Verification of the reaction to fire of water-based and oil-based enamel paints used as finish of walls in residential buildings

Abstract

Among that materials whose behavior facing fire has not yet been understood thoroughly lie paints used as finish of interior and exterior walls of buildings. This study aimed to analyses the reaction to fire of enamel paints exposed to elevated temperatures, so two paints were tested: One water-based and one oil-based, both applied over a white undercoat designed specifically for this purpose, simulating the real conditions of application. The paints were evaluated regarding their ignitability per ISO 11925-2:2010 and isolated combustion, by EN 13823:2010. Moreover, the enamels were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis with mass spectrometry to assess variations of mass during the temperature increase process. Lastly, a calorific value test was performed with the intent of comparing the values with those from the EN 13823:2010 test. It was noted that the paints evaluated, no matter their chemical composition, do not bolster the development of flames as they reduced smoke release by up to 6.7% and heat release by up to 60.4%, not hindering user safety in room under fire situation. Even more, the paints turned out to be protectors of the substrate.