Archive

Shore D hardness is not a performance indicator for intumescent coatings

For decades, many intumescent coating specifications have ruled out the use of materials that measure less than 70 in Shore D durometer testing. Hardness is useful to know, but it has no influence at all on an intumescent coating’s performance in the event of a fire.

A durometer measures the hardness of a test specimen on a laboratory bench.

Shore D hardness doesn’t matter for intumescent coating performance

Learn the history, use, and misuse of Shore D hardness testing for intumescent coatings and its impact on construction today.

The Red Bucket – Episode 26. The problem with using Shore D hardness for intumescent coatings (Feat. Michael Hollman)

An intumescent coating can be qualified or disqualified for use simply because it falls above or below a certain magical hardness level, usually as measured on the Shore D scale. But hardness has no influence on performance, and the Shore D scale just doesn’t make sense when assessing softer intumescent technology types. Fireproofing industry veteran Michael Hollman explains the consequences of misusing Shore D hardness in intumescent coating specifications. Also, Michael worries that his brother-in-law might soon beat him at snooker.

A wide view of a rail tank car positioned on a railroad track.

Tank car protective lining strategies for emerging biofuel transportation

An examination of protective linings that support safe and efficient transportation of emerging biofuels by railcar.

"Alpha" sculpture restoration preserves a bold artistic vision

View an inside look at Carboline's role in restoring a beloved St. Louis–area sculpture park.