ASTM E136: Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace Combustibility Test
What Is ASTM E136?
ASTM E136 is the Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C. It is used to determine whether building and construction materials meet the definition of “non-combustible” — a material that, when exposed to fire conditions, does not contribute to fire spread, flame propagation, or significant heat release. The test is a critical component of fire safety classification systems in the construction, fire safety, building materials, and HVAC industries, referenced in building codes, product approval processes, and regulatory compliance frameworks worldwide.
Why Non-Combustibility Testing Matters
Building codes and fire safety regulations — IBC (International Building Code), NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), and equivalent international standards — permit use of non-combustible construction materials in fire-rated assemblies, high-rise buildings, and occupancies requiring maximum fire resistance. Misclassification of a combustible material as non-combustible can lead to fire spread exceeding design assumptions, structural failure, and loss of life.
Test Procedure
Specimen Preparation
Specimens (5 mm × 5 mm × 50 mm for most materials, or as-manufactured thickness) are dried at 60°C to constant mass and conditioned to remove absorbed moisture. Moisture content must be <0.5% by mass to prevent steam-related artefacts in test results.
Furnace Setup and Calibration
A vertical electrical tube furnace is preheated to 750°C ± 5°C and stabilised. A thermocouple positioned at the specimen centre monitors temperature throughout the test. The furnace provides a uniformly heated environment that simulates fully developed fire conditions without direct flame exposure.
Test Execution and Measurements
The specimen is placed in the centre of the furnace tube and exposed for 30 seconds (modified test) or until it meets the acceptance criteria. The following are recorded throughout:
- Specimen surface temperature: Thermocouple readings during and after insertion
- Furnace temperature rise: Temperature increase above the initial 750°C due to specimen combustion
- Flaming duration: Seconds of sustained flaming observed after specimen insertion
- Mass loss: Percent mass loss of specimen after test
Acceptance Criteria
A material is classified as non-combustible if it meets ALL of the following:
- Temperature rise does not exceed 30°C above the initial furnace temperature
- Flaming duration does not exceed 30 seconds after insertion
- Mass loss does not exceed 50% of the original specimen mass
Related International Standards
- ISO 1182: Reaction to fire tests — Non-combustibility test (international equivalent)
- EN 13501-1: European fire classification system for construction products
- BS 476 Part 4: Non-combustibility test (British standard)
Conclusion
ASTM E136 plays a crucial role in fire safety evaluation by providing a reliable method to determine whether materials can be classified as non-combustible under controlled high-temperature conditions. By assessing parameters such as temperature rise, flaming duration, and mass loss, this test ensures that materials used in construction do not contribute to fire growth or spread. Compliance with ASTM E136 and related international standards like ISO 1182 and EN 13501-1 is essential for meeting building code requirements and ensuring occupant safety. Ultimately, ASTM E136 testing supports the selection of safe construction materials, reduces fire hazards, and enhances the overall fire resistance of buildings and infrastructure.
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At the core of this breadth is our network of 2,000+ accredited labs in the USA, offering access to over 10,000 test types. From advanced metrology (SEM, TEM, RBS, XPS) to mechanical, dielectric, environmental, and standardised ASTM/ISO testing, we give clients unmatched flexibility, specialisation, and scale. You’re not limited by geography, facility, or methodology—Infinita connects you to the right testing, every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is ASTM E136 important? It ensures that materials used in buildings meet fire safety regulations and do not increase the risk of fire propagation or structural failure.
What materials are tested using ASTM E136? Construction materials such as insulation, wall panels, ceiling materials, and HVAC components are commonly tested.
How is the test conducted? A prepared specimen is placed in a preheated furnace at 750°C, and its behaviour is observed and measured under controlled conditions.
Which standards are equivalent to ASTM E136? Equivalent standards include ISO 1182, EN 13501-1, and BS 476 Part 4.
Where is ASTM E136 used? It is widely used in construction, fire safety engineering, building code compliance, and material certification industries worldwide.
