODP 0 is an ozone
depletion potential of zero.
4. Classification
4.1 The thermal insulation shall be of the following types:
4.1.1 Type I—For use as roof insulation board. Produced without integral vapor retarder facers.
4.1.2 Type II—For use as sheathing or rigid panel for non-load bearing applications. Produced with integral vapor retarder
facers.
4.1.3 Type III—For use as pipe insulation. Produced without integral vapor retarder facers.
4.1.3.1 Type III, grade 1—Density, min 2 lbs/ft
4.1.3.2 Type III, grade 2—Density, min 3.75 lbs/ft
4.1.3.3 Type III, grade 3—Density, min 5 lbs/ft
4.1.3.4 Type III, grade 4—Density, min 7.5 lbs/ft
5. Ordering Information
5.1 Orders for materials purchased under this specification shall include the following information:
5.1.1 Designation of this specification.
5.1.2 Product name and type.
5.1.3 Size and dimensions.
5.1.4 Quantity of material.
5.1.5 Special requirements for inspection and/or testing.
5.1.6 Pipe insulation jacketing (optional).
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Foam Core Chemical Composition—The foam shall be produced by a chemical reaction of a phenolic resin, surfactant,
blowing agent, and other additives as needed.
6.2 Facings—Facing on Type II material shall be adhered to the core stock and suitable for the service intended. They shall be
supplied as agreed upon between manufacturer and purchaser.
7. Physical Properties
7.1 The material shall conform to the requirements as shown in Table 1 and Table 2.
7.2 The Type III higher density material shall conform to the requirements as shown in Table 2.
C1126 − 19
TABLE 1 Physical Property Requirements
NOTE 1—As Type II insulation is produced with integral vapor retarder facers, the orientation of the facer is important in preventing moisture
penetration into the insulation and the water vapor permeance of the Type II faced insulation is valid as long as the facer does not fail.
Property Unit Type I Type II
3 3 A
Density, min lbs/ft (kg ⁄m ) N/A 2 (32)
Compressive resistance, min (faced or unfaced) at 10 % psi (kPa) 16 (108) 18 (124)
deformation or yield whichever occurs first
Closed cell content minimum % % 90 90
A
Tensile strength, min (faced) psf (Pa) 150 (7180) N/A
Apparent Thermal Btu·in./h·ft ·°F (W/mK)
B
Conductivity, max
(foam core):
A
−250°F (−157°C) mean temp. N/A 0.12 (0.017)
A
−200°F (−129°C) mean temp. N/A 0.13 (0.018)
A
−150°F (−101°C) mean temp. N/A 0.14 (0.019)
A
−100°F (−73°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
A
−50°F (−46°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
A
−0°F (−17°C) mean temp. N/A 0.15 (0.021)
40°F (4°C) mean temp. 0.16 (0.022) 0.15 (0.021)
75°F (24°C) mean temp. 0.17 (0.025) 0.15 (0.021)
110°F (43°C) mean temp. 0.19 (0.028) 0.17 (0.024)
A A
150°F (65°C) mean temp. N/A N/A
A A
200°F (93°C) mean temp. N/A N/A
C
Dimensional stability, 1 week % lin chg, max
Exposure (foam core):
A A
257 ± 4°F (125 ± 2°C), ambient RH N/A N/A
-40 ± 6°F (−40 ± 3°C), ambient RH 2 2
158 ± 4°F (70 ± 2°C), 97 ± 3 % RH 2 2
Water absorption, max, (foam core): % by volume 3.0 3.0
Water vapor permeance, perms, (facer only) grains/h·ft ·in.·Hg
(ng/s·m ·Pa)
D E
#1.0 (57)
Water vapor permeability, max, perm-in. (foam core) Perm-inch (ng/s·m·Pa) 5.0 (7.2) 5.0 (7.2)
F,G
Flame spread index, max (foam core) 25 25
F,G
Smoke developed index, max (foam core) 50 50
A
N/A = not applicable.
B
Apparent Thermal Conductivity tests shall be used for classification purposes only. The thermal conductivity values shown in this table were obtained using Test Method
C518 or C177.
C
Dimensional stability data at lower temperature will be added when testing is complete.
D
No minimum or maximum values are required for Type I material. It is expected roof design will reflect actual building and environmental conditions. Under certain
circumstances a vapor retarder is required.
E
Consult manufacturer for certain application in cold climates where greater permeance values are desirable.
F
This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself
incorporate all factors required for fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under the actual fire conditions.
G
In some cases facings used on composite products cause the flame spread index and smoke developed index of the composite to be significantly different than those
of the foam core itself.
7.3 Not all physical properties at temperatures below −40°F (−40°C) have been fully tested, and the user shall consult the
manufacturer for any properties and performance required at these lower temperatures.
8. Dimensions and Tolerances
8.1 Dimensions—The dimensions shall be as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier, but commonly shall be as
follows:
8.1.1 Type I—Width, 24 in., 36 in., or 48 in. (610 mm, 915 mm, or 1220 mm). Length, 48 in. or larger (1220 mm or larger).
8.1.2 Type II—Width, 48 in. (1220 mm). Length, 96 in. or larger (2440 mm or larger).
8.1.3 Type III—Pipe insulation with dimensions that are in accordance with Practice C585.
8.2 Tolerances—Unless otherwise agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier, the tolerances shall be as follows:
8.2.1 Types I and II— When measured at 73.4 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C) and 50 6 5 % relative humidity, these types shall conform
to the following:
8.2.1.1 Length—Not to exceed 6 ⁄4 in. (66.4 mm).
8.2.1.2 Width—Not to exceed 6 ⁄4 in. (66.4 mm).
8.2.1.3 Thickness—Not to exceed 6 ⁄8 in. (63.1 mm).
8.2.2 Type III—Thicknesses available for various pipe and tube sizes shall be in accordance with Practice C585. The average
measured length shall not differ from the standard dimension of the manufacturer by more than 6 ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm).
C1126 − 19
TABLE 2 Physical Property Requirements
NOTE 1—As Type II insulation is produced with integral vapor retarder facers, the orientation of the facer is important in preventing moisture
penetration into the insulation and the water vapor permeance of the Type II faced insulation is valid as long as the facer does not fail.
A A A A
Type III Type III Type III Type III
Property Unit
Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4
3 3
Density, min lbs/ft (kg ⁄m ) 2 (32) 3.75 (60) 5 (80) 7.5 (120)
Compressive resistance, min (faced or unfaced) at 10 % psi (kPa) 18 (124) 30 (207) 50 (345) 75 (517)
deformation or yield whichever occurs first
Closed cell content minimum % % 90 90 90 90
B
Tensile strength, min (faced) psf (Pa) N/A
Apparent Thermal Btu·in./h·ft ·°F (W/
mK)
C
Conductivity, max
(foam core):
−250°F (−157°C) mean temp. 0.15 (0.021) 0.19 (0.027) 0.2 (0.029) 0.21 (0.030)
−200°F (−129°C) mean temp. 0.16 (0.022) 0.2 (0.029) 0.21 (0.030) 0.22 (0.032)
−150°F (−101°C) mean temp. 0.17 (0.024) 0.21 (0.030) 0.22 (0.032) 0.23 (0.033)
−100°F (−73°C) mean temp. 0.18 (0.026) 0.22 (0.032) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035)
−50°F (−46°C) mean temp. 0.19 (0.028) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035) 0.25 (0.036)
−0°F (−17°C) mean temp. 0.18 (0.026) 0.22 (0.032) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035)
40°F (4°C) mean temp. 0.18 (0.026) 0.22 (0.032) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035)
75°F (24°C) mean temp. 0.18 (0.026) 0.22 (0.032) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035)
110°F (43°C) mean temp. 0.19 (0.028) 0.23 (0.033) 0.24 (0.035) 0.25 (0.036)
150°F (65°C) mean temp. 0.20 (0.029) 0.24 (0.035) 0.25 (0.036) 0.26 (0.037)
200°F (93°C) mean temp. 0.25 (0.036) 0.29 (0.042) 0.3 (0.043) 0.31 (0.045)
D
Dimensional stability, 1 week % lin chg, max
Exposure (foam core):
257 ± 4°F (125 ± 2°C), ambient RH 2 2 2 2
-40 ± 6°F (−40 ± 3°C), ambient RH 2 2 2 2
158 ± 4°F (70 ± 2°C), 97 ± 3 % RH 2 2 2 2
Water absorption, max, (foam core): % by volume 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
Water vapor permeance, perms, (facer only) grains/h·ft ·in.·Hg
(ng/s·m ·Pa)
Water vapor permeability, max, perm-in. (foam core) Perm-inch (ng/ 5.0 (7.2) 5.0 (7.2) 5.0 (7.2) 5.0 (7.2)
s·m·Pa)
E,F
Flame spread index, max (foam core) 25 25 25 25
E,F
Smoke developed index, max (foam core) 50 50 50 50
A
Type III test samples shall be obtained from a free-rise block of foam, except where otherwise specified.
B
N/A = not applicable.
C
Apparent Thermal Conductivity tests shall
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