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Evaluation of in-service thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofing membranes

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Abstract
As part of a five year investigation, mechanical (strength and elongation) and chemical (thermogravimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis) methods of evaluation are used in this paper to characterize in-service TPO roof membranes. All the non-reinforced membranes meet the minimum thickness and tensile strength requirement as specified int he propossed ASTM standard. The polyester scrim reinforced membrnes had higher tensile strength and elongation values than those reinofrced with random mat of short glass fibers. The standard should consider defining the breaking strength in terms of "stress" instead of load and incorporating strain energy requirements at 23C. The term TPO is confusing and very vague and the standard should consider differentiating betwwn the different types of TPOs. Based on thermogravimetry, at least four different types of TPOs currently are in service. Lastly, the standard should consider using the glass transition temperature to monitor chanes in membranes due to aging/weathering.
Date
0/1999
Author(s)
T Simmons; R Paroli; K Liu; H Delgado; J Irwin
Page(s)
19-42
Keyword(s)
TPO; single ply; thermoplastic olefin; polyolefin; glass transition temperature


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