ASTM C516-19
(Specification)Standard Specification for Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation
Standard Specification for Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation
ABSTRACT
This specification covers the chemical and physical property requirements and acceptability testing procedures of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose fill thermal insulation. This also includes vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for use in installations where liquid moisture may be a factor. Vermiculite insulation is specified by two types according to treatments and five classes according to the range of particle size distribution. The insulation should conform to the specified values of bulk density, grading, water properties, thermal resistance, moisture absorption, combustibility, and surface-burning characteristics. Tests to determine the physical properties should also be in accordance with the specified test procedures.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical properties of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose-fill insulation. The specification also includes the testing procedures by which the acceptability of the material shall be determined. These testing procedures deal primarily with material performance in the temperature range associated with the thermal envelope of buildings; however, the commercially usable temperature range for this insulation is from –119 to 850°F (–84 to 454°C). Refer to manufacturer's instructions for specialized applications.
1.2 The specification also covers the composition and properties of vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for installations.
1.3 When the installation or use of thermal insulation materials, accessories, and systems may pose safety or health problems, the manufacturer shall provide the user with appropriate current information regarding any known problems associated with the recommended use of the company's products, and shall also recommend protective measures to be employed in their safe utilization.
1.4 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. 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 actual fire conditions.
1.5 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.
1.6 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.
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 9, of this specification: 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 hazard statements, see Section 12.
1.8 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
- 14-Apr-2019
- Technical Committee
- C16 - Thermal Insulation
- Drafting Committee
- C16.23 - Blanket and Loose Fill Insulation
Relations
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2018
Overview
ASTM C516-19: Standard Specification for Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation establishes chemical and physical property requirements, as well as acceptability testing procedures, for expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose fill thermal insulation. This specification is applicable to vermiculite insulation products used for thermal insulation in building envelopes, and further includes products that are surface-treated to provide water repellency for conditions where liquid moisture may be a factor. Vermiculite insulation covered by ASTM C516-19 is classified by two types (based on treatment) and five grades (based on particle size and bulk density), ensuring a structured approach for quality, performance, and safe usage.
Key Topics
Types and Grades
- Type I: Standard expanded or exfoliated vermiculite.
- Type II: Vermiculite treated for water repellency.
- Five grades (0–Premium to 4–Super Fine): Defined by bulk density and particle size distribution, supporting diverse thermal and installation requirements.
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Specifies limits on bulk density, particle size grading, thermal resistance, moisture absorption, combustibility, and surface burning characteristics.
- Ensures conformity through standardized testing procedures.
Thermal Performance
- Specifies R-value requirements at 1-inch thickness and various mean temperatures, supporting effective thermal insulation performance across a broad temperature range from –119 to 850°F (–84 to 454°C).
Water Repellency
- Type II vermiculite is surface-treated, meeting minimum water repellency requirements and limiting moisture absorption in both liquid and vapor states.
Fire Safety & Combustibility
- Noncombustible criteria per ASTM E136.
- Surface burning characteristics as per ASTM E84, important for use in building envelope assemblies.
Sampling, Testing, and Marking
- Standardized methods for sampling (ASTM C390), density (ASTM C520), grading (ASTM C136), and insulation thermal properties (ASTM C177, C518).
- Clear labeling requirements for bulk containers, including relevant R-value charts and installation instructions.
Applications
Building Thermal Insulation
- Used as loose-fill insulation in ceilings, attics, cavity walls, and confined spaces within the building envelope.
- Ideal for commercial, residential, and institutional buildings seeking cost-effective, inorganic, noncombustible insulation solutions.
Moisture-Prone Installations
- Type II vermiculite is especially suited for locations where water intrusion is possible, such as foundations or wall areas exposed to moisture.
Retrofitting and Renovation
- Loose fill properties support easy installation in existing structures, making it a practical choice for retrofitting insulation in older buildings without major modifications.
Sustainable, Noncombustible Choice
- Vermiculite is an inorganic mineral, offering fire-resistant and environmentally durable insulation for safe, long-term performance.
Related Standards
- ASTM C136: Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
- ASTM C168: Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
- ASTM C177: Test Method for Heat Flux and Thermal Transmission by Guarded-Hot-Plate
- ASTM C390: Sampling and Acceptance of Thermal Insulation
- ASTM C518: Measuring Thermal Transmission Properties by Heat Flow Meter
- ASTM C520: Density of Granular Loose Fill Insulations
- ASTM E84: Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
- ASTM E136: Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace
Practical Value
ASTM C516-19 provides a reliable framework for specifying, testing, and using vermiculite loose-fill thermal insulation in a variety of building projects. Adherence to this standard assures stakeholders of product quality, safe installation practices, and appropriate performance in terms of thermal resistance, fire safety, and moisture management. Use of properly specified and tested vermiculite insulation can help reduce energy costs, enhance occupant comfort, and contribute to a building's overall durability and fire safety profile.
Keywords: Vermiculite insulation, ASTM C516, loose fill insulation, thermal resistance, water repellency, fire safety, inorganic insulation, building envelope.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C516-19 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers the chemical and physical property requirements and acceptability testing procedures of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose fill thermal insulation. This also includes vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for use in installations where liquid moisture may be a factor. Vermiculite insulation is specified by two types according to treatments and five classes according to the range of particle size distribution. The insulation should conform to the specified values of bulk density, grading, water properties, thermal resistance, moisture absorption, combustibility, and surface-burning characteristics. Tests to determine the physical properties should also be in accordance with the specified test procedures. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical properties of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose-fill insulation. The specification also includes the testing procedures by which the acceptability of the material shall be determined. These testing procedures deal primarily with material performance in the temperature range associated with the thermal envelope of buildings; however, the commercially usable temperature range for this insulation is from –119 to 850°F (–84 to 454°C). Refer to manufacturer's instructions for specialized applications. 1.2 The specification also covers the composition and properties of vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for installations. 1.3 When the installation or use of thermal insulation materials, accessories, and systems may pose safety or health problems, the manufacturer shall provide the user with appropriate current information regarding any known problems associated with the recommended use of the company's products, and shall also recommend protective measures to be employed in their safe utilization. 1.4 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. 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 actual fire conditions. 1.5 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. 1.6 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. 1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 9, of this specification: 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 hazard statements, see Section 12. 1.8 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.
ABSTRACT This specification covers the chemical and physical property requirements and acceptability testing procedures of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose fill thermal insulation. This also includes vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for use in installations where liquid moisture may be a factor. Vermiculite insulation is specified by two types according to treatments and five classes according to the range of particle size distribution. The insulation should conform to the specified values of bulk density, grading, water properties, thermal resistance, moisture absorption, combustibility, and surface-burning characteristics. Tests to determine the physical properties should also be in accordance with the specified test procedures. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical properties of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose-fill insulation. The specification also includes the testing procedures by which the acceptability of the material shall be determined. These testing procedures deal primarily with material performance in the temperature range associated with the thermal envelope of buildings; however, the commercially usable temperature range for this insulation is from –119 to 850°F (–84 to 454°C). Refer to manufacturer's instructions for specialized applications. 1.2 The specification also covers the composition and properties of vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency for installations. 1.3 When the installation or use of thermal insulation materials, accessories, and systems may pose safety or health problems, the manufacturer shall provide the user with appropriate current information regarding any known problems associated with the recommended use of the company's products, and shall also recommend protective measures to be employed in their safe utilization. 1.4 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. 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 actual fire conditions. 1.5 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. 1.6 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. 1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 9, of this specification: 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 hazard statements, see Section 12. 1.8 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.
ASTM C516-19 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.60 - Thermal and sound insulating materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C516-19 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C516-08(2013)e1, ASTM C168-24, ASTM C390-08(2024), ASTM E136-24a, ASTM E136-24, ASTM E84-23d, ASTM E84-23c, ASTM C520-15(2020), ASTM C390-08(2019), ASTM E84-19b, ASTM E84-19a, ASTM E84-19, ASTM E136-19, ASTM E84-18b, ASTM E84-18a. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C516-19 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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:C516 −19
Standard Specification for
Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C516; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and are not considered standard.
1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical
properties of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose-fill
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the
insulation. The specification also includes the testing proce-
test methods portion, Section 9, of this specification: This
dures by which the acceptability of the material shall be
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
determined. These testing procedures deal primarily with
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
material performance in the temperature range associated with
of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and
the thermal envelope of buildings; however, the commercially
environmental practices and determine the applicability of
usable temperature range for this insulation is from –119 to
regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard
850°F (–84 to 454°C). Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for
statements, see Section 12.
specialized applications.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.2 The specification also covers the composition and prop-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
erties of vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
water repellency for installations.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3 When the installation or use of thermal insulation mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
materials, accessories, and systems may pose safety or health
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
problems, the manufacturer shall provide the user with appro-
priate current information regarding any known problems
2. Referenced Documents
associated with the recommended use of the company’s
2.1 ASTM Standards:
products, and shall also recommend protective measures to be
C136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse
employed in their safe utilization.
Aggregates
1.4 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
Method E136. This standard is used to measure and describe
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measure-
the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and
ments and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of
flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself
the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk
C390 Practice for Sampling and Acceptance of Thermal
assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under
Insulation Lots
actual fire conditions.
C518 Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
1.5 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus
Method E136. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate
C520 Test Methods for Density of Granular Loose Fill
safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in
Insulations
conducting these tests.
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
Building Materials
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
E136 TestMethodforAssessingCombustibilityofMaterials
Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C
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 April 15, 2019. Published May 2019. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
ε1
approved in 1963. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as C516 – 08 (2013) . Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/C0516-19. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C516−19
3. Terminology 7.2 The physical properties listed in this section of the
specification are defined as Qualification Requirements (see
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology C168 for definitions
Practice C390, section 5.1.1). The insulation shall conform to
relating to insulation.
the following requirements:
Thermal resistance, °F·h·ft /Btu See Table 3
4. Classification
(K·m /W)
4.1 Vermiculite insulation is classified by type and grade Moisture absorption, max, % by weight/ 3.5 3.5
14 days
designations, as follows:
Combustibility No flaming, glowing,
4.1.1 Type I—Product that results from the expanding or
or smoking
exfoliating of natural vermiculite ore by grading and heating to Surface-burning characteristics (Test Method E84):
Flame spread, max 0 0
meet the requirements of this specification.
Smoke developed, max 0 0
4.1.2 Type II—Expanded vermiculite that has been surface-
Water properties, min, mL of water N.A. 175
treated to produce water repellency and limit absorption of repelled
moisture from both liquid and vapor phase.
8. Sampling
4.1.3 Grade designations established by range of particle
size distribution and bulk density are shown in Table 1 and 8.1 For purposes of standard tests, sampling shall be in
Table 2. accordance with Practice C390.
9. Test Methods
5. Ordering Information
5.1 All purchase orders shall identify both type and grade of 9.1 The physical properties, as listed in Section 7, shall be
determined in accordance with the following methods:
insulationdesired.Iftypedesignationisomitted,TypeIwillbe
furnished. Purchasers referencing this specification shall in- 9.1.1 Bulk Density—Test Methods C520, Method A.
9.1.2 Grading—Test Method C136, except that when a
clude the date of issue of the standard specification being
mechanical sieving device is used, the sieving time shall be 5
referenced.
min and the test specimen shall be 0.11 lb (50 g) of material.
6. Materials and Manufacture 9.1.3 Thermal Resistance—Testsforthermalresistanceshall
be determined at design density in accordance with Test
6.1 Vermiculite is a micaceous mineral which is mined and
Methods C177 or C518. The thermal resistance of the various
processed to produce a high-purity concentrate. The
types shall not be lower than the values listed in Table 3.
concentrate, in the form of flakes of varying size and thickness
3 3 Determine the thermal resistance (R-value) at mean tempera-
with approximate weight of 55 lb/ft (880 kg/m ), is expanded
ture 75°F (24°C) and 40°F (4°C). Report the direction of heat
in high-temperature furnaces to produce densities in the range
3 3 flow. Determine the thermal resistance at other mean tempera-
from 3.0 to 8.0 lb/ft (48 to 128 kg/m ). Vermiculite is a
tures when required.
naturallyoccurringmaterialandisabletobeusedasabuilding
9.1.4 Water Vapor Sorption—The test specimen shall be
material. It shall comply with the criteria for noncombustible
approximately 0.11 lb (50 g). Fill the insulation to be tested
materials in accordance with Test Method E136.
loosely in the 9 by 9 by 5 in. (228 by 228 by 127 mm)
specimen holder and level.
7. Physical Requirements
9.1.4.1 Condition with minimum air movement across the
7.1 The physical requirements listed in this section are
test specimen surface. Condition at 50 6 2 % relative humidity
definedasInspectionRequirements(seePracticeC390,section
and 120 6 5°F (48.9 6 3°C) to constant weight and record.
5.1.2). The insulation shall conform to the following require-
Record and report the density of the conditioned specimen.
ments:
9.1.4.2 Increase the relative humidity to 90 6 2 % relative
Type I Type II
humidity and 120 6 5°F (48.9 6 3°C) for 14 days. Determine
3 3
Bulk density, lb/ft (kg/m ) See Table 1
the weight gain after 14 days of expos
...
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.
´1
Designation: C516 − 08 (Reapproved 2013) C516 − 19
Standard Specification for
Vermiculite Loose Fill Thermal Insulation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C516; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
ε NOTE—11.1, 12.1, 12.2.2, and Table 3 were editorially corrected in April 2014.
1. Scope
1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical properties of expanded or exfoliated vermiculite loose fill loose-fill
insulation. The specification also includes the testing procedures by which the acceptability of the material shall be determined.
These testing procedures deal primarily with material performance in the temperature range associated with the thermal envelope
of buildings; however, the commercially usable temperature range for this insulation is from −119 from –119 to 850°F (−84(–84
to 454°C). For specialized applications, refer to manufacturer’s instructions.Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for specialized
applications.
1.2 The specification also covers the composition and properties of vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water
repellency for installations.
1.3 When the installation or use of thermal insulation materials, accessories, and systems may pose safety or health problems,
the manufacturer shall provide the user with appropriate current information regarding any known problems associated with the
recommended use of the company’s products, and shall also recommend protective measures to be employed in their safe
utilization.
1.4 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. 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 actual fire conditions.
1.5 The following applies to Test Method E84 and Test Method E136. Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards
for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.
1.6 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.
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 9, of this specification: 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Section 12.
1.8 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:
C136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
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, 2013April 15, 2019. Published April 2014May 2019. Originally approved in 1963. Last previous edition approved in 20082013 as
ε1
C516 – 08.C516 – 08 (2013) . DOI: 10.1520/C0516-08R13E01.10.1520/C0516-19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. 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
C516 − 19
C177 Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the
Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus
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
C520 Test Methods for Density of Granular Loose Fill Insulations
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E136 Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology C168 for definitions relating to insulation.
4. Classification
4.1 Vermiculite insulation is classified by type and grade designations, as follows:
4.1.1 Type I—Product that results from the expanding or exfoliating of natural vermiculite ore by grading and heating to meet
the requirements of this specification.
4.1.2 Type II—Expanded vermiculite that has been surface-treated to produce water repellency and limit absorption of moisture
from both liquid and vapor phase.
4.1.3 Grade designations established by range of particle size distribution and bulk density are shown in Table 1 and Table 2.
5. Ordering Information
5.1 All purchase orders shall designateidentify both type and grade of insulation desired. If type designation is omitted, Type
I will be furnished. The type and grade classifications in this specification differ from the classifications in earlier issues. Purchasers
referencing this specification shall include the date of issue.issue of the standard specification being referenced.
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Vermiculite is a micaceous mineral which is mined and processed to produce a high-purity concentrate. The concentrate,
3 3
in the form of flakes of varying size and thickness weighing with approximate weight of 55 lb/ft (880 kg/m ), is expanded in
3 3
high-temperature furnaces to produce densities in the range from 3.0 to 8.0 lb/ft (48 to 128 kg/m ). As Vermiculite is a naturally
occurring mineral, it is classifiable as an elementary material and is able to be used as a building material. It is noncombustible
as determined by Test Method E136. Material shall pass combustion test criteria of shall comply with the criteria for
noncombustible materials in accordance with Test Method E136.
7. Physical Requirements
7.1 The physical requirements listed in this section are defined as Inspection Requirements (see Practice C390, section 5.1.2).
The insulation shall conform to the following requirements:
Type I Type II
3 3
Bulk density, lb/ft (kg/m ) See Table 1
Grading (particle size) See Table 2
Water properties, max g wicked in 5 min N.A. 3
determined in
accordance
with 9.1.6
7.2 The physical properties listed in this section of the specification are defined as Qualification Requirements (see Practice
C390, section 5.1.1). The insulation shall conform to the following requirements:
TABLE 1 Density Specifications
3 3
Bulk Density, lb/ft (kg ⁄m )
Grade Designation
min max
0—Premium 3.0 (48) 5.0 (80)
1—Large 3.7 (59) 5.5 (88)
2—Medium 4.0 (64) 6.0 (96)
3—Fine 4.5 (72) 7.0 (112)
4—Super Fine 5.5 (88) 8.0 (128)
C516 − 19
TABLE 2 Grading Cumulative Percent Retained
U. S. Sieve No.
Grade Designation 3
⁄8 in. (9.5
4 (4.75 mm) 8 (2.36 mm) 16 (1.18 mm) 30 (600 μm) 50 (300 μm) 100 (150 μm)
mm)
0—Premium 30–80 80–100
1—Large 0–10 90–100
2—Medium 0–10 45–90 95–100
3—Fine 0–10 90–100
4—Super Fine 0–5 60–98 90–100
TABLE 3 Nominal Thermal Resistance Values at 1 in. Thickness
A 2 2
Mean Temperature Thermal Resistance at 1 in. °F·h·ft /Btu (K·m /W)
°F (°C) 0–Premium 1–Large 2–Medium 3–Fine 4–Super Fine
–119 (–84) . . . . 3.4 (0.59)
–58 (–50) . . . . 3.0 (0.52)
–13 (–25) . . . . 2.7 (0.48)
†
40 (4) . . . . 2.5 (0.44)
75 (24) 2.3 (0.40) 2.3 (0.40) 2.3 (0.40) 2.3 (0.40) 2.3 (0.40)
212 (100) . . . . 1.8 (0.32)
302 (150) . . . . 1.6 (0.28)
392 (200) . . . . 1.4 (0.25)
482 (250) . . . . 1.2 (0.22)
572 (300) . . . . 1.1 (0.19)
662 (350) . . . . 0.94 (0.17)
752 (400) . . . . 0.84 (0.15)
850 (454) . . . . 0.73 (0.13)
A
The nominal thermal resistances in this table are for 1.0 in. (25.4 mm) of thickness.
†
Editorially corrected April 2013.
Thermal resistance, °F·h·ft /Btu See Table 3
(K·m /W)
Moisture absorption, max, % by weight/ 3.5 3.5
14 days
Combustibility No flaming, glowing,
or smoking
Surface-burning characteristics (Test Method E84):
Flame spread, max 0 0
Smoke developed, max 0 0
Water properties, min, mL of water N.A. 175
repelled
8. Sampling
8.1 For purposes of standard tests, sampling shall be in accordance with Practice C390.
9. Test Methods
9.1 The physical properties, as enumeratedlisted in Section 7, shall be determined in accordance with the following methods:
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