As sprayfoam has become a widely used and even a preferred form of insulation for residential and commercial constructions, one step that need not be forgotten is a thermal barrier. Spray Polyurethane Foams (SPF) are highly combustible. Yield One carries two different brands of thermal barriers, No-Burn and DC-315. These products will help keep your building safe and fire code compliant!
Yield One Offers Two Different Intumescent Coatings
An intumescent coating is a type of paint that swells, which in turn, forms an insulating barrier when exposed to extreme heat or fire. After heat exposure, the coating will create a carbonaceous char. This char protects the underlying surface from the fire and delays structural failure.
Starting with No-Burn Plus ThB, this is an intumescent fire protective coating for interior and unconditioned spaces. This quality product protects sprayfoam insulation, in the event of a fire by delaying the rise in temperature, which in turn delays or can even prevent the sprayfoam from igniting! No-Burn Plus ThB has been tested and certified to coat UPC foam. No-Burn Plus ThB comes in 5-gallon pails and is available in white, gray, or dark charcoal.
Just like the No-Burn Plus ThB, DC-315 is a fully tested and certified intumescent fire protective coating for Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF). This product delays the involvement of foam in the event of a fire. It works to provide a “15-minute alternative to thermal barrier” and “5-minute ignition barrier.” Additionally, DC-315 is the most tested and approved product used as an alternative thermal barrier. DC-315 comes in 5-gallon pails and is available in white, gray, and black.
Handling and Storage
Understanding the importance of safe handling and storage for thermal barriers will ensure the user is implementing the best practices for these products. Intumescent coatings require specific handling and storage procedures. Under improper conditions, the physical properties and shelf life of these products can be adversely affected. Exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures may render the products unsalvageable.
No-Burn Plus ThB Specifications:
- Non-Hazardous
- Water-Based
- pH 7-8
- Shelf Life of 12 Months
- Boiling Point – 212℉
- Freezing Point – 32℉
- Slight to no Odor
DC-315 Specifications:
- Water-Based
- pH ~7
- Shelf Life of 18-24 Months
- Boiling Point of 212℉
- Mild Emulsion Odor
Safe Handling & Storage:
- Temperature-Controlled Between 40℉ and 90℉
- Original Packaging Only, Cool Dry
- Keep Upright
- Store Out of Direct Sunlight
- Store Away from Heat, Sparks, and Freezing Temperatures
Always be sure to use the proper personal protective equipment no matter which product you use! Eye and face protection are essential for overspray and splashes. An air-purifying respirator should be used if spraying these thermal coatings. In addition, make sure skin on your hands, body, and feet are covered at all times.
Application
During the application process of No-Burn Plus ThB, the coating needs to be applied to a substrate. Before and during coating application, be sure that the substrates’ surface is dry, clean, and free from any debris, dust, dirt, grease, oil, and all other prior coating materials. Apply the coating by either spraying, or using a roller or brush. After the first coat of No-Burn Plus ThB is applied, let it dry for a minimum of 1 hour and total cure time is typically 24 hours.
As for the DC-315, proper adhesion of a coating requires the foam surface to have slight texture. Just like the No-Burn Plus ThB, DC-315 must be applied to a clean, cured, firm, dry surface that also needs to be free of dust, dirt, oil, wax, grease, mildew, and efflorescence. After application of DC-315, allow the coat to dry for a minimum of 1 hour and total cure time is 4-8 hours.
Both products need to be thoroughly mixed before application. Failure of this step can seriously compromise the coating’s ability to perform. No-Burn Plus ThB can be mixed with a 5-gallon power mixing wand between 800-1200 RPM until completely mixed. If the material is too viscous after mixing, add 8 ounces of water per 5-gallon pail and continue mixing. For DC-315, perform mechanical stirring with a medium speed drill and paddle. Stir the contents from the bottom to the top, being sure to scrape the bottom and sides. Mix for 4-5 minutes.
Conclusion
Using a thermal barrier is an important step during a sprayfoam job. Spray Polyurethane Foam is a highly combustible material and a thermal coating can be essential in keeping your building project fire code compliant. Safe handling and storage practices are vital in the proper use of these coatings. Failure to follow these practices may result in a product that is not viable. During application of these materials, be sure to follow the technical data sheets directions on proper preparation and application. Always be sure to wear the proper PPE to protect yourself from accidental exposure.
Have you used either of these products? We’d love to hear what you thought about them! Leave a comment below discussing your experience, thought, tips, or questions you have for either the No-Burn Plus ThB or the DC-315.