In this study, heat transfer properties of 10 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ceiling
composites and 4 other non-PVC ceiling materials, such as particle board, cardboard,
plywood and asbestos were determined using an automated Lee’s disc apparatus and
XRY-1C bomb calorimeter. Results obtained indicated that asbestos were consistent in
being inert to ignition in addition to having the lowest specific heat capacity (SHC).
Polyvinyl chloride ceiling composites had advantageous thermal conductivities in
comparison to the non-PVC ceiling materials. The SHCs and thermal characteristics
of ceiling materials for building constructions and other applications should be
appraised by manufacturers where combustion requirements are of utmost
consideration
