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E84 2-Ply 20oz NW
Report of Testing 20 oz. vinyl wall covering with nonwoven backing for compliance with the applicable requirements.
The ASTM E84 test, commonly called the Steiner Tunnel Test, measures how materials perform when exposed to fire conditions. Conducted in a 25-foot tunnel with controlled flame exposure, this test measures flame spread index and smoke development index using cement board and red oak lumber as reference standards. Building codes throughout North America recognize ASTM E84 as the standard for evaluating interior finish materials in commercial construction.
Two-ply construction with non-woven backing creates wallcovering that combines surface design flexibility with structural stability. The non-woven backing provides tear resistance and dimensional stability during installation, while the 20-ounce weight specification ensures commercial-grade durability. However, the multi-layer construction requires careful fire safety evaluation to ensure all components perform safely when exposed to flame.
This certification removes uncertainty from material specification decisions in commercial projects. Building inspectors and fire marshals recognize ASTM E84 test results as definitive proof of fire safety compliance, ensuring that wallcovering choices support smooth project approvals and meet the safety requirements essential for commercial building occupancy.
Test Specifications
Report of Testing “20 oz. vinyl wall covering with nonwoven backing” for compliance with the applicable requirements of the following criteria: ASTM E84-16 TEST FOR SURFACE BURNING CHARACTERISTICS OF BUILDING MATERIALS (UL 723, UBC 8-1, NFPA 255)
Specimen Description:
The specimen was prepared by Intertek technicians on March 31, 2017 at Intertek Laboratories located in Elmendorf, TX. The specimen was described by the client as "Lot 195637". The 24 ft. long test specimen consisted of three 8 ft. sections of wall covering material adhered to 1/4 in. thick cement board. The product was received by our personnel in good condition and given an identification number of SAT1703141139-003.
Mounting Method:
The specimen was self-supporting. The finished side was exposed towards the flames.
Test Results
The test results, computed on the basis of observed flame front advance and electronic smoke density measurements are presented in the following table.
| Test Specimen | Flame Spread Index | Smoke Developed Index |
|---|---|---|
| 20 oz. vinyl wall covering with nonwoven backing | 10 | 25 |
Observations
During the test, the specimen was observed to behave in the following manner.
| Time (min:sec) | Observations |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | The test burners were turned on. |
| 0:05 | The wall covering began to blister. |
| 0:12 | Steady ignition was observed. |
| 0:15 | The wall covering began to char. |
| 1:07 | Small burning chunks of wall covering began to fall. |
| 10:00 | The test burners were shut off. |
After the test, the specimen was observed to be damaged as follows:
| Distance (feet) | Damage |
|---|---|
| 0 – 7 | The wall covering was observed to be consumed. |
| 7 – 10 | The wall covering was observed to be partially melted, blistered, and heavily discolored. |
| 10 – 24 | The wall covering was observed to be heavily discolored and blistered. |
Test Results
Flame Spread Index: 10
Smoke Developed Index: 25
Specimen Data
Time to Ignition (sec): 12
Time to Max FS (sec): 77
Maximum FS (feet): 1.9
Time to 980 F (sec): Never Reached
Time to End of Tunnel (sec): Never Reached
Max Temperature (F): 569
Time to Max Temperature (sec): 233
Total Fuel Burned (cubic feet): 44.06
FS*Time Area (ft*min): 17.1
Smoke Area (%A*min): 18.7
Unrounded FSI: 88
Conclusion:
- This test sample meets the A.S.T.M. E84-16 Standard.
Test performed and certified by: