DETERMINATION OF HEAT TRANSFER PROPERTIES OF VARIOUS PVC AND NON-PVC CEILING MATERIALS AVAILABLE IN NIGERIAN MARKETS

Abstract

In this study, heat transfer properties of 10 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ceiling composites and 4 other non-PVC ceiling materials, such as particle board, cardboard, plywood and asbestos were determined using an automated Lee’s disc apparatus and XRY-1C bomb calorimeter. Results obtained indicated that asbestos were consistent in being inert to ignition in addition to having the lowest specific heat capacity (SHC). Polyvinyl chloride ceiling composites had advantageous thermal conductivities in comparison to the non-PVC ceiling materials. The SHCs and thermal characteristics of ceiling materials for building constructions and other applications should be appraised by manufacturers where combustion requirements are of utmost consideration.