ASTM C 1784 : 2013

1.1This test method covers the measurement of non-steady-state heat flow into or out of a flat slab specimen to determine the stored energy (that is, enthalpy) change as a function of temperature using a heat flow meter apparatus (HFMA).

1.2In particular, this test method is intended to measure the sensible and latent heat storage capacity for products incorporating phase-change materials (PCM).

1.3To more accurately predict thermal performance, information about the PCM products’ performance under dynamic conditions is needed to supplement the properties (thermal conductivity) measured under steady-state conditions.

1.4This test method is based upon the HFMA technology used for Test Method C518 but includes modifications for specific heat and enthalpy change measurements for PCM products as outlined in this test method.

1.5Heat flow measurements are required at both the top and bottom HFMA plates for this test method. Therefore, this test method applies only to HFMAs that are equipped with at least one heat flux transducer on each of the two plates and that have the capability for computerized data acquisition and temperature control systems. Further, the amount of energy flowing through the transducers must be measureable at all points in time. Therefore, the transducer output shall never be saturated during a test.

1.6This test method makes a series of measurements to determine the enthalpy storage of a test specimen over a temperature range. First, both HFMA plates are held at the same constant temperature until steady state is achieved. Steady state is defined by the reduction in the amount of energy entering the specimen from both plates to a very small and nearly constant value. Next, both plate temperatures are changed by identical amounts and held at the new temperature until steady state is again achieved. The enthalpy absorbed or released by the specimen from the time of the temperature change until steady state is again achieved will be recorded. Using a series of temperature step changes, the cumulative enthalpy stored or released over a certain temperature range is determined.

1.7Calibration of the HFMA to determine the ‘correction factors’ for the enthalpy stored within the plate heat flux transducers and any material placed between the test specimen and the HFMA plates must be performed following Annex A1. These correction factors are functions of the beginning and ending temperatures for each step, as described in Annex A1.

1.8This test method applies to PCMs and composites, products and systems incorporating PCMs, including: dispersed in, or combined with, a thermal insulation material, boards or membranes containing concentrated or dispersed PCM, etc. Specific examples include solid PCM composites and products, loose blended materials incorporating PCMs, and discretely contained PCM.

1.9This test method may be used to characterize material properties, which may or may not be representative of actual conditions of use.

1.10The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.11This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.