ASTM C1149-23

Standard Specification for Self-Supported Spray Applied Cellulosic Thermal Insulation

ABSTRACT
This specification covers self-supported spray applied cellulosic thermal insulation for use as thermal insulation or acoustical absorbent material, or both. The chemically-treated cellulosic materials that are also covered in this specification are used for pneumatic applications operating within a specific temperature range. The materials are classified into two types based on the type of adhesive used and exposure of the application. Specimens for testing should be prepared and tested using the prescribed methods and should conform to the specified values of density, thermal resistance, surface bonding characteristics, adhesive strength, cohesive strength, smoldering combustion, fungi resistance, corrosion, moisture vapor absorption, odor, flame resistance permanency, substrate deflection, and air erosion.
SCOPE
1.1 The specification covers the physical properties of self-supported spray applied cellulosic fibers intended for use as thermal insulation or an acoustical absorbent material, or both.  
1.2 This specification covers chemically treated cellulosic materials intended for pneumatic applications where temperatures do not exceed 82.2°C and where temperatures will routinely remain below 65.6°C.  
1.2.1 Type I—Material applied with liquid adhesive and suitable for either exposed or enclosed applications.  
1.2.2 Type II—Materials containing a dry adhesive that is activated by water during installation and intended only for enclosed or covered applications.  
1.3 This is a material specification only and is not intended to deal with methods of application that are supplied by the manufacturer.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
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.  
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: 28-Feb-2023
• ICS: 91.120.10 - Thermal insulation of buildings
• Technical Committee: C16 - Thermal Insulation
• Drafting Committee: C16.23 - Blanket and Loose Fill Insulation

Relations

• 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 E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• 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
• Refers: ASTM E84-19b - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19a - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19 - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-18b - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM E84-18a - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2018
• Refers: ASTM C168-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2018
• Refers: ASTM E84-18 - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM E84-17a - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM E84-17 - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM C168-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2017

Overview

ASTM C1149-23: Standard Specification for Self-Supported Spray Applied Cellulosic Thermal Insulation defines the minimum material requirements and classification for self-supported, spray-applied cellulosic fiber insulation products. Developed by ASTM International, this standard addresses both thermal and acoustical applications, and it is essential for manufacturers, specifiers, and contractors focused on energy efficiency and sound management in building construction. The specification encompasses cellulosic materials that are chemically treated and applied pneumatically, ensuring consistent performance in operating temperatures up to 82.2°C, with a recommended routine maximum of 65.6°C.

This document establishes the criteria for two main types of cellulosic spray insulation, focusing on material performance, safety, and environmental considerations. It is a material specification only; installation procedures are governed by manufacturer instructions and relevant codes.

Key Topics

• Material Types:
  • Type I: Utilizes a liquid adhesive and is suitable for both exposed and enclosed applications.
  • Type II: Contains a dry adhesive activated by water during installation; limited to enclosed or covered uses.
• Physical and Performance Requirements:
  • Density and thermal resistance must align with manufacturer specifications.
  • Surface burning characteristics are addressed, with strict limits on flame spread and smoke development.
  • Insulation must demonstrate sufficient adhesive and cohesive strength based on application type.
  • Resistance to smoldering combustion, fungi, corrosion, and moisture absorption is required.
  • Insulation products should not emit strong or objectionable odors.
  • Type I products include additional tests for substrate deflection and air erosion.
• Testing Protocols:
  • Follow methods outlined in referenced ASTM standards for properties such as thermal resistance (C177, C518, C1363), fungi resistance (C1338), surface burning (E84), and cohesion/adhesion (E736).
• Packaging and Storage:
  • Products must be delivered in unopened, labeled manufacturer packaging and stored dry and clean before use.

Applications

Self-supported spray-applied cellulosic thermal insulation is used to provide both thermal insulation and acoustical absorbency in new and existing buildings. Its applications include:

• Insulating walls, ceilings, and structural cavities to improve energy efficiency and indoor comfort
• Enhancing sound absorption in facilities requiring noise control, such as schools, theaters, and commercial buildings
• Retrofitting existing structures for improved thermal or acoustic performance
• Situations where installation requires materials to maintain integral support on substrates or within cavities

The non-corrosive, fungi-resistant, and flame-retardant nature of these materials makes them suitable for a wide range of environments. Products covered by ASTM C1149-23 are especially valued in sustainable building projects utilizing recycled fibers for improved environmental performance.

Related Standards

This specification references several other important ASTM standards that form part of the test and evaluation regime for spray-applied cellulosic insulation:

• ASTM C168: Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
• ASTM C177, C518, C1363: Test methods for measuring thermal transmission and performance
• ASTM E84: Surface Burning Characteristics
• ASTM E605, E736: Density, thickness, cohesion/adhesion tests
• ASTM C1338: Fungi Resistance
• ASTM E759, E859: Substrate deflection and air erosion
• ASTM B152: Copper test materials for corrosion testing

Employing ASTM C1149-23 in your project ensures materials meet rigorous quality, safety, and performance standards, supporting regulatory compliance and building occupant safety for thermal insulation and acoustical applications.

Keywords: ASTM C1149-23, spray-applied cellulosic insulation, self-supported thermal insulation, acoustical absorbent, thermal resistance, building insulation standards, energy efficiency, flame resistance, corrosion resistance.

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: C1149 − 23
Standard Specification for
Self-Supported Spray Applied Cellulosic Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1149; 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 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 The specification covers the physical properties of 2.1 ASTM Standards:
self-supported spray applied cellulosic fibers intended for use C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
as thermal insulation or an acoustical absorbent material, or C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measure-
both. ments and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of
the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
1.2 This specification covers chemically treated cellulosic
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
materials intended for pneumatic applications where tempera-
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
tures do not exceed 82.2°C and where temperatures will
C1338 Test Method for Determining Fungi Resistance of
routinely remain below 65.6°C.
Insulation Materials and Facings
1.2.1 Type I—Material applied with liquid adhesive and
C1363 Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building
suitable for either exposed or enclosed applications.
Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot
1.2.2 Type II—Materials containing a dry adhesive that is
Box Apparatus
activated by water during installation and intended only for
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
enclosed or covered applications.
Building Materials
1.3 This is a material specification only and is not intended
E605 Test Methods for Thickness and Density of Sprayed
to deal with methods of application that are supplied by the
Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM) Applied to Structural
manufacturer.
Members
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as E736 Test Method for Cohesion/Adhesion of Sprayed Fire-
Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
E759 Test Method for Effect of Deflection on Sprayed
standard.
Fire-Resistive Material Applied to Structural Members
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
E859 Test Method for Air Erosion of Sprayed Fire-Resistive
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Materials (SFRMs) Applied to Structural Members
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3. Terminology
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 Definitions—Definitions in Terminology C168 shall ap-
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
ply in this specification.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.2.1 constant mass—no change in successive weighings in
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
excess of 0.5 % of specimen mass taken at 4-h intervals unless
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
otherwise specified.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.2.2 cured—the state of the finished product after it has
achieved constant mass.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on
Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.23 on
Blanket and Loose Fill Insulation. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2023. Published April 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as C1149 – 17. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C1149-23. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1149 − 23
3.2.3 curing—the process in which the liquid vehicle is growth than the control in at least two of the three replicate
removed. Normally achieved in ambient building conditions specimens. (See Test Method C1338.)
with forced air convection to hasten the evaporation process.
4.8 Corrosion—Type I and Type II products, when tested in
3.2.4 prepared sample—samples prepared in accordance accordance with 6.7, shall demonstrate no perforations in the
with Section 5 and cured to constant mass prior to conducting 3-mil metal coupons when observed in close proximity to a
the specific tests. The prepared samples, after reaching constant 40-W appliance light bulb. Notches extending less than 3 mm
mass, as defined in 3.2.1, shall have a density within 610 % of into the coupon edge can be ignored.
the manufacturer’s recommended design density.
4.9 Moisture Vapor Absorption—Moisture absorption of
3.2.5 self supporting—a product that can be tested by the Type I and Type II products shall be no more than 15 % when
criteria imposed by this specification and that will require no
tested in accordance with 6.8.
support other than itself or the substrate to which it is attached.
4.10 Odor—Type I and Type II, applied products shall have
3.2.6 specimen—definition of specimen as used in this
no strong, objectionable odor when tested in accordance with
specification shall be the same as that for prepared sample in 6.9.
3.2.4.
4.11 Additional Characteristics for Type I Product:
3.2.7 sprayed fiber—chemically treated cellulosic materials, 4.11.1 Substrate Deflection—Type I applied product shall
that are pneumatically conveyed and mixed with water or not spall, crack, or delaminate when tested in accordance with
adhesive, or both, at the spray nozzle and become self-
6.11 of this specification.
supporting when cured. 4.11.2 Air Erosion—Report the results of the air erosion test
described in 6.10 of this specification for Type I applied
4. Physical Properties product.
4.1 Materials and Manufacture:
5. Specimen Preparation
4.1.1 The basic material shall consist of virgin or recycled
5.1 Prepare specimens using manufacturer’s recommended
wood based cellulosic fiber.
equipment and procedures and at manufacturer’s maximum
4.1.2 Suitable chemicals shall be introduced to provide
recommended thickness. Cure specimens to constant mass at
flame resistance, improved processing, adhesive/cohesive
23 6 3°C and 50 6 5 % relative humidity unless otherwise
properties, and handling and application characteristics.
specified in a specific test procedure. All specimens shall be
4.1.3 The basic material shall be processed into a form
within 610 % of the manufacturer’s recommended installation
suitable for installation by pneumatic conveying equipment
density.
and the simultaneous mixing with liquid at the spray nozzle.
6. Test Methods
4.2 Density—Type I and Type II samples shall be within
610 % of the manufacturer’s stated values when tested in 6.1 Density—Density of each sample shall be determined in
accordance with Test Methods E605.
accordance with 6.1.
6.2 Surface Burning Characteristics—The surface burning
4.3 Thermal Resistance—Type I and Type II samples shall
characteristics of Type I and Type II products shall be deter-
be within 610 % of the manufacturer’s stated values when
mined in accordance with Test Method E84.
tested in accordance with 6.4.
6.3 Adhesive/Cohesive Strength—The adhesive/cohesive
4.4 Surface Burning Characteristics—Type I and Type II
strength of the spray applied fiber insulation shall be deter-
samples shall have a maximum flame spread rating of 25 and
mined in accordance with Test Method E736.
a maximum smoke developed rating of 50 when tested in
accordance with 6.2.
6.4 Thermal Resistance—Samples shall be prepared as in
Section 5. The thermal resistance of the spray applied cellu-
4.5 Adhesive/Cohesive Strength:
losic fiber insulation shall be as determined by the average of
4.5.1 Type I—The applied material shall have a minimum
four specimens tested in accordance with Test Methods C177,
adhesive/cohesive bond strength per unit area of five times the
C518, or C1363. The referee method shall be Test Method
weight of the material under the test plate when tested in
C177. When Test Method C518 or C177 is used, the surface
accordance with Test Method E736.
irregularities will be trimmed to provide uniform thickness.
4.5.2 Type II—The applied product shall have a minimum
When the hot box method is used, the test will be on the
adhesive/cohesive bond strength per unit area of two times the
insulation component only or alternatively; if tested as a
weight of the material under the test plate when tested in
system, the results reported shall include all components of
accordance with Test Method E736.
system evaluated.
4.6 Smoldering Combustion—Type I and Type II products,
6.5 Smoldering Combustion:
when tested in accordance with 6.5, shall have a weight loss no
6.5.1 Scope—This test method determines the resistance of
greater than 15 % of the specimen weight and shall exhibit no
the insulation to smolder, under specific laboratory conditions.
evidence of flaming.
6.5.2 Significance and Use—Insulation materials that read-
4.7 Fungi Resistance—Type I and Type II products, when ily smolder could have an adverse effect on the surrounding
tested in accordance with 6.6, shall not promote more fungal structure in the event of exposure to fire or heat sources.
C1149 − 23
6.5.3 Apparatus for Smoldering Combustion Test: 6.5.7.6 With the specimen in the specimen holder and
6.5.3.1 Specimen Holder—The specimen holder shall be an placed on the insulation pad, insert well-lighted cigarette,
open-top 203 6 2 mm square box, 100 6 2 mm in height, burned no more than 8 mm, into the formed cavity, with the
fabricated from 18 United States standard gage stainless steel lighted end upward and flush with the specimen surface. Place
sheet with the vertical edges of the box overlapped, not to the specimen in the test chamber and allow burning of the
exceed 7 mm in seam width, and joined to be watertight. cigarette to proceed undisturbed for at least 1 h, after which,
6.5.3.2 Specimen Holder Pad—During the test the specimen allow specimen to remain until there is no evidence of heat or
holder shall rest upon a pad of unfaced glass fiberboard having smoke and the bottom of the specimen holder is cool to the
dimensions equal to the bottom of the specimen holder. The touch.
glass fiberboard shall be approximately 25 mm thick, with a 6.5.7.7 After the specimen has cooled to less than 25°C,
density of 40 6 4 kg/m. weigh to the nearest 0.2 g and subtract the tare weight
6.5.3.3 Laboratory Scales, capable of weighing the speci- determined in 6.5.7.1 to arrive at the final net weight, (W ).
men holder and sample with an accuracy of 6 0.2 g. 6.5.8 Calculation—Calculate percent weight loss as fol-
6.5.3.4 Drill Press, with vertical movement capabilities in lows:
excess of 114 mm and fitted with an 8 mm diameter drill bit
WL 5 $W 2 W %/W × 100 (1)
~ !
1 2 1
with a minimum usable length of 102 mm when chucked.
where:
6.5.3.5 Ignition Source—The ignition source shall be the
Current Supply of National Institute of Standards and Tech-
WL = weight loss, %,
nology (NIST) Standard Reference Material (SRM) 1196 W = weight of specimen before test, g, and
Standard Cigarette for Ignition Resistance Testing. W = final weight of specimen at completion of test, g.
6.5.4 Sampling—Three specimens per sample shall be
6.5.9 Retest—If all three specimens pass, the insulation
tested.
passes. If more than one fail, the insulation is rejected. If any
6.5.5 Conditioning—Sample shall be allowed to dry at 23 6
one of the three specimens fails, conduct a retest consisting of
3°C and 50 6 5 % relative humidity until constant mass is
three additional specimens. If one of the three retest specimens
achieved.
fails, the insulation is rejected.
6.5.6 Test Chamber—A draft-protected chamber or hood
6.5.10 Results of test: Pass/Fail.
with a suitable exhaust system to remove products of combus-
6.5.11 Precision and Bias The precision and bias of this test
tion. Air velocities shall not exceed 0.5 m/s in the vicinity of
method has not been determined.
the specimen surface when measured by a hot wire anemom-
6.6 Fungi Resistance:
eter.
6.6.1 The fungi resistance of the insulation shall be deter-
6.5.7 Procedure:
mined in accordance with Test Method C1338.
6.5.7.1 Determine tare weight of specimen holder and
6.6.2 Sampling—Unless specified by the purchaser, one
fiberglass shim (after drilling) to nearest 0.2 g and record
specimen shall be selected from each of three different bags or
weight (see 6.5.7.4).
other packages of insulation, as applicable.
6.5.7.2 After conditioning in accordance with 6.5.5, cut
6.6.3 Conditioning—Condition the specimens per 6.5.5.
specimens 203 by 203 6 2 mm square to fit snugly inside the
6.6.4 Preparation of Test Samples—For Type I materials,
specimen holder.
determine the amount of liquid adhesive concentrate that
6.5.7.3 After cutting specimen to the correct size, drill a
would be mixed with 10 g of dry material. To this adhesive,
hole through the thickness of the specimen at the center. Use a
add sufficient water to make 37.5 mL of solution. Thoroughly
drill press and steel drill bit described in 6.5.3.4.
mix the 10 g sample and water/adhesive solution. For Type II
6.5.7.4 Insert drilled specimen level with top edge of
material, add 37.5 mL of water to a 10 g sample of the dry
specimen holder. If required, provide a shim of unfaced
material and thoroughly mix. Aseptically transfer approxi-
fiberglass (approximate 8.01 kg/m ) under the specimen that is
mately one-third of the insulation mix to each of three sterile
cut to fit holder and center drilled to align with specimen.
petri dishes and gently tamp down to a relatively smooth
Carefully cut excess material extending above the top edge of
surface to facilitate subsequent microscopic examination.
the specimen holder. A reciprocating electric knife or saw has
6.6.5 A section of untreated southern yellow pine is the
been found suitable. Take care that the center drilled hole is
comparative item.
free of debris and if the shim pad is used, that the hole is
6.6.6 Perform inoculation of test specimen and comparative
aligned through specimen and pad.
item per Test Method C1338.
6.5.7.5 Weigh specimen and specimen holder, subtract
6.6.7 Complete test per Test Method C1338.
weight of empty specimen holder and fiberglass shim if used.
6.6.8 Report results as specified in Section 8, Test Method
Record this as the starting weight of the specimen, (W ).
C1338.
Calculate the density of the specimen to the nearest 1.6 kg/m ;
6.7 Corrosion:
density shall be within 6 10 % of the manufacturer’s design
6.7.1 Scope—This test method provides a basis for estimat-
density.
ing the corrosiveness of spray-applied cellulosic insulation.
6.7.2 Significance and Use—This test method provides a
The Current Supply of SRM 1196 Series Cigarettes are available from National
basis for estimating the corrosiveness of spray-applied cellu-
Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2322, Gaithersburg,
MD 20899-2322. losic insulation in contact with steel, copper, and aluminum test
C1149 − 23
materials. The test method represents one set of exposure 6.7.5.1 For each metal coupon, subdivide a 20 g sample of
conditions designed to accelerate possible corrosive effects, insulation into two 10 g portions. For Type I materials:
and is not intended to simulate exposure conditions experi- determine the amount of liquid adhesive concentrate that
enced in actual field applications. would be mixed with 10 g of dry material. To this adhesive,
add sufficient water to make 75 mL of solution for each 10 g
6.7.3 Apparatus and Materials:
sample. For Type II materials: since the dry adhesive is already
6.7.3.1 Humidity Chamber (Test Method A), air-circulating,
present, no special preparation is required. Presaturate each 10
capable of maintaining a temperature of 48.9 6 1.7°C and 95
6 3 % relative humidity throughout the active portion of the g portion with 75 mL of water for Type II materials (or 75 mL
of adhesive/water solution for Type I materials). Place one
chamber.
presaturated 10 g portion into a crystallizing dish on the metal
6.7.3.2 Oven (Test Method B), air circulating, capable of
coupon and tamp the composite specimen (metal coupon and
maintaining a temperature of 48.9 6 1.7°C throu
...

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: C1149 − 17 C1149 − 23
Standard Specification for
Self-Supported Spray Applied Cellulosic Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1149; 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 The specification covers the physical properties of self-supported spray applied cellulosic fibers intended for use as thermal
insulation or an acoustical absorbent material, or both.
1.2 This specification covers chemically treated cellulosic materials intended for pneumatic applications where temperatures do
not exceed 82.2°C and where temperatures will routinely remain below 65.6°C.
1.2.1 Type I—Material applied with liquid adhesive and suitable for either exposed or enclosed applications.
1.2.2 Type II—Materials containing a dry adhesive that is activated by water during installation and intended only for enclosed
or covered applications.
1.3 This is a material specification only and is not intended to deal with methods of application that are supplied by the
manufacturer.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
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.
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:
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
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
C1338 Test Method for Determining Fungi Resistance of Insulation Materials and Facings
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.23 on Blanket and Loose
Fill Insulation.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2017March 1, 2023. Published October 2017April 2023. Originally approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 20112017 as
C1149 – 11.C1149 – 17. DOI: 10.1520/C1149-17.10.1520/C1149-23.
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
C1149 − 23
C1363 Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building Materials and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E605 Test Methods for Thickness and Density of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM) Applied to Structural Members
E736 Test Method for Cohesion/Adhesion of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members
E759 Test Method for Effect of Deflection on Sprayed Fire-Resistive Material Applied to Structural Members
E859 Test Method for Air Erosion of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials (SFRMs) Applied to Structural Members
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Definitions in Terminology C168 shall apply in this specification.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 constant mass—no change in successive weighings in excess of 0.5 % of specimen mass taken at 4-h intervals unless
otherwise specified.
3.2.2 cured—the state of the finished product after it has achieved constant mass.
3.2.3 curing—the process in which the liquid vehicle is removed. Normally achieved in ambient building conditions with forced
air convection to hasten the evaporation process.
3.2.4 prepared sample—samples prepared in accordance with Section 5 and cured to constant mass prior to conducting the specific
tests. The prepared samples, after reaching constant mass, as defined in 3.2.1, shall have a density within 610 % of the
manufacturer’s recommended design density.
3.2.5 self supporting—a product that can be tested by the criteria imposed by this specification and that will require no support
other than itself or the substrate to which it is attached.
3.2.6 specimen—definition of specimen as used in this specification shall be the same as that for prepared sample in 3.2.4.
3.2.7 sprayed fiber—chemically treated cellulosic materials, that are pneumatically conveyed and mixed with water or adhesive,
or both, at the spray nozzle and become self-supporting when cured.
4. Physical Properties
4.1 Materials and Manufacture:
4.1.1 The basic material shall consist of virgin or recycled wood based cellulosic fiber.
4.1.2 Suitable chemicals shall be introduced to provide flame resistance, improved processing, adhesive/cohesive properties, and
handling and application characteristics.
4.1.3 The basic material shall be processed into a form suitable for installation by pneumatic conveying equipment and the
simultaneous mixing with liquid at the spray nozzle.
4.2 Density—Type I and Type II samples shall be within 610 % of the manufacturer’s stated values when tested in accordance
with 6.1.
4.3 Thermal Resistance—Type I and Type II samples shall be within 610 % of the manufacturer’s stated values when tested in
accordance with 6.4.
4.4 Surface Burning Characteristics—Type I and Type II samples shall have a maximum flame spread rating of 25 and a maximum
smoke developed rating of 50 when tested in accordance with 6.2.
4.5 Adhesive/Cohesive Strength:
4.5.1 Type I—The applied material shall have a minimum adhesive/cohesive bond strength per unit area of five times the weight
of the material under the test plate when tested in accordance with Test Method E736.
C1149 − 23
4.5.2 Type II—The applied product shall have a minimum adhesive/cohesive bond strength per unit area of two times the weight
of the material under the test plate when tested in accordance with Test Method E736.
4.6 Smoldering Combustion—Type I and Type II products, when tested in accordance with 6.5, shall have a weight loss no greater
than 15 % of the specimen weight and shall exhibit no evidence of flaming.
4.7 Fungi Resistance—Type I and Type II products, when tested in accordance with 6.6, shall not promote more fungal growth
than the control in at least two of the three replicate specimens. (See Test Method C1338.)
4.8 Corrosion—Type I and Type II products, when tested in accordance with 6.7, shall demonstrate no perforations in the 3-mil
metal coupons when observed in close proximity to a 40-W appliance light bulb. Notches extending less than 3 mm into the coupon
edge can be ignored.
4.9 Moisture Vapor Absorption—Moisture absorption of Type I and Type II products shall be no more than 15 % when tested in
accordance with 6.8.
4.10 Odor—Type I and Type II, applied products shall have no strong, objectionable odor when tested in accordance with 6.9.
4.11 Additional Characteristics for Type I Product:
4.11.1 Substrate Deflection—Type I applied product shall not spall, crack, or delaminate when tested in accordance with 6.11 of
this specification.
4.11.2 Air Erosion—Report the results of the air erosion test described in 6.10 of this specification for Type I applied product.
5. Specimen Preparation
5.1 Prepare specimens using manufacturer’s recommended equipment and procedures and at manufacturer’s maximum
recommended thickness. Cure specimens to constant mass at 23 6 3°C and 50 6 5 % relative humidity unless otherwise specified
in a specific test procedure. All specimens shall be within 610 % of the manufacturer’s recommended installation density.
6. Test Methods
6.1 Density—Density of each sample shall be determined in accordance with Test Methods E605.
6.2 Surface Burning Characteristics—The surface burning characteristics of Type I and Type II products shall be determined in
accordance with Test Method E84.
6.3 Adhesive/Cohesive Strength—The adhesive/cohesive strength of the spray applied fiber insulation shall be determined in
accordance with Test Method E736.
6.4 Thermal Resistance—Samples shall be prepared as in Section 5. The thermal resistance of the spray applied cellulosic fiber
insulation shall be as determined by the average of four specimens tested in accordance with Test Methods C177, C518, or C1363.
The referee method shall be Test Method C177. When Test Method C518 or C177 is used, the surface irregularities will be trimmed
to provide uniform thickness. When the hot box method is used, the test will be on the insulation component only or alternatively;
if tested as a system, the results reported shall include all components of system evaluated.
6.5 Smoldering Combustion:
6.5.1 Scope—This test method determines the resistance of the insulation to smolder, under specific laboratory conditions.
6.5.2 Significance and Use—Insulation materials that readily smolder could have an adverse effect on the surrounding structure
in the event of exposure to fire or heat sources.
C1149 − 23
6.5.3 Apparatus for Smoldering Combustion Test:
6.5.3.1 Specimen Holder—The specimen holder shall be an open-top 203 6 2 mm square box, 100 6 2 mm in height, fabricated
from 18 United States standard gage stainless steel sheet with the vertical edges of the box overlapped, not to exceed 7 mm in seam
width, and joined to be watertight.
6.5.3.2 Specimen Holder Pad—During the test the specimen holder shall rest upon a pad of unfaced glass fiberboard having
dimensions equal to the bottom of the specimen holder. The glass fiberboard shall be approximately 25 mm thick, with a density
of 40 6 4 kg/m.
6.5.3.3 Laboratory Scales, capable of weighing the specimen holder and sample with an accuracy of 6 0.2 g.
6.5.3.4 Drill Press, with vertical movement capabilities in excess of 114 mm and fitted with an 8 mm diameter drill bit with a
minimum usable length of 102 mm when chucked.
6.5.3.5 Ignition Source—The ignition source shall be a cigarette without filter tip made from natural tobacco, 85 6 2 mm long
with a tobacco packing density of 0.27 6 0.0020 g/cm and a total weight of 1.1 6 0.2 g.the Current Supply of National Institute
of Standards and Technology (NIST) Standard Reference Material (SRM) 1196 Standard Cigarette for Ignition Resistance Testing.
6.5.4 Sampling—Three specimens per sample shall be tested.
6.5.5 Conditioning—Sample shall be allowed to dry at 23 6 3°C and 50 6 5 % relative humidity until constant mass is achieved.
6.5.6 Test Chamber—A draft-protected chamber or hood with a suitable exhaust system to remove products of combustion. Air
velocities shall not exceed 0.5 m/s in the vicinity of the specimen surface when measured by a hot wire anemometer.
6.5.7 Procedure:
6.5.7.1 Determine tare weight of specimen holder and fiberglass shim (after drilling) to nearest 0.2 g and record weight (see
6.5.7.4).
6.5.7.2 After conditioning in accordance with 6.5.5, cut specimens 203 by 203 6 2 mm square to fit snugly inside the specimen
holder.
6.5.7.3 After cutting specimen to the correct size, drill a hole through the thickness of the specimen at the center. Use a drill press
and steel drill bit described in 6.5.3.4.
6.5.7.4 Insert drilled specimen level with top edge of specimen holder. If required, provide a shim of unfaced fiberglass
(approximate 8.01 kg/m ) under the specimen that is cut to fit holder and center drilled to align with specimen. Carefully cut excess
material extending above the top edge of the specimen holder. A reciprocating electric knife or saw has been found suitable. Take
care that the center drilled hole is free of debris and if the shim pad is used, that the hole is aligned through specimen and pad.
6.5.7.5 Weigh specimen and specimen holder, subtract weight of empty specimen holder and fiberglass shim if used. Record this
as the starting weight of the specimen, (W ). Calculate the density of the specimen to the nearest 1.6 kg/m ; density shall be within
6 10 % of the manufacturer’s design density.
6.5.7.6 With the specimen in the specimen holder and placed on the insulation pad, insert well-lighted cigarette, burned no more
than 8 mm, into the formed cavity, with the lighted end upward and flush with the specimen surface. Place the specimen in the
test chamber and allow burning of the cigarette to proceed undisturbed for at least 1 h, after which, allow specimen to remain until
there is no evidence of heat or smoke and the bottom of the specimen holder is cool to the touch.
6.5.7.7 After the specimen has cooled to less than 25°C, weigh to the nearest 0.2 g and subtract the tare weight determined in
6.5.7.1 to arrive at the final net weight, (W ).
6.5.8 Calculation—Calculate percent weight loss as follows:
The Current Supply of SRM 1196 Series Cigarettes are available from National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2322, Gaithersburg, MD
20899-2322.
C1149 − 23
WL 5 W 2 W /W ×100 (1)
$ %
~ 1 2 1!
where:
WL = weight loss, %,
W = weight of specimen before test, g, and
W = final weight of specimen at completion of test, g.
6.5.9 Retest—If all three specimens pass, the insulation passes. If more than one fail, the insulation is rejected. If any one of the
three specimens fails, conduct a retest consisting of three additional specimens. If one of the three retest specimens fails, the
insulation is rejected.
6.5.10 Results of test: Pass/Fail.
6.5.11 Precision and Bias The precision and bias of this test method has not been determined.
6.6 Fungi Resistance:
6.6.1 The fungi resistance of the insulation shall be determined in accordance with Test Method C1338.
6.6.2 Sampling—Unless specified by the purchaser, one specimen shall be selected from each of three different bags or other
packages of insulation, as applicable.
6.6.3 Conditioning—Condition the specimens per 6.5.5.
6.6.4 Preparation of Test Samples—For Type I materials, determine the amount of liquid adhesive concentrate that would be mixed
with 10 g of dry material. To this adhesive, add sufficient water to make 37.5 mL of solution. Thoroughly mix the 10 g sample
and water/adhesive solution. For Type II material, add 37.5 mL of water to a 10 g sample of the dry material and thoroughly mix.
Aseptically transfer approximately one-third of the insulation mix to each of three sterile petri dishes and gently tamp down to a
relatively smooth surface to facilitate subsequent microscopic examination.
6.6.5 A section of untreated southern yellow pine is the comparative item.
6.6.6 Perform inoculation of test specimen and comparative item per Test Method C1338.
6.6.7 Complete test per Test Method C1338.
6.6.8 Report results as specified in Section 8, Test Method C1338.
6.7 Corrosion:
6.7.1 Scope—This test method provides a basis for estimating the corrosiveness of spray-applied cellulosic insulation.
6.7.2 Significance and Use—This test method provides a basis for estimating the corrosiveness of spray-applied cellulosic
insulation in contact with steel, copper, and aluminum test materials. The test method represents one set of exposure conditions
designed to accelerate possible corrosive effects, and is not intended to simulate exposure conditions experienced in actual field
applications.
6.7.3 Apparatus and Materials:
6.7.3.1 Humidity Chamber (Test Method A), air-circulating, capable of maintaining a temperature of 48.9 6 1.7°C and 95 6 3 %
relative humidity throughout the active portion of the chamber.
6.7.3.2 Oven (Test Method B), air circulating, capable of maintaining a temperature of 48.9 6 1.7°C throughout the active portion
of the chamber.
6.7.3.3 Crystallizing Dishes, six, glass, 90 mm in diameter by 50 mm in height.
C1149 − 23
6.7.3.4 Containers, six, glass, polyethylene or polypropylene, with screw cap or friction top lid capable of sealing, 127 mm in
normal diameter and 76 mm in nominal height. Rubber gloves, clean and in good condition.
6.7.3.5 Chemicals—Reagent grade chemicals shall be used in all test. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that all re
...