This specification covers the composition and physical properties of lightweight, flexible open-cell polyimide foam insulation intended for use as thermal and sound-absorbing insulation for a certain temperature range in commercial and industrial environments. The insulations are classified into the following types: Types I, II, III, IV, V, and VI. Polyimide foam shall be manufactured from the appropriate monomers, and necessary compounding ingredients. Different test methods shall be performed in order to determine the following properties of the insulation: density, apparent thermal conductivity, upper temperature limit, high temperature stability, compressive strength, compression deflection, compression set, steam aging, corrosiveness, chemical resistance, surface burning characteristics, radiant panel surface flammability, vertical burn, heat release rate, specific optical smoke density, hydrogen halides in smoke, toxic gas generation, and sound absorption coefficients.

1.1 This specification covers the composition and physical properties of lightweight, flexible open-cell polyimide foam insulation intended for use as thermal and sound-absorbing insulation for temperatures from -328°F up to +572°F (-200°C and +300°C) in commercial and industrial environments.

1.1.1 Annex A1 includes faced polyimide foam as specified by the U.S. Navy for marine applications.

1.1.2 This standard is designed as a material specification and not a design document. Physical property requirements vary by application and temperature. No single test is adequate for estimating either the minimum or maximum use temperature of polyimide foam under all possible conditions. Consult the manufacturer for specific recommendations and physical properties for specific applications.

1.1.3 The use of an appropriate vapor retarder is required in all applications where condensation could occur and cause a decrease in thermal performance or affect other system properties.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.3 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.

Note 1—The subject matter of this material specification is not covered by any other ASTM specification. There is no known ISO standard covering the subject of this standard.