Limiting Oxygen Index Testing (LOI) Service

Limiting Oxygen Index Testing (LOI) Service

Limiting Oxygen Index Testing (LOI) is a critical analytical method used to assess the flammability of materials, particularly polymers and plastics. This test determines the minimum concentration of oxygen required in a mixture with nitrogen to sustain combustion, providing a quantitative measure of a material's resistance to fire. The LOI value is expressed as a percentage, with higher values indicating greater fire resistance.

Principles of Limiting Oxygen Index Testing (LOI)

The LOI test is based on the principle that the combustion of a material is dependent on the availability of oxygen. By gradually adjusting the oxygen concentration in the test atmosphere, the minimum level required to support sustained combustion can be identified. This critical oxygen concentration is the Limiting Oxygen Index, which serves as a quantitative measure of the material's resistance to ignition and burning.

The test is typically performed by vertically mounting a sample and exposing it to a controlled mixture of oxygen and nitrogen. The oxygen concentration is gradually decreased until the point where the sample can no longer sustain combustion. This oxygen concentration is then recorded as the LOI value, which is expressed as a percentage of the total volume.

Advantages of Limiting Oxygen Index Testing (LOI)

  • Simplicity and Cost-Effectiveness: The LOI test is a relatively straightforward and economical method for evaluating the flammability of materials, making it a widely adopted quality control tool in various industries.
  • Precision and Reproducibility: The LOI test provides highly accurate and reproducible results, allowing for reliable comparisons and consistent material evaluation.
  • Comprehensive Characterization: By determining the minimum oxygen concentration required for combustion, the LOI test offers valuable insights into the fire retardancy and overall combustion performance of a material.
  • Versatility: The LOI test can be applied to a diverse range of materials, including polymers, rubbers, fibers, foams, films, and textiles, making it a versatile tool for comprehensive material analysis.

Our Services

At CD BioSciences, we provide a specialized LOI testing service customized for clients aiming to assess the flammability of their materials. Our service is meticulously crafted to deliver precise, dependable, and expedient analysis, aiding in the advancement and validation of sustainable materials.

  • Sample Preparation: Specimens are prepared according to specific dimensions and shapes relevant to the material being tested.
  • Chamber Setup: The specimen is placed in a chamber where the atmosphere can be controlled and consists of a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen.
  • Ignition and Measurement: The specimen is ignited, and the oxygen concentration is adjusted until the flame is no longer sustainable, recording the LOI value.

Sample Requirements

For accurate LOI testing, the following sample requirements and types are essential:

Block Samples

Typically, 15 parallel samples are required, with dimensions refers to the ISO standards such as 80 mm × 10 mm × 4 mm.

Textile Samples

150 x 58 mm samples are used for textiles, considering both the warp and weft directions.

Liquid and Powder Samples

These are not accepted for LOI testing due to the nature of the test method.

Our Workflow

Why Choose Us?

Our LOI testing service employs state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies to ensure precision and accuracy in the determination of the LOI value.

We understand that each project has unique requirements, and we offer customizable LOI testing services to meet specific needs, whether it's for research, development, or quality control.

If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more information.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.

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