Categorization of Building Materials
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DIN4102 A1 noncombustible rockwool
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DIN4102 A2 gypsum fireproofing plaster leavened with polystyrene beads
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DIN 4102 B1 (difficult to ignite/often self-extinguishing) Silicone caulking used as a component in firestopping piping penetration
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DIN 4102 B2: Timber, normal combustibility
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DIN 4102 B3: Polyurethane foam (easy to ignite = lots of hydrocarbon bonds usually)
Materials can be tested for the degree of flammability and combustibility in accordance with the German DIN 4102. DIN 4102, as well as its British cousin BS 476 include for testing of passive fire protection systems, as well as some of its constituent materials.
The following are the categories in order of degree of combustibility as well as flammability:
| Rating | Degree of flammability | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 100% noncombustible (nichtbrennbar) | |
| A2 | ~98% noncombustible (nichtbrennbar) | |
| B1 | Difficult to ignite (schwer entflammbar) | intumescents and some high end silicones |
| B2 | Normal combustibility | wood |
| B3 | Easily ignited (leichtentflammbar) |
A more recent norm is the European EN 13501-1 - Fire classification of construction products and building elements - which roughly replaces A2 with A2/B, B1 with C, B2 with D/E and B3 with F.
B3 or F rated materials may not be used in building unless combined with another material which reduces the flammability of those materials.
Read more about this topic: Flammability
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