A new parameter, the Minimum Flux for Fire Propagation, has been developed. It is defined as the lowest radiant flux at which a foam/fabric composite will lose 15-20% of its weight when exposed to piloted ignition. This parameter may be used to classify foam/fabric composites and could aid in screening upholstered furniture constructions prior to full scale testing (e.g., California TB 133).
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United States Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899.