Combustion Toxicity

Combustion Toxicity Test* (for aviation)

The Combustion Toxicity test is used by the aerospace/aviation industry to determine the concentration of specific gas components of smoke released by cabin materials during combustion.

Test Methods

  • Boeing BSS 7239
Smoke

*Tested at our partner lab

Test Summary

A test sample is placed in an enclosed chamber and exposed to either radiant heat (non-flaming mode) or radiant heat with a flame (flaming mode). The sample is exposed to heat and/or flame for 4 minutes, after which the gases are collected and analyzed for various chemical compound byproducts. The list of the combustion byproducts measured along with their maximum limits are listed below.

Combustion Byproduct Maximum Limit (ppm)
Carbon Monoxide (CO) 3,500
Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) 200
Hydrogen Chloride (HCl) 500
Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN) 150
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) 100
Nitrous Gases (NO & NO2) 100

Test Sample Requirements

Test samples must meet the following requirements:

    • The sample size is 2.9-inch x 2.9-inch.
    • A minimum of 3 samples must be provided.
    • The sample thickness must the same as the thickness of the part/construction. (Maximum Thickness = 1 inch)
    • Samples may be tested either as a section cut from a fabricated part as installed in the aircraft, or constructed to simulate that part.
    • Fabricated units, such as sandwich panels, may not be separated for testing.

Regulatory Requirements

There are no regulatory requirements for toxicity testing on aircraft. However, some airplane manufacturers require this test internally, such as Boeing (BSS 7239), Airbus (ABD0031/AITM 3.0005), and McDonnell Douglas (DMS 2294).

Products Requiring This Test

Items in transport category aircraft manufactured by Boeing or Airbus may require the Combustion Toxicity Test when they are located in a compartment occupied by the crew or passengers. While there are some exceptions, these items typically include:

Flaming Mode Only
  • Ceiling and Wall Panels
  • Partitions
  • Galley Structure
  • Large Cabinet Walls
  • Door and Frame Linings
  • Passenger Services Units
  • Class Dividers
  • Lavatories (Outer Surfaces)
  • Floor Panels (Cargo and Passenger)
  • Stowage Compartments

Both Flaming and Non-Flaming Mode
  • Curtains
  • Seat Cushion & Mattress
  • Floor Coverings
  • Air Ducting with Insulation
  • Insulation Blankets
  • Parts Constructed of Elastomeric Materials
  • Lavatories (Interior)

Additional Resources

No additional resources are available at this time.


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