NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS REPORT

5787

PROJECTS RELATED TO BUILDING RESEARCH

AT THE

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

FOR FISCAL YEAR 1958

Compiled by the

Building Technology Division

D. E. Parsons, Chlei

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

-

Approved for public release by the

Director of the National Institute of

“ " *

Standards and Technology (NIST) Jf* on October 9, 20 1 5. _

£ ai 0 3 B ii* i •. i* .Ti- 3.
THE NATIONAL BLHEAIJ OF STANDARDS

Functions an<l Activities

The functions of the National Bureau of Standards are set forth in the Act of Congress, March

3. 1901, as amended b\ Congress in Public F<aw 619, 1950. These include the development and

maintenance of the national standards of measurement and the provision of means and methods

for making measurements consistent with these standards; the determination of physical constants and properties of materials; the development of methods and instruments for testing materials,

devices, and structures; advisory services to Government Agencies on scientific and technical

problems; invention and development of devices to serve special needs of the Government; and the

<lcvelopmenl of standard practices, codes, and specifications. The work includes basic and applied

research, development, engineering, instrumentation, testing, evaluation, calibration services, and

various consultation and information services. A major portion of the Bureau’s work is performed

for other Government Agencies, particular!) the Department of Defense and the Atomic Energy

Commission. The scope of activities is suggested by the listing of divisions and sections on the

inside of the back cover.

Reports and Publications

The results of the Bureau’s work take the form of either actual equipment and devices or published pa|>er8 and reports. Reports are issue«l to the sponsoring agency of a particular proje< t or program. Published paf»ers appear either in the Bureau’s own series of publications or in the

Journals of professional and scientific societies. The Bureau itself publishes three monthly periodicals, available from the Government Printing Office; The Journal of Research, which presents

complete papers reporting techni«‘al investigations; the Technical News Bulletin, which presents

summary and preliminary reports on work in progress; and Basic Radio Propagation Predictions,

which provides data for determining the best frequencies to use for radio communications throughout

the world. There are also five series of non|ieriodical publications: The Applied Mathematics

Series, Circulars, Handbooks, Building Materials and Structures Reports, and Miscellaneous

Publications.

Information on the Bureau's publications can be found in NBS Circular 460, Publications of

the National Bureau of Standards (.'SI. 25) and its Supplement (#0.75), available from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington 25, D. C.

Inquiries regarding the. Bureau’s rejiorts should be addressed to the Office of Technical Information, National Bureau of Standards, Washington 25, D. C.
NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS REPORT

NBS PROJECT NB6 REPORT

1000-40-1099 February 28, 1958 578?

PROJECTS RELATED TO BUILDING RESEARCH

AT THE

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

FOR FISCAL YEAR 1958

696 (:> JA /Tmv" /60~7

oSot -'n JOO<h

Compiled by the

Building Technology Division

D. E. Parsons, Chief

3MP08TAMT MOTICS

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!n}endd({ fof uss within the i to additional! 9>>aiuatton and r mating ofthla Re^orti eithas* i tha Officn of the Otractorg Mi

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Approved for public release by the

Director of the National Institute of

Standards and Technology (NIST)

on October 9, 201 5.

prograai accoontlng documaate

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> reproduction! or opan-lltarature

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U. $. OEPARTMEHT OF COMMERCE

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

INTRODUCTION

This report lists unclassified projects concerned

with building research and related subjects in progress at

the National Bureau of Standards in Fiscal Year 1958.

Most projects mentioned are directly related to

engineering and research in the building field. However,

other NBS projects not directly related, such as those on

instrumentation and properties of gases, are included in

the belief that the basic information is sometimes applicable to building research.

The projects are listed under the several main categories as given in the index immediately following. Each

project is identified by ten digits. The first four, followed by a dash. Indicate the division and section at NBS

which is carrying out the work. The next two indicate the

scientific activity class, as follows,

11 Basic Research

12 Applied Research

20 Development

30 Testing, Calibration, and Specifications

4o General Scientific Services

The last four digits identify the projects within the basic

organizational unit. Thus, project 1003”20-4832 refers to

a Division 10, Section 3^ development project No. 4832.

Under each main category the projects are arranged in the

order of their scientific activity classification, denoted

by the second group of digits. The first and last group

simply identifies the projects within the NBS organization.

I

INDEX

Number Title Page

ACOUSTICS

O6OI-I2-O632 Architectural Acoustics 1

06OI-3O-O605 Acoustic Measurements 2

O6OI-3O-3618 Acoustic Measurements 3

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION

1003-12-1014 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 5

Processes

1003-12-1016 Air Cleanliness in Buildings 6

1003-12-4881 Underground Pipe Insulation 8

1003-12-4884 Standards for Mechanically-Refrigerated 9

Enclosures

1006-12-4831 Air Conditioning of Underground 10

Installations

1003-20-4832 Refrigeration and Field Equipment 12

1003-20-4838 Air Filters for Army Aircraft (See 9I

Miscellaneous

1003-20-4885 Life of Upper Air Tubes l4

1003-20-4891 Standardization of Refrigeration 15

Unit Components

O603-3O-O613 Testing Wind Equipment (See Testing 75

Materials and Products)

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY

O9OO-II-O914 The Chemistry of Portland Cement I6

0906-II-O923 Chemical Properties of Cementing Ma° 55

terials (See Properties of Materials)

1001-11-1002 Dimensional Stability of Reinforced I8

Concrete

1001-11-4812 Stresses in Masonry I8

O906-I2-O9IO Physical Properties of Concreting 60

Materials (See Properties of Materials)

1001-12-1000 Masonry and Reinforced Concrete 19

1001-12-4811 Precast Concrete Structures 21

1001-12-4814 Design Stresses in Reinforcement 22

1001-12-4815 Insulating Concretes 23

0903-20-4428 Properties of Concrete at Elevated 24

Temperatures

0906-20-4473 Chemical and Physical Properties of 6l

Dolomltic Limes (See Properties of

Materials
II

Number Title

0906-30-4415

0906-30-4433

0906-30-4444

Cement Reference Laboratory (See

Testing Materials and Products)

Acceptance Testing Cement (See

Testing Materials and Products)

Miscellaneous Testing (See Testing

Materials and Products)

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS

0501-30-0501

0700-30-0719

0201-30-0208

0400-40-0497

1005-40-1022

Preparation of Specifications and

Standards for Paints, Varnishes,

Lacquers, and Component Materials

Preparation of Specifications for

Organic and Fibrous Materials

Specifications for Lamps and Color

(See Miscellaneous)

Recommendations for Radiation Protection (See Miscellaneous)

Construction Codes and Safety

Standards

FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGNI SHMENT

0706-11-3872

1002-11-4873

1002 -12 - 1029 ..,. 1002-12-4872

1005-12-1005

1002-20-4875

1002-30-4829

1002-30-4874

1002-30-4876

Thermal Decomposition of Cellulose

Mechanism of Fire Extinguishment

Fire Hazard Studies

Fire Resistance of Reinforced Concrete

Lightning Hazards of Ungrounded

Metallic Roofing, Siding, and

Thermal Insulation

Fireproofing Structural Steel

Marine Material 195 ^

n n

M n 19^3

HEAT TRANSFER

IOO6-II-IOI5 Heat Transfer Measurements

IOO6-II-4886 Effect of Nickel on the Thermal Conductivity of Steels

Moisture in Roof Insulation

Page

78

78

80

26

27

93

97

27

31

31

33

34

35

37

38

39

39

41

42

1006-12^4887 43
Ill

Number Title Page

PLUMBING AND FLUID MECHANICS

0603-11-0618 Fluid Mechanics Research li 5

0603-12 - 3^86 Hydraulics of Short Pipes [4.6 IOO5-I2-IOOI4. Capacities of Horizontal Dpains in Lj.7

Plumbing Systems

0603

-

40“0823 Hydraulic Bulletin 49

PROPERTIES 0F MATERIALS

0604-

II—0636 Dynamic Properties of Materials 30

O702-II-O73I Research on Properties of Textiles 5l

O7O7-II-O733 Research on Properties of plastics 52

O9OI-II-O942 Engineering Properties of Ceramics 52

O9OI-II-440O Properties of Ceramics at Elevated

Temperatures 54

0906-

II-O923 Chemical Properties of Cementing 55

Materials

0907-

II-O917 Properties of Crystalline Solids 57

0707-12-3893 Design criteria for Glass Fiber

Reinforced Plastics 58

O903-I2-O903 Physical Properties of Refractory 59

Materials

O906-I2-O9IO Physical Properties of Concreting 60

Materials

0906-20-4473 Chemical and Physical Properties 6l

of Dolomltlc Limes

IOOO-3O-48OI Properties of Building Materials 62

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS

IOO4-II-IOI7 Properties of Roofing, Waterproofing,

Flooring, and Coating Materials 63

0201-20-0203 Spectrophotometry and Its Application 64

to Colorimetry and photometry

050I-2O-O567 Development of Methods of Testing and 7I

Analysis of Organic Coatings (See

Testing Materials and Products)

IOO4-2O-4846 Research on Flooring 66

O2OI-3O-2322 Standards of Light and Color 68

050I-30-3240 Analysis and Testing of Paint, Varnish, 75

Lacquer and Related Materials

(See Testing Materials and Products)

0707-30-3880 Standards for plastics Wall Coverings 68

IOO4-4O-4847 Standards for Built-Up Roofs 69
IV

Number

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS

0501-20-0567

0707-20-0732

1003-20-4836

0201-30-2320

0501-30-3240

0603-

30-0613

0604-

30-3621

0707-30-3879 0900-

30-44ii7

0906-30-4415

0906-30-4433

0 906-3 o-4li44

1000-

30-4800

MISCELLANEOUS

0804-11-0815

0804-11-0836

0901-

11-4468)

0901-11-0947)

1001-

12-4817

0410-20-3135

0604-2Q-06i4

0604-20-3601

1000-20-4805

1003-20-4838

0103-30-2031

0201-30-0207

0201-30-0208

0204=30-0218

Development of Methods of Testing and

Analysis of Organic Coatings

Methods of Testing Plastics and

Adhesives

Standard Test Procedure for Soiling

Acoustic Tile

Qualification, Inspection, and Testing

of Lamps for the Government

Analysis and Testing of Paint, Varnish,

Lacquer and Related Materials

Testing Wind Equipment

Miscellaneous Mechanical Testing and

Calibration

Standardization of Test Methods and

Specifications for Adhesives,

Elastomers, Sealants, and Molded

Articles

Acceptance Testing of Ceramic

Materials

Cement Reference Laboratory

Acceptance Testing, Cement

Miscellaneous Testing

Miscellaneous Testing

Crystal Structure and Corrosion

Fundamental Corrosion Reactions at

Metal Surfaces

The Mechanism of Plasticity

Masonry Joint Sealers

Radiation Shielding Problems

Developments of Techniques for Static

and Dynamic Load Measurements

Investigation of a Prestressed

Cellular Drydock

Design and Construction of Experimental

Air Zero Locators

Air Filter Systems for Army Aircraft

Lightning Protection

Standards of Light and Color

Specifications for Lamps and Colors

Calibration of Length and Angle

Page

71

72

73

74

75

75

76

77

78

78

79

80

80

83

83

84

86

87

87

89

90

91

92

93

93

94
V

Number Title Page

0204-30-2312

0604-30-0616

1003-30-4889

o4oo-4o-0497

0400-40-3001

1000-40-1099

1000-40-4802

Calibration of Surveying Equipment

Calibration of Mechanical Testing

Machines and Apparatus

Factors Affecting Efficacy of Cleanable Air Filters

Recommendations for Radiation Protection

Radiological Physics for Civil Defense

Consultative and Advisory Services

Federal Construction Council

95

95

96

97

98

99

102
KEY TO ABBREVIATIONS

APPEARING IN THIS REPORT

AF Air Force

AISI American Iron and Steel Institute

ASHAE American Society of Heating and

Air-Conditioning Engineers

ASRE American Society of Refrigerating

Engineers

ASTM American Society for Testing Materials

ASA .... American Standards Association

AEG Atomic Energy Commission

AFSWP . . Armed Forces Special Weapons Project

BYD . . . Bureau of Yards and Docks

CAA ... Civil Aeronautics Administration

CRL Cement Reference Laboratory

FCDA Federal Civil Defense Administration

FHA Federal Housing Administration

GSA General Services Administration

HRB Highway Research Board

lES Illuminating Engineering Society

ISO International Standardization Organization

NACA National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics

NBS National Bureau of Standards

NEMA National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NRDL Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory

OCE Office of the Chief of Engineers,

Department of the Army

OCT Office of the Chief of Transportation

OQMG Office of the Quartermaster General

PEI Porcelain Enamel Institute

QMR&E Quartermaster Research and Engineering Command

QRDC Quartermaster Research and Development Command

SEAC Standards Electronic Automatic Computer

VA Veterans Administration
1

ACOUSTICS

O6OI-I2-O632 Architectural Acoustics

Objectives

(l) To Investigate the basic physical phenomena Involved In the transmission and absorption of sound

In acoustic materials, building materials and building

structures; (2) to develop new measuring techniques In

architectural acoustics, and Improve existing techniques;

(3) to assist In developing appropriate standards In this

field.

Importance of the Project: As the noise levels produced by

society Increase, more attention has to be paid to reducing noise levels Inside buildings. Acoustic materials are

widely used for reducing noise and for Improving the

acoustics of buildings, and new techniques are being developed for Improving the sound Insulation of walls, floors,

and doors. Many of the phenomena of sound propagation In

materials and structures are Imperfectly understood, and

need theoretical and experimental elucidation before advances can be expected. Measuring techniques In this

field are generally antiquated and poor, and require much

Improvement. For example, reverberation room measurements

of the sound absorption of acoustic materials made In

different laboratories often produced different results

for the same material. The same Is true of sound Insulation measurements of wall constructions. There Is urgent

need for Improving these measuring techniques. Another

Item of Importance Is the development of sound Insulation

standards for building codes. The United States Is lacking such standards, although several European countries

and Canada have them; this project would be the logical

place to develop them.

Activity Summary: l)A new method of averaging the sound transmission loss figures at different frequencies for a partition, which Is considered more Informative than the decibel

average generally used, was developed. A paper on this

subject was presented at the 2nd International Acoustics

Congress entitled "On Standard Methods on Measurement In

Architectural Acoustics."

2) Theoretical work on the diffraction effect of a square

patch of material In a reverberant sound field has yielded

useful results which are In satisfactory agreement with

experimental results obtained some years ago. This work

Is being written up as a technical paper.
2

ACOUSTICS (con.)

0601-12-0632 (con.)

3) An exponential horn-coupler was built to enable 1-foot

square acoustic tiles to be measured for sound absorption

on an impedance tube. Its performance was worse than reports in the literature indicated it should be, and measurements of relative phase and pressure level over the

exit plane of the horn are being made to see whether

plane wave conditions exist, as they should.

4) Some countour maps of Interference patterns in reverberant sound fields have been prepared with the aid of

SEAC . These maps show how closely measurements can be

made to the walls of a reverberation chamber without departing from the diffuse field conditions required in

reverberation chamber work.

5) Further work has been done on the effect of reflected

Impedance on the output of acoustic sources, and a manuscript on this topic is under review. A method of computing the power radiated in the near field of a simple

source has been used which enables results to be obtained

in closed form for certain boundary conditions.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968: In line with a recommendation by

an advisory committee appointed by the Director in 1955^

work on the development of a standard method for measurement of sound absorption coefficients of acoustic materials

will be accelerated to the fullest extent available funds

will permit. The work will involve a critical re-examination of the area effect, placement of material, and sound

pattern in the reverberation chamber.

O60I-3O-O605 Acoustic Measurements

Objectives

1) To measure the sound absorption of acoustic

materials; 2) to measure the sound insulation properties

of wall and floor constructions; 3) to perform standard

calibrations of microphones, sound level meters, earphones,

and audiometers.
" 3

-

ACOUSTICS (con.)

O6OI-3O-O605 (con.)

Importance of the Project: Large quantities of acoustic

materials are used annually by the Government. The

performance of the material used is measured under this

project, to check its compliance with Federal Specifications SSA-II8-B, and SSA-111. Measurements of the sound

absorption of acoustic materials, and of the sound insulation of building constructions are also made for industry and private individuals. The reason is that measuring methods in this field are not yet fully standardized,

and systematic differences between results obtained in

various laboratories have not yet been resolved. (Work

is in progress under Project 06OI-I2-0632 above to

standardize on good measuring techniques in this field.)

The performance of standard calibrations of microphones

and other electroacoustic devices has been requested by

various laboratories, including industrial and university

laboratories

Activity Summary: This has been a continuing project that

was started about 30 years ago. Shortly after the beginning of the fiscal year the project was superseded

by 060I-3O-3618, and work done on Acoustic Measurements

during Fiscal Year 1957 is reported under the latter

project

060I-3O-3818 Acoustic Measurements

Objectives

For government and for non-governmental organizations, 1) to measure sound absorption of acoustic

materials; . 2) to measure sound transmission loss of

building and other structures; 3) to calibrate microphones, sound level meters, vibration pickups, audiometers and earphones used for secondary acoustic standards

4) to test devices such as dictating machines, phonographs, and loudspeakers for acoustic performance; 5) to

measure noise output of air conditioning equipment, fans,

aircraft, sirens, and similar devices.

Importance of the Project: Large quantities of acoustic

materials are used annually by the Government to control

noise in buildings. The performance of various acoustic

materials is checked under this project for compliance

with Federal Specifications for such materials. The

Government also relies on the Bureau's test results of

sound transmission loss measurements on various building
ACOUSTICS (con.)

0601-30-3618 (con.)

constructions such as walls, floors, roof decks and doors.

Sound absorption and transmission tests are made also for

Industry and private individuals for the reason that test

methods for these properties are not standardized at present . Acoustic equipment manufacturers, government and university laboratories, and the radio and sound recording industries depend on calibrations of secondary standard microphones for maintaining the acoustic quality of products

or services provided by them. The medical equipment manufacturers and otologists require calibrations of audiometers

and earphones used for diagnosis of hearing loss. Secondary

vibration pickup standards are needed by engineers working

in the field of noise reduction.

The Government is a large user of devices like fans, phonographs, and dictating machines. Tests are often required

to determine the degree of compliance of the equipment with

Federal Specifications for noise output.

Activity Summary; This is a continuing project that was

started about 30 years ago. During Fiscal 1957 the following tests were reported; I8 reverberation chamber tests, 25

sound transmission loss tests, and 7 microphone calibrations.

Technical advice was furnished to a company building underwater ultrasonic veloclmeters for the Navy Department.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: To continue the program along the

same lines as above.
" 5

”

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION

1003-12-1014 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Processes

Objectives

The purpose of this project is to develop new

technical data for use in handbooks, codes, and standards

on the principles and processes of air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration for buildings, warehouses, trailers

and other enclosed spaces and to publish the results of

technical Investigations in these fields^

Importance of the Project; There is a need in both Government and Industry for more technical Information on the

processes of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration

to permit codes to be prepared on a performance basis, to

provide test methods that are sufficiently precise and

designed to reveal Important qualities and characteristics,

and to provide an equitable basis for rating, specifying,

and purchasing such systems. Further information is needed

on the measurement and control of air infiltration in

buildings, refrigerated enclosures, warehouses, etc.

Activity Summary: A metering heat sink apparatus to determine the total heat transfer of a refrigerated enclosure,

under temperature conditions normal to Intended use, was

developed in prototype form, A particular adaptation of

this metering heat sink apparatus was modified and used

under another project for the Quartermaster Research and

Engineering Command in evaluating the performance of refrigerated trailers. The metering heat sink method takes

into account not only the sensible heat transfer of the

refrigerated enclosure under observation but the effect of

moisture vapor and air infiltration as well. This method

has tentatively been selected as a basis of rating commercial refrigerated trailers,

A careful calibration of the portable infiltration meter

designed in this section was made and referenced in a paper

entitled, "Design and Performance of a Portable Infiltration

Meter, " which was presented at the meeting of the American

Society of Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers at Murray

Bay, Canada, on June 25 ^ 1957-

A draft of an industry standard on ratings and methods of

testing for rating residential air conditioning systems was

prepared by a joint committee with members from the National

Farm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Association, the Air

Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute and the National

Bureau of Standards (Note: Mr, R, S, Dill, Chief of Section

10. 3^ served as Chairman of this Committee until his sudden

death in January, 1957)-
AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con,)

I003-I2-I0I4 (con.)

In cooperation with a project for the Corps of Engineers,

a study was made of heat transfer measurements of a model

of and an actual installation of a Nike launcher chamber

to determine if actual heat transfer of such a structure

could be predicted by performance of a model. No satisfactory relationship was established and the study was

terminated.

A preliminary study of the resultant surface temperatures

of eight Insulated panels was made under conditions of

varying summer insulation. This was of particular interest in regard to selection of surface treatment or skin

materials for refrigerated vehicles. The study was not

completed by the close of summer and was deferred until

next summer. An observation of Interest was that the

olive drab finish on military vehicles had a lower surface

temperature than some aluminum surfaces.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938: For Fiscal Year 1958 the

effort will be confined primarily to three principal tasks:

a) to study moisture and heat transfer and air leakage in

refrigerated trailers using the metering heat-sink method;

b) to prepare papers for publication on a celling panel

heating system, on radiant heating and cooling of a house

with reflective coverings on walls and celling, and on

studies of air infiltration in the Test Bungalow; and c)

to further develop the portable infiltration meter for use

in studying hospital ventilation.

1003-12-1016 Air Cleanliness in Buildings

Objectives

:

To study two test methods for evaluating the

effectiveness of air filters for heating and air conditioning purposes using a series of test dusts with narrow size

ranges, to correlate the different efficiency values obtained by the two methods. To study the principles of dust

deposition on horizontal and vertical surfaces, with a view

toward finding methods of inhibiting the soiling and discoloration of Interior surfaces of buildings.
^ ^

.

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

1003-12-1016 (con.)

Importance of the Project: Huge sums of money are spent each

year for cleanings, reconditioning, and replacing interior

surfacing materials in public buildings as a result of

contaminants in the air in the buildings, part of which are

brought in through the ventilation or air conditioning ducts.

Several limited studies made under the sponsorship of the

Public Buildings Service on acoustical tile have shown that

the mechanisms of filtration. Impingement, and thermal precipitation all cause the deposition of dust or dirt in varying degrees in building materials. However, little study

has been given to basic mechanisms by which particles of

dust become attached to surfaces, and little is known about

the methods for preventing or inhibiting such deposition.

Likewise, the control of dust brought in through ventilating

and air conditioning ducts is variable, to say the least,

because of disagreements on methods and requirements for air

filters and the lack of a standard test dust for evaluating

their effectiveness. Potentially great savings could be

realized if better standards were available for air filters

and if the principles of dust deposition in enclosed spaces

were better understood.

Activity Summary: New Project,

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968: Two transferred fund projects related to air contaminants; namely. Aircraft Engine Air

Filters, and Soiling of Acoustic Tile, both due to be completed during Fiscal Year 1958, will be converted into an

expenses fund project during the year under the title "A^r

Cleanliness in Buildings." In recent years the air filter

program has been a testing program on a reimbursable basis,

but research work is needed on the dust-spot and other test

methods because the industry has been in strong disagreement

on test methods. Studies would be undertaken to compare the

usefulness of the weight methods and dust-spot method for

evaluating the effectiveness of air filters for heating and

air conditioning purposes using a series of test dusts with

narrow size ranges with a view toward correlating the different efficiency values obtained by the two methods with the

test dusts now in use. Studies would also be undertaken of

the principles of dust deposition on horizontal and vertical

surfaces as affected by temperature difference, velocity of

approach, pressure difference, difference in electrostatic

potential, surface characteristics, and dust characteristics

with a view toward finding methods of inhibiting the soiling

and discoloration of the interior surfaces of buildings.
- 8 -

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

I003-I2-488I Underground Pipe Insulation

Objectives : To provide data on the Insulating properties,

water permeance, expansion characteristics, mechanical

and chemical stability of Insulating materials and

methods for underground steam and hot water lines as a

basis for the preparation of adequate specifications,

and test methods, for such materials by Federal Agencies.

Importance of the Project; Central heating plants often require extensive underground piping systems for distribution of steam or high temperature hot water to the area

of usage. Many types of Insulation and embedment have

been used In addition to various kinds of tunnels. Some

of the characteristics desired for underground pipe

Insulation are low thermal conductivity, low moisture

permeance, high crushing strength, suitable expansion

characteristics, adequate long life and stability at temperatures ranging from below freezing to 350°F, The Department of Defense and other Federal Agencies spend

millions of dollars each year for Installation of this

type and the Corps of Engineers of the Department of the

Army requests Information on the performance of such

Insulating materials In order to prepare adequate specifications for purchase. Their experience has Indicated

that not all materials offered as underground pipe Insulation possess the Important characteristics to the

required degree.

Activity Summary; This Is a continuing project which was

Initiated In the third quarter of Fiscal Year 1954. The

testing apparatus was brought to its present state of development in 1955 j and some trial tests made as a guide

to further operations. During Fiscal Year 1957^ the

thermal conductivity, heat transmission, and moisture resistance of cellular concrete used as an insulating material was Investigated. A report on the studies made

during the previous fiscal year on a vermiculite aggregate

concrete as pipe Insulation was nearly completed during

this fiscal year. Conferences were held on the performance of Hylag and Wlcor pipe Insulations, with representatives of the Office of the Chief of Engineers, the manufacturer, and the KBS participating. An Inter-agency

conference to prepare recommendations for the Secretary

of Defense on the use of certain underground pipe Insulations was attended. An investigation of the Insulating

and thermal characteristics of the dirt used as a cover

for pipe insulation systems was started. Parts of the

test apparatus were revised for improvements gained from

experience of previous tests.
. 9 » AIR COMDITIONINCt, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con,)

1003-12-4881 (con,)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1988° This study will be continued

with tests of steam pipe embedded In dry earths of

various kinds and prefabricated units with pressuretested steel sheath, A test apparatus for determination

of the thermal characteristics of underground pipe Insulation under simulated use conditions using electric

heat In place of steam or hot water will be developed.

1003-12-4884

Objectives : To complete the development of a metering heat

sink method for rating the heat transfer of a mechanicallyrefrigerated enclosure under normal conditions of heat^,

moisture^ and air transfer and to adapt It to the particular problems of refrigerated truck-trailers as used both

by Government and Industry, Basic Information on air

leakage and moisture transfer processes In refrigerated

enclosures will be developed. The metering heat sink

method will be described and reported In a way that will

permit adoption by the Truck-Trailer Manufacturers Association as a standard for rating commercial semitrailers.

Importance of the Project: Many types of refrigerated enclosures can be designed more effectively If accurate

heat transfer can be determined. This project deals

primarily with one type of refrigerated enclosure the

refrigerated semitrailer for hauling frozen food. The

transportation of perishable foods In refrigerated motor

trucks and trailers has Increased tremendously In recent

years such that the manufacture of refrigerated trailers

and the refrigerating units to cool them has reached the

proportions of one hundred million dollars per year. At

present there exists no standard for rating truck and

trailer bodies for heat galn^, moisture galn^ and air leakage nor any standard methods for rating the several types

of refrigerating systems | yet the truck operator Is expected to deliver frozen food In good condition with

trailers bought from one Industry and refrigerating units

bought from another Industry neither of which has a good

yardstick for describing the performance of his component.

Activity Summary; This Is a new project to be started In

Fiscal 1958,
10

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATINQ, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

1003-12-4884 (con.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938: Three or more commercial 35-foot

refrigerated semitrailers will be rated for overall heat

transfer under varying conditions of temperature, humidity,

sun load and wind, using a metering heat sink apparatus to

be constructed as a part of this study. These same vehicles

will then be operated over the road under various operating

conditions to determine the relationship between the ratings

obtained in the laboratory and over the road. These comparative results will be used to modify the laboratory method

to bring the results into closer agreement. The laboratory

method so selected will be outlined for industry consideration as a standard and the prototype metering heat sink

apparatus, including Instrumentation, will be blueprinted

for use by industry in setting up the necessary test facilities.

1006-12-4831 Air Conditioning of Underground Installations

Objectives

;

To develop information concerning the potential

heat sink capacity of rock surrounding an ice-and-waterfllled underground reservoir, and the time required for such

a reservoir to attain, or following its emergency use to

regain its potential heat sink capacity; to investigate

means of filling reservoirs with ice and controls necessary

to keep them full; to prepare additions and revisions to

the Corps of Engineers Manual on Heating and Air Conditioning of Underground Installations.

Importance of the Project: Underground installations for

special purposes must in some Instances be kept in operation for adequate periods even if cut off from outside

services such as electric power and water. For an internal

power generating plant to operate during such periods, an

adequate heat sink must be provided to absorb the waste

heat produced. Large reservoirs of water within the installation have been investigated as heat sinks, but must be

undesirably large for extended periods of use. An icefilled reservoir has much greater capacity as a heat sink,

both because of the latent heat of fusion of ice, and because at the onset of need, the reservoir and surrounding

rock are at a reduced temperature. Heat absorption by the

rock when the reservoir is used as a heat sink represents a

substantial part of the heat sink capacity, depending on

the initial rock temperature and the rate of heat delivery

to the reservoir.
„ 11 „

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

I006-I2-483I (con,)

A question important for a new installation, and doubly

Important for an Installation recovering from an emergency period in preparation for a second emergency, is

that of estimating how long a reservoir must contain ice

before its full potential as a heat sink is obtained or

restored. Information on this point is fundamental for

design estimates of the operative life of such installations under emergency conditions.

Activity Summary; This is a continuing project. During

Fiscal Year 1957^ ice formation on a refrigerant-containing pipe in water was investigated mathematically and

experimentally, as a function of pipe temperature, heat

input to the water and time. Experimental work on the air

conditioning effect of long tunnels in rock was concluded,

and the results were compared with a mathematical treatment of the subject, A report to the sponsor has been

drafted. Also, consultative services were furnished to

the sponsor and others in connection with practical phases

of underground installations.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1998’ A determination will be made, by

mathematical methods, of the time for an ice-filled rocksurrounded reservoir to attain or regain, its potential

capacity as an emergency heat sink. An experimental

investigation of the factors involved in filling a reservoir with ice, using ice in small pieces from an 'icemaking machine, and distributing it under a rough watertouched ceiling, will be made. Including development of a method of automatic control to keep the reservoir icefilled.

The Corps of Engineers Manual on Heating and Air Conditioning of Underground Installations (Part XXV), Issued in

1956, contained much of the information developed in past

years on this project. Information more recently developed,

on the thermal design of refrigerated reservoirs, and on

the use of long tunnels in rock as preconditioners for

ventilating air, will be added to the Manual, and some revisions made to it, to increase its scope and usefulness.
12

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

1003-20-4832 Refrigeration and Field Equipment

Objectives

:

To continue development of portable and mobile

refrigeration and field equipment with Improved characterIstlcs, Including performance, size and weight; to develop

and apply standard test methods to refrigerated field

equipment. Including both refrigerating machines and refrigerated structures, with a view to adapting commercial

products to military use, as far as possible; to recommend

modifications of prototype equipment and standardize capacities, rating conditions and physical components of such

equipment; to develop and apply test methods for refrigerated structures with particular reference to the occurrence

and effects of condensation of water within the component

parts; develop and amend specifications for military refrigerating equipment.

Importance of the Project; The availability and proper performance of portable and mobile refrigerating equipment Is

of primary Importance to the Military Service, and this

fact Is reflected by the actions of the Office of The

Quartermaster General In desiring our cooperation In the

development of equipment for this purpose and means for

verifying Its suitability. The evolution of refrigerating equipment since World War II, when available equipment

changed greatly, has continued and many new applications

are now being made within qulpment of a greater variety of

size and characteristics now In use. Standardization Is

essential for minimizing the stock of necessary spare parts,

especially since military operations are worldwide. The

revision of specifications Is essential to enable the

military agencies to procure commercial Items, where applicable, and thus take full advantage of quantity production.

In the Interest of reducing costs.

Activity Summary; This Is a continuing project. Initiated In

1944 . During Fiscal 1957^ a new metering heat sink method

of measuring the heat transmission of a refrigerated enclosure with the enclosure under normal temperatures was

developed and a prototype apparatus constructed. Measurement of the heat transmission of a refrigerated enclosure

by this method takes Into account the normal effects of

water vapor and air Infiltration where the heat loss method

normally used does not. Using this method the heat transmission of a refrigerated trailer was measured as up to

1000 lb of Ice accumulated In the Insulated space. Three

prototype gasoline engine-driven refrigerating units for

refrigerated trailers or warehouses were tested for performance. Three refrigerated trailers were studied for
13 ~

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con,)

1003-20-4832 (con,)

solar heating effects. Recommendations on industry comments on Federal Specification AA-R-211d were submitted

and several conferences were held with QMR&E representatives in connection with this specification. Work was

begun on the performance tests of four domestic refrigerators. Work on the exhaust gas-to-refrigerant heat exchanger on the thermo-mechanical control system, and on

the simultaneous heat and moisture vapor tests of warehouse panels was suspended during Fiscal 1957 • Progress

reports were submitted during the year in letter form and

in NBS Report No, 5283»

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958, Heat transfer performance characteristics of a 600 cubic foot plastic-panel demountable

refrigerated enclosure will be studied, Air infiltration

of and air distribution in a refrigerated trailer will be

investigated. Final performance tests at minus 4o‘^F of

the prototype exhaust gas-to-refrigerant heat exchanger

will be completed. Reports of the long series of refrigerated trailer heat transfer measurements will be completed.

Power requirement and refrigerating capacity of standard

military compressors will be made to verify results to be

obtained from a private testing laboratory. Observations

of the performance of prototype refrigerated trailers,

portable refrigerated warehouses and refrigerating units

of both stationary and portable application will continue.

1003-20-4838 Air Filter

(SEE MISCELLANEOUS)
„ 14 -

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

1003-20-4885 Life of Upper Air Tubes

Objectives

:

The stock Upper Air Tube of the M41 Tent Stove

has been found to have a service life not commensurate

with that of the stove burner. The objectives of this

project are l) to determine by laboratory tests In the

stove, the service life of twelve sets of upper air tubes

now available from OQMG using three firing schedules;

2) with the guidance obtained from these results and

metallurgical Information, to determine by tests, material

or materials to recommend for the upper air tube that will

yield a satisfactory service life. The following factors

will be considered In the recommended materials; a) produci,blllty by large or small foundries; b) probable availability of the materials under the restrictions of wartime; c) machlnablllty of the parts; and d) cost.

Importance of the Project: The gasoline-burning M41 Tent

Stove Is used for space heating In temporary and semipermanent housing over a wide geographical distribution.

Failure of the Upper Air Tube Incapacitates the stove and

In falling. It may cause destruction of the pot burner,

thus multiplying the problems In the field of Immediate

replacement. Development of an Upper Air Tube of life

commensurate with that of the stove and of specifications

for the material, taking Into account the factors mentioned above. Is Important from the standpoint of military reliability, economy and of facility In procurement.

Activity Summary: This project was approved during the last

quarter of 1958 but only preliminary planning was accomplished. During 1957 a temporary test structure adequate

to house twelve stoves operating under test conditions was

obtained. The twelve stoves with all necessary measuring

equipment with automatic controls for round-the-clock

operations were Installed and checked under operating conditions . Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; Chemical and metallurgical examinations will be made of tube specimens showing premature failure and of tubes lasting the life of the test.

The stoves will be burned twenty-four hours a day until

at least two thousand hours burning time have been logged.

A regular time schedule will be followed In measuring and

Inspecting the upper air tubes as burning time accumulates.

The project will be concluded In Fiscal Year 1958 and a final report will be prepared.
15 -

AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING, AND REFRIGERATION (con.)

1003-20-4891 Standardization of Refrigeration Unit

Components

Objectives

The purpose of this program Is to evaluate a

tentative military standard for refrlgerant-to-alr heat

exchangers of the type used for condensers and evaporators in portable military refrigerating units.

Importance of the Project; The military agencies are faced

with a difficult procurement and stocking problem because

of the lack of standardization of components used in

assembling the various refrigerating machines used by

them. In the past the Armed Services have bought and

used refrigerating units for their portable and mobile

refrigerating equipment that were developed by various

manufacturers to meet their military requirements. There

has been almost no interchangeability of parts in units

of similar capacity and there has been limited progress

in simplifying and limiting the number of different sizes

of the major components required to cover all of the

applications. This has resulted in large inventories of

spare parts^ and unnecessary obsolescence of equipment in

the field ag(^ loss of refrigerated product from breakdowns

that could/be speedily repaired because spare parts were

not available in the right place. The present test program

will evaluate the practicability of the tentative military

standard as a basis for classification and the proposed

A.S,R,E. testing and rating method^ will serve as a basis

for recommending modifications to both of these standards,

and will also reveal whether interchangeable air-cooled

condensers are now available for military refrigerating

units

,

Activity Summary; This is a new project, approved during May

1957^ for work to be done in Fiscal Year 1958,

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958° The immediate objective for

Fiscal Year 1958 is~^~~determine whether air-cooled condensers made of combinations of copper, aluminum, and

steel can be standardized in heat-rejection capacity when

maximum overall dimensions, minimum tube and fin thickness,

minimum fin spacing, and minimum air circulation rate are

specified.

O603-3O-O613 Testing Wind Equipment

(See TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS)
16

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY

O9OO-II-O914 The Chemistry of Portland Cement

Objectives: To study the fundamental physical chemistry of

calcium' silicate systems related to Portland cement: To

obtain experimental data extending our knowledge of such

systems, and to find theoretical interpretations yielding

general correlation of the facts observed; to develop new

experimental techniques if needed for obtaining the required data; to relate the results when possible with the

burning of portland cement clinker and the hardening of

concrete, for improved understanding of these processes

and ultimately for the advancement of their technologies.

Importance of the Project: The portland cement industry is

large, and its product is vital to many parts of the nation’s economy. Fundamental research on the physical

chemistry of silicates at high temperatures and in hydrous

systems, of the type done in this project, is of potential

Importance to many other fields of industry, and of science

as well.

This research project has been carried on by the Portland

Cement Association Fellowship since 1924 . It has done

pioneering work on the formulas of the major cement clinker

constituents, the measurement of heats of hydration, the

application of spectrography and X-ray diffraction to

cement analysis, and the development of new tools and

approaches to phase equilibrium research at high temperatures. Almost all cement manufacture is now receiving the

benefits of some of these developments.

Activity Summary: This is a continuing project. During the

year the work has been concentrated in the fields of hightemperature phase equilibria and X-ray crystallography.

The study of the quaternary system Ca 0- 2 Ca 0 .Si 02 “ 12 Ca 0 . 7 Al203 “

2 GaO‘Fe 202 was continued. The techniques of quenching,

differential thermal analysis, and microscopic and X-ray

examination are being used for the determination of solidliquid equilibria involving the 2CaO.Fe202 solid solution

phase, which had been previously determined in the ternary

boundary system lacking slllcao

The high-temperature centrifuge used to study the senary

system K20-Na20-Ca0-Al203-Fe203-Si02 was rebuilt and considerably Improved, particularly by the provision of

forced-air cooling for the metal shaft to which the ceramic

rotor is attached. The determination of the course of

crystallization for selected mixtures in the composition

range of practical cement clinkers is continuing.
17

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (cono)

0900 - 11-0914 (con.)

The study of X-ray diffraction intensities for calcium

hydroxide was used as a test of a newly procured microdensitometer, with special modifications for single-crystal

X-ray diffraction patterns. The development of optimum

techniques for applying this Instrument to X-ray diffraction promises to Increase greatly the precision obtainable

by film methods.

The previous study of the 2Ca0<-Fe^0^ solid solution in the

ternary system suggested the possibility that structural

changes occur within the composition range previously

thought to represent complete solid solution without change

of phase. This question is being further studied by singlecrystal X-ray diffraction methods. Crystals of a composition approximating 4CaO » Al 20^ °Pe 20^ are being studied.

Publications Incidental to the program Included:

"Differential Thermal Analysis Above 1200°C," by T. P.

Newkirk (submitted to J. Amer. Ceram. Soc.)

"The Pseudo-Ternary System Calcium Oxlde-Monocalcium

Aluminate ( CaO » AI 2

O 0 ) -Dicalcium Ferrite ( 2CaO • Fe^O^ ) , " by

T. F. Newkirk and R, D. Thwalte. (Manuscript being reviewed preparatory to publication in the NBS J. of Research)

"Hydration of Trlcalcium Silicate," by Max Swerdlow,

H, F. McMurdie, and Francis A. Heckman, (published by the

Royal Microscopical Society in "Proceedings of International

Conference on Electron Microscopy held at London, July,

1954" )

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 * The studies of phase equilibria

and crystal structure will be continued. In addition, a study of the physical chemistry of hydrous calcium silicate

systems will be started, with emphasis on the determination

of the activities of ionic species in calcium silicate

solutions, and their effect on the equilibria and rates of

formation of the hydrous silicates.

O906-II-O923 Chemical Properties of Cementing Materials

(See Properties of Materials)
18 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con.)

1001-11-1002 Dimensional Stability of Reinforced

Concrete

Objectives: To secure basic data in the laboratory on the

dimensional changes in reinforced concrete undergoing drying shrinkage.

Importance of the Project: It is known that the dimensional

stability of reinforced concrete as affected by moisture

is dependent upon the amount and disposition of reinforcement, the size of reinforcing bars andthelr bond strength.

The dimensional changes in concrete structures must be

accurately known in order to make proper allowances for

them in the design of structures. The literature on reinforced concrete contains only a meager amount of useful

data on this subject and information is needed to establish

a precise relationship between the drying shrinkage of

small unrestrained concrete specimens and the length

changes which may be expected in reinforced concrete members of sections commonly encountered in design.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 » (1) Review the applicable literature on shrinkage of reinforced concrete members to

determine the dimensions of specimens and methods of measuring dimensional changes which yield the most useful

information. (2) Fabricate reinforced concrete and companion plain concrete specimens of the same cross sectional

area to determine the effect of the following variables:

ratio of reinforcement, size of bars, disposition of reinforcement relative to the periphery of the specimen,

bonding efficiency of the reinforcement and, if possible,

the rate of drying as determined by the ambient relative

humidity. (3) Make measurements of the over-all changes

in length of concrete and steel as well as of the changes

in length in short gage lengths at midlength of the specimens. (I4.) Reduce those data which will be available at the

end of the first year. Large specimens will require longer

periods to attain equilibrium.

1001-11 -4812 Stresses in Masonry

Objectives : To determine by tests of small-scale models and

by approximate theoretical analysis the directions and relative intensities of stresses in masonry and monolithic

concrete walls which are restrained from shortening at the

foundation level while undergoing drying shrinkage or

thermal contraction.
19 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con.)

IOOI-II-I4.812 (cone)

Importance of the Project : The widespread cracking of walls

of concrete masonry has necessitated large expenditures

for repair. Extensive experience with structures and the

results of tests conducted in laboratories both indicate

that drying shrinkage is responsible for much of the cracking observed. Despite widespread interest in this problem

the literature contains little or no information which engineers can use to estimate the minimum spacing of control

joints or the least amount, location, and form of reinforcement that would be most effective in minimizing objectionable cracking under various conditions.

Activity Summary : This has been a continuing project which

was initiated in 1953<> Curing the past year all scheduled

experimental work was brought to completion. Six aluminum

wall-steel foundation models representing walls of different length to height ratios and with foundations producing

different degrees of restraint were subjected to load tests

simulating shrinkage in masonry walls. The data obtained

in these tests have been reduced to relative stress values.

A numerical solution obtained with the assistance of SEAC

was added to two numerical solutions obtained previously,

thus completing three of the scheduled four. Experimental

and theoretical results show favorable comparison and have

been prepared for presentation in the final report to which

will be added the results of the fourth theoretical solution

pending completion delayed by computer malfunctioning.

O 906-I2 -O9 IO Physical Properties of Concreting

Materials

(See Properties of Materials)

1001-12-1000 Masonry and Reinforced Concrete

Objectives : To secure basic data in the laboratory on the

strength, behavior under load, elastic properties and

durability of masonry and masonry components, concrete

and reinforced concrete.

Importance of the Project : Data on properties of masonry

and reinforced concrete are needed as a means of establishing satisfactory specification and code requirements

for various service conditions and for effecting economies.

There is a need for up-to-date information on properties

of masonry constructed with modern Portland masonry cements , and collaborative work with Masonry Research Fellowship
- 20 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con.)

1001-12-1000 (con.)

is needed to secure this information. In order to predict

durability of brick and stone under various conditions of

weathering, there is need for correlating various physical

properties determined in the laboratory with results of

outdoor exposure tests. In order to improve design practices and conserve steel, it is necessary to study the

behavior of reinforced concrete structural members under

load with respect to their strength, stiffness, elastic

properties, and modes of failure.

Activity Summary: This is a continuing project. Favorable

results were obtained in the development of an accelerated

test method for measuring the drying shrinkage of concrete

masonry units. The shrinkage characteristics of thin

laminas cut from either top or bottom of blocks at right

angles to the face shell showed good concordance with control specimens, while the time required for the test was

reduced by a factor of about '^he new type of bond

specimen previously described proved to be a valuable tool

in estimating the widths of cracks at the periphery of

reinforcing bars. This width was found to be significantly

less than the width of crack measured at the exterior surface of the concrete. A report on this work was prepared

for publication. Another report prepared for publication

presented a new analytical treatment of the problem of

cracking and data showing the effect of compressive

strength of concrete on the width and spacing of cracks.

The study of bond strengths of masonry assemblages with

concrete masonry units and clay brick as component materials was completed by the Masonry Research Fellowship.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 - ( 1 ) Properties of masonry: Contlnue studies of~~properties of masonry in collaboration

with Masonry Research Fellowship by carrying out full scale

tests of masonry walls to determine their resistance to

transverse, compressive and racking loads, ( 2 ) Durability

of brick and stone: Continue periodic observations of stone

exposure test wall and other long-term exposure test specimens and study different laboratory procedures which may

be useful for predicting durability of marbles. ( 3 ) Continue the evaluation of the accelerated shrinkage test

method with respect to concrete masonry units cured with

low pressure steam. (I4.) Evaluate the usefulness of the

tensile bond test specimen with regard to measurement of

the effective modulus of elasticity of bars embedded in

concrete and flexural rigidity of reinforced concrete.
21

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con,)

1001-12-4811 Precast Concrete Structures

Objectives; To evaluate and develop prototype design of thinshell precast and prestressed concrete elements and structure s

Importance of the Project : Precast thin-shell ribbed panels

and hollow-section framing members are a relatively new

type of construction, particularly those containing prestressed reinforcement. Buildings making use of structural members of this type are being planned at present

by the Bureau of Yards and Docks and technical data are

urgently needed on such design aspects as the crosssection of the members, orientation and amount of reinforcement, elastic stability, adequacy of water- tightne ss and resistance to fire.

Activity Summary: This is a continuing project which was

initiated in fiscal Year 1953* During the past fiscal

year extensive work was done in the study of properties

of slabs formed by arranging cellular units in a checkerboard fashion and prestressing them in two directions.

Slabs consisting of concrete cells and of cement-asbestos

were Included in the study. A l6- by 30-ft building of

precast thin-shell concrete panels was used to study the

adequacy of watertightness of various calking materials

that were installed in the joints between roof and wall

panels. An investigation was made to determine the effect

of transverse reinforcement on lap-welded splices in precast thin-shell box girders as it pertains to the rotation

of the joint due to eccentricities and the cracking of the

concrete due to this rotation. Pilot tests of pretensioned prestressed beams representative of the longitudinal ribs used in thin-shell construction were planned and

designed to determine the effect of plain and deformed

prestressing tendons on the load-deflection relationship

and the formation of cracks under load. Observations of

several thin-shell precast roof panels were continued to

determine their behavior under sustained load.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : (1) Further evaluation of pres tressed cellular assemblies: Prestressed slabs consisting of mesh reinforced cellular units will be studied

with regard to their stiffness, flexural strength and

resistance to shear. (2) Water-tightness of joints between precast elements: This investigation will be

expanded by completely enclosing the 16- by 30-ft panel

frame test structure and testing additional calking
22 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, ATO MASONRY (con.)

1001-12-4811 (con.)

materials along with evaluation tests of protective coatings for concrete roofs and walls. ( 3 ) Further evaluation

of the effect of transverse reinforcement lap-welded splices

Additional tests of precast thln-shell box girders and other

assemblies containing lap-welded splices will be made to

determine the type, placement, and optimum amount of transverse reinforcement necessary to minimize the rotation of

the splices and the cracking caused by it. ( 4 ) Behavior

of thln-shell elements under sustained loads: Observation

will be continued on several thin-shell precast roof panels

to determine their behav:.or under sustained load.

IOOI-I2-4814 Design Stresses in Reinforcement

Objectives : To provide basic data needed for determining

proper design tensile stresses in concrete reinforcement

of different physical properties.

Importance of the Project : For the national welfare, it is

obviously desirable that allowable design stresses be as

liberal as is compatible with reasonable safety and satisfactory performance of reinforced concrete structures.

Test data indicate that the resisting bending moments of

beams falling by yielding of reinforcement are a linear

function of the yield strength of the reinforcement. If

failures by yielding of the reinforcement were the only

manner of failure possible, immediate increases in allowable design tensile stresses would be warranted for some

types of reinforcement. Unfortunately, there are other

possible causes of failure and of unsatisfactory performance and their probability often is not predictable. Test

data are needed to enable designing engineers to predict

loads causing diagonal tension failures, deflections,

widths of cracks, and bond strengths when the reinforcement is subjected to unusually high tensile stresses.

Activity Summary : The experimental work dealing with the

effect of stresses in longitudinal reinforcing steel on

the resistance of beams to shear was completed. By means

of suitable instrumentation, it became possible to estimate the amount of shear transferred by the longitudinal

reinforcement across diagonal tension cracks and to

determine the radically different elastic curves generated by the compression and tension faces of the beam

within the shear span. It is hoped that these data will

be helpful in determining the mechanism of failure of

beams in diagonal tension.
. 23 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con.)

1001-12-4814 (con.)

A report on the previously completed series of flexural

tests is being prepared for publication.

Plans for Fiscal Year 19^8 : The new experimental work in

this project will deal with bond characteristics of modern

deformed bars having a yield strength of 100,000 psi. The

purpose of this study is to develop data which would establish the relationship between bond values and ratios of

length of embedment to bar diameter, for two different

sizes of bars. Before proceeding with beam tests, preliminary tests of pull-outs will be made to determine the

range of lengths of embedment,

A report on the results of diagonal tension tests will be

prepared for publlcationo

IOOI-I2-4815 Insulating Concretes

Ob je cti ve

: To secure basic data on properties of insulating

concretes needed to evaluate the usefulness of different

varieties of insulation concrete and for preparation of

an improved general specification.

Importance of the Project : In recent years lightweight aggregate and cellular concretes have been used in thermal

insulation ’’fill” for roofs, cavity walls and underground

steam lines. Current specifications for the quality of

these materials are not satisfactory since they do not

always insure that the finished product has the desired

properties. There is an immediate need for an improved

specification based on a study of properties of Insulating

concretes which would incorporate means for controlling

the product on the construction site and secure a material

of desired properties.

Activity Summary : Compressive strengths of several perlite

and vermlcullte concretes were determined as functions of

mix proportions, wet and dry densities, size and shape of

specimens, and type of curing. Several test procedures

were evaluated in an attempt to formulate a method of

determining the bulk specific gravity of perlite and

vermlcullte
- 24 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (coric)

1001-'12-48l5 (con.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958° Continue the experimental work

wTth perlite, vermiculite and cellular concretes to determine such properties as indentation and compressive strengths,

drying shrinkage and rate of drying as functions of composition, proportions and density of the mixes. Evaluate the

properties of small reinforced slabs made with insulating

concretes to determine the feasibility of combining insulation with structural function.

0903-20-4428 properties of Concrete at Elevated

Temperature s~ Objectives: Study the mechanism responsible for spalling and

failure of concrete when exposed to Intense thermal shock.

I mportance of the Project : Concrete aprons used by jet aircraft were often observed to deteriorate rapidly, even

explosively, as a result of the extreme thermal shock

occurring both during the waimi-up and take-off periods.

While it was generally assumed that the water content of

the concrete was an important factor in deterioration of

concretes subjected to severe thermal shock, it was not

known whether both bound and unbound water were involved

or what effect such factors as mode of preparation, type

of aggregate, porosity, etc., would have on the amount of

water retained. Such information needs to be obtained in

order to design new concrete formulae with improved thermal stability.

Activity Summary: Data were obtained which Indicate that

the primary cause of spalling of concretes when subjected

to rapid thermal shock is related to the total amount of

unbound water present in the concrete. Additional data

were obtained on the rate and amount of water that is

absorbed by concretes as a function of the mode of preparation, type of aggregate employed and porosity of the

hardened mass. Wide variations in both the rate and

amount of water absorbed and returned were observed depending on the type of aggregate used. The available

pore space or degree of consolidation in the aggregate

is the dominant factor in the selection of a proper aggregate. Measurements completed on the water vapor

pressure developed in neat cement when heated rapidly,

giving results approximating those of the Steam Tables.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : The immediate goal is to fix

the dried conditions or water content limit for failure

under test. The role of the aggregate as to water holding
- 25 -

CEMENT, CONCRETE, AND MASONRY (con.)

0903-20-4428 (con.)

capacity, etc., will continue to be studied. A study of

the mechanism by which water vapor travels through the

concrete will continue.

0906-20-4473 Chemical and Physical Properties

of Dolomitlc Limes

(See Properties of Materials)

0906-30-4415 Cement Reference Laboratory

(See Testing Materials and Products)

0906-30-4433 i\cceptance Testing, Cement

(See Testing Materials and Products)

0906- 30 -444U Miscellaneous Testing

(See Testing Materials and Products)
- 26 -

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS

050 I- 30-0501 Preparation of Specifications and Standards

for Paints, Varnishes, Lacquers, and

Component Materials

Objectives

;

To provide Federal Specifications for organic

coating materl^^ls and for the products used in their formulation. Also, to participate in the development of standards for similar materials by ASTM and ISO.

Importance of the Project; The competitive bidding system

under which most Government paint purchases are made depends for its success on the availability of documents

that provide accurate and adequate descriptions of the

products purchased. Specifications furnish such a basis

for mutual understanding between the industrial supplier

and the Government buyer. Government procurement agencies,

notably the General Services Administration, have long depended on the Bureau to assist them in the technical aspects

of specification writing. Participation in the standardizing activities of technical societies provides an opportunity to keep abreast of developments in this area and to

utilize them to best advantage in the Federal program.

Activity Summary: The Bureau has been responsible for the

development of paint procurement specifications for many

years. During Fiscal 1957 the principal activity with

respect to Federal Specifications was in reviewing and

submitting comments on new, revised, and amended specifications for coating materials. Assistance was given in drafting a revised edition of the Commercial Standard for prefinished wall panels and cooperation was continued in the

international standardization program for lac resins through

ASTM and ISO.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: 1) Complete revision of standard

for prefinished wall panels and review of Federal Specifications for organic coatings and ingredient materials as required. 2) Cooperate with ASTM and ISO in preparation of

standards for organic coating raw materials.
- 27 -

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS (con.)

O7OO-3O-O719 Preparation of Specifications for

Organic and Fibrous Materials

ObjectivesTo provide specifications for organic and fibrous

materials

Importance of the Project: It is an established practice in

Federal and State Governments and in industry to purchase

supplies that conform to minimum standards as set forth in

purchase specif icatlons . One of the functions of the

National Bureau of Standards is to cooperate with Government

and nongovernmental agencies and technical organizations in

the preparation of specif icatlons ^ test methods, and standards

for organic and fibrous materials for use in purchasing these

materials. The activity is conducted through leadership and

membership on committees and acceptance of responsibility for

the preparation of detail specifications and test method

standards. The NBS has accepted responsibility for Federal

Test Method Standards for rubber, textiles, paper, leather,

plastics, insulated wire and cable, adhesives, and floor

coverings

020I-3O-O208 Specifications for Lamps and Color

(See MISCELLANEOUS)

0400-40-0497 Recommendations for Radiation Protection

(See MISCELLANEOUS)

1005-40-1022 Construction Codes and Safety Standards

Objectives

To assist in the preparation of safety and construction standards either by serving as a sponsor or by

furnishing technical service to committees under the sponsorship of other technical or scientific organizations.

Importance of the Project: Uniformity of safety and construction standards is of the 'Utmost importance to industry and

to the public. If every city and state were to prepare different requirements, mass production of such items as elevators, crene hoists and derricks, would not be possible.
28 -

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS (con.)

I 1005-40-1022 (con.)

Each piece of equipment would have to be designed and

built to meet local laws and ordinances. The common use

of standards and data by all organizations in the field

has the effect of gradually reducing unnecessary differences in technical safety requirements and of producing

uniformity where that is practicable and desirable. NBS

cooperates in efforts to bring about greater uniformity

on a voluntary basis, recognizing that there are some

local conditions that justify differences in safety requirements. It is realized that in many cases it is of

equal Importance to strike a balance between safety and

health and the cost of construction. New materials, constructions, and methods should be considered and permitted

by codes as soon as their worth has been demonstrated by

test and trial use.

Activity Summary; During the current year, active work has

been carried on in connection with:;

1. Cooperation in development of model building codes.

2. A survey was made of existing municipal building

codes

.

3. Assisted in the reorganization of ASTM E-6 (Methods

of Testing Building Constructions).

4. Preparation of a draft of ASA Standard A41 (Reinforced Masonry) for letter ballot.

5. A rough draft is being prepared for a new publication "Capacities of Stacks in Sanitary Drainage

Systems for Buildings."

6. Previously unpublished data on surging flow in horizontal drains is being assembled and made ready for

publication.

7. Revision of Part II of the National Electrical

Safety Code has been carried on actively by several

subcommittees

.
" 29 -

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS (coRo)

1005-40-1022 (con.)

8. In the Code for Protection against Lightning, the revision of the section on the Protection of Oil Storage

Tanks was completed, the letter ballot taken, and results reported to the annual meeting of the National

Fire Protection Association (a co-sponsor). This will

be printed as an NBS Handbook as soon as the present

stock of h46 is exhausted.

9. The Executive Committee prepared a list of editorial

changes and a few code amendments which have been

approved by the Sectional Committee. Prior to reprinting the Elevator Code, these are soon to be submitted

to ASA for approval. Tentative drafts of the Inspectors' Manual have been prepared and much of the new

material reviewed by the Manual Subcommittee.

10. An editorial revision of the Head and Eye Code was made.

11. A tentative draft of a revised Safety Code for Electric

Fences was prepared for circulation and comment.

12. The Section has actively participated in the work of

other ASA Sectional Committees. These Include Bll

Safety Code for Punch Presses, Recommended Practices for

Electrical Installations of Textile Machinery, Safety

Code for Parking Garages A113j and Specifications for

Steel Conduit and Electrical Metallic Tubing,

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; Carrying on the revision of the

National Electrical Safety Code and possible preparation of

a revised discussion of Part II (overhead and underground

transmission lines). Completion of the Elevator Inspectors'

Manual, including necessary line drawings and photographs.

Further work on the Code for Electric Fenpes,with emphasis

on acceptable shock ratings. Review proposed changes in

National Electrical Code. Submission of Head and Eye Code to

ASA for approval and preparation of copy for printing. Development of further formulas for wind pressure on structures.

Consider proposals for change in Code for Portable Metal

Ladders based on field use. Endeavor to eliminate existing

differences in requirements between Code for Protection

against Lightning and the Standard of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc, Complete paper on Capacity of Soil Stack;

publish data on surging flow in horizontal drains; work with

the Building Research Advisory Board Review Committee on
30 -

CODES AND SAFETY STANDARDS (con.)

1005-40-1022 (con.)

program for plumbing research and a plumbing manual for

Federal Agencies; study earthquake loading used in building design; and make a detailed study in cooperation with

10.02 of fire protection requirements of model building

codes

.
- 31 -

FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT

O7O6-II-3872 Thermal Decomposition of Cellulose

Ob je ctive

: To gain an understanding of the mechanism of

thermal decomposition and flame retardation of cellulose

so that improved flame-resistant cellulose textiles can

be produced.

Importance of the Project: The QRDC requested the NBS to

conduct research on the flame proofing of fibers and

fabrics. In practice j various inorganic additives are

used as flame retardants. However, the mechanism of

their action has not been fully established. It is assumed that they catalyze the thermal decomposition reaction

producing water and carbon dioxide at the expense of the

reaction producing flammable tars. It appears evident,

therefore, that the study of the mechanism and kinetics

of the thermal decomposition of cellulose, treated and

untreated, is necessary for a thorough understanding of

flame retardant action.

Activity Summary: This project was started in December,

l^^i|. Samples of cellulose triacetate, Fortisan, NO2-

oxidized cellulose, and cellubiose, with or without

flame retardants, were pyrolyzed in a high vacuum, and

also in nitrogen at atmospheric pressure. Rates of degradation in a vacuum and activation energies were determined for cellulose triacetate and Fortisan. As in the

case of cotton cellulose, addition of sodium carbonate

to cellulose triacetate resulted in a decrease of yield

of tar. Pyrolysis in nitrogen yielded less tar and more

HpO and COp . Cellulose triacetate and Fortisan have

about the same initial rates of degradation and activation energies as cotton cellulose. Celloblose degrades

similarly to viscose rayon. NOp-oxldized cellulose

yields very little tar and degrades initially very rapidly.

IOO2-II-4873 Mechanism of Fire Extinguishment

Ob je ctive s

To provide basic information on the mechanism

of fire extinguishment and the effectiveness of various

types of extinguishing agents as applied to fires in

different fuels and to study specific ignition, combustion, and explosion, characteristics of propellants and/or

mixtures of them with common materials.
32 -

FIRE PROTECTION ATO EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

1002 -11-4873 (con.)

Importance of Project : The current trend in the Defense Department toward greater emphasis on development of large

missiles of the self-propelled rocket type has resulted in

the introduction of a whole series of new types of fuels

together with their associated fire hazard problems. Because of the urgent demand for solutions to these problem.s,

it appears desirable to investigate the nature of initiation

and extinguishment of fires Involving such fuels with more

than trial and error techniques. The investigation proposed

here is designed to provide more basic information than is

currently available on the mechanisms of extinguishment of

fires, special emphasis being given to those involving propellant materials.

Activity Summary: A considerable amount of the work proposed

for fiscal year 195? was accomplished with primary emphasis

on dry chemical extinguishment,

1. A review was completed of recent work relating to mechanism of fire extinguishment. This made it obvious that new

techniques were required for measuring the effectiveness of

various agents,

2. Two laboratory methods were devised to measure the effects of rate of application and powder particle size on

extinguishing efficiency. These methods permitted a certain

degree of separation of some of the factors considered

likely to be important in controlling the effectiveness of

agents when applied to fires. Means were also devised to

measure the dispersibility characteristics of powders.

These measurement methods are all new and provide substantial means for studying extinguishing agents,

3 . The proposed work on water sprays was deferred at the

request of the sponsor to permit measurements of the ignition behavior of two solid propellants.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 ° General emphasis will be placed

on the development and use of methods for application of

agents to larger fires in which a closer approach to full

scale will be made. Specific tasks may be outlined as

follows: (1) Continue development of new uniform rate

powder applicator and use this to study effect of powder

particle size, rate of application, etc,, on extinguishment

of flammable liquid fires on about 5 in, diameter pans,

(2) Continue work with explosion tube apparatus for study

of chemical decomposition products of powders, ( 3 ) Additional studies will be made as requested by the sponsor on

the initiation of combustion in propellants and other materials ,
- 33 - FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

I002-I2-I029 Fire Hazard Studies

Objectives

To investigate methods of preventing and reducing

losses resulting from accidental fires.

Importance of Project; There is a constant need for up-to-date

information on the fire resistive properties of new building

materials and of fabricated assemblies, particularly those

designed to reduce weight and cost as far as possible, A

better knowledge of the basic mechanism of ignition of materials as a result of self-heating phenomena, and the study

of combustible characteristics of materials is essential for

effective detection and control of fires. There is little

incentive for industry to carry on these researches. Most

of the results of the work bear particularly on the development of safe practices and both industry and other Government agencies look to the MBS for leadership in this field.

Activity Summary; This is a continuing project. Many of the

proposed tasks for last fiscal year have been completed. The

proposed paper on fire resistance study of cellular concretes

though not finished, is in process. The fire resistance

studies on plaster incorporating perlite aggregates has been

completed and is being prepared as a publication. The new

method pf measuring ignition behavior of materials has been

used successfully to study a large variety of materials and

a paper is in preparation on this work. The proposed work on

development of a new combustibility test method was postponed

to permit the development of a high speed direct dynamic

electric analogy method of solving transient heat flow problems. This device was designed, constructed, and tested

within a nine month period and promises much for the estimating of relative fire endurance behavior of specimens. It is

in continual use. The radiant panel method for evaluating the

flame spread behavior of materials has been used to study a

group of plastic types, in connection with ASTM work, and a

group of wall finish materials furnished by the Australians as

representing materials on which full scale tests have been performed. Work continues on studies of fire retardant treated

fabrics

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958- 1) Fire resistance: The small scale

heat flow studies of plaster will be enlarged to include some

vermlcullte and sanded type aggregates. The recently developed

electronic analog will be used in an effort to achieve a better

understanding of the important variables in constructing fire

resistance test specimens and procedures used in performing

tests. 2) Combustibility test method: It is expected that the

development of the proposed new test method may be initiated
- 34 - FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con,)

1002-12-1029 (con.)

during the coming year. The method Involved is the use of an

adiabatic furnace calorimeter with provision for burning the

combustible content of the material under test at variable

temperature. 3) Fabric flammability: It is expected that the

study of fire retardant treated fabrics will be completed during the fiscal year.

1002-12-4872 Fire Resistance of Reinforced Concrete

Objectives

:

To provide basic information on the factors

affecting the fire endurance of reinforced concrete constructions . Importance of Project: Although reinforced concrete has long

been used as a building construction material^ its behavior

when exposed to fire is only very imperfectly understood.

This fact is emphasized by the results of recent tests performed for the Department of Defense in which early failure

was observed. Because of the very large amount of reinforced

concrete work erected each year by the Government, it seemed

likely that a better understanding of the necessary fire resistance construction requirements might result in some s-av- Ings in construction cost or at least Improve the overall

functional quality of the construction.

Activity Summary; The objectives outlined for completion during

the fiscal year have only partially been achieved because of

the rather modest financial support afforded the project during the fiscal year. Fire resistance tests were completed on

four large T beams. Additional small slab specimens were

fabricated and are now in condition for test. An analysis has

been initiated for the purpose of comparing computed fire endurance with that observed during experimental studies.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1998: Fire resistance tests will be performed on the small concrete slabs now available. Additional large beam specimens will be prepared to investigate

new methods which have been suggested for securing the concrete cover over the Reinforcing steel. Analysis will be

continued of fire resistance data now available for the purpose of determining the possibility of correlation with recent data and that predicted by theory.
„ 35 " FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHiyEENT (con.)

I005-12-I005 Lightning Hazards of Ifngrounded

Metallic Roofing. Siding, and

Thermal Insulation

Objective: To determine the possibility of ignition of combustible structural members, thermal insulation, or building contents by lightning striking ungrounded metal-roofed

or metal-sided buildings, and to Investigate the lightning

hazard of metallic foil or foil-covered organic insulation.

Importance of the Project: During the past decade, there has

been a relatively large increase in the number of metalroofed and metal-sided buildings constructed. This has

been partly due to an increased consciousness of fire

hazards on the part of the public (such roofing and siding

protect against fire spread due to flying embers) . Another

factor has been the more favorable relative price of metal

as compared with wood products. Inquiries received at NbS

indicate that metal roofing is being sold with the statement that it will protect against lightning and that such

roofing does not need to be grounded.

There has also been an Increase in the use of thermal insulation. Much of this material is combustible.

Where panels of metal foil or metallzed insulation are used

beneath an ungrounded metallic roof, there is always a fair

probability that such material may form a part of the path

to ground. There is, consequently, a possibility of ignition by an electric discharge or by drops of molten metal

from the fused follj or dust on a highly teated foil surface may become ignited.

The following data are needed: 1) The temperature at which

molten metal will ignite specific organic insulating materials; 2) The spread of fire in a vertical unit of typical construction; 3) Ignitablllty of various insulating

materials by an electrical discharge; I4.) The metallic

cross section necessary to carry a current capable of starting fire; and 5) The effect of current discharge through the

frame structure or ungrounded metallic roof and sidings.

Aotiyity Summary: A frame structure with a cross sectional

width of I 2 feet and a stud height of 8 feet, provided with

a sloping roof having a rise of one foot in three, has been

built. Corregated galvanized iron roofing was first tried.

Discharges of 12,^00 amp at 2 million volts ''went to earth"

through the wood framework. Corner posts and certain studs
- 36 - FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

1005-12-1005 (con.)

in the path were split. Tests were made by building a grounded steel-armored electrical cable to the center of

the overhead space, thus bringing grounded metal within

2 feet of the roof. On test, this gave a heavy current

flow along the sway bracing.

With one-mil (0.001 in.) aluminum foil placed betx'^^een

the studs, the top in contact with the metal roof and the

bottom about l/2 inch from a grounded metallic cable (BX)

,

combustible material such as cotton, excelsior, etc. could

be itnited repeatedly. Fires could also be started with

Kraft paper covered with l/2 mil (0.0005 in.) aluminum

foil. Apparently, a cross sectional area of l6 in. by l/2

mil will carry sufficient current to start fires.

A small graphite crucible with a long steel handle has

been made with which it is hoped to test the effect of

'small amounts of molten iron, and perhaps aluminum, on

various thermal insulating materials. An organic insulating material labelled as "fire retardant" sustained a flame for at least one minute before being extinguished

with a dry CO 2 extinguisher.

Attempts to produce molten metal by a discharge of 25,000

amp at one million volts failed because with the equipment

being used for the test the necessary "follow-up" current

is not available.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958-

Task 1. Investigate the conditions under which commonly

used thermal insulations of organic materials (cotton, wood

fiber, etc.) and light wooden members may be Ignited by an

electrical discharge.

Task 2. Test the ignltabillty of combustible thermal insulation with a foil covering and located in a wall space

between an ungrounded metal roof and the ground or the

possibility of ignition of building refuse (shavings, sawdust, etc.) in such a location by an electric discharge between the roof and ground.

Task 3» Investigate the effect of an incipient blaze in a wall of conventional construction.
37 -

FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con,)

1005-12-1005 (con,)

Task 4. Determine experimentally the temperatures at which

molten metals will Ignite flammable insulating materials.

Various small amounts of molten iron and possibly aluminum

will be used. This will be the amount that would be melted

by the energy in lightning strokes of various current ratings.

Task 5. Investigate the possibility of grounding metallic

foil or metallic-coated insulations by means of metallic foils

or strips which are, in turn, grounded.

Task 6, Prepare for publication the results obtained under

Tasks 1 to 5^ inclusive. The published material should be

in such form that it will be of maximum usefulness in preparation of building codes and of codes for protection against

lightning.

1002-20-4875 Fireproofing Structural Steel

Objectives

To investigate practical methods of protecting

structural steel members against early failure when exposed

to fire.

Importance of Project; In certain types of buildings such as

aircraft hangers, it is common practice to leave the structural steel work unprotected. In cases where sprinkler

protection is not furnished and fire hazard is high, this

practice can lead to great losses. There is on the market

today a variety of materials which can be applied by spray

techniques and are claimed to be useful for protection

against fire. Little performance data are available to

indicate their effectiveness.

Activity Summary: This project has been active only about five

months. As a result it was not possible to fully complete

the objectives proposed for ’57» Some preliminary small

fire resistance studies have however been performed on one

type of coating material. This has permitted selection of

a desirable support system for application of the coatings.

Nine manufacturers, of the eleven contacted, have been requested to furnish specimens of their coating materials.
- 38 -

FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

1002-20-4875 (con.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: The nine different coatings now

being procured will on receipt be evaluated on the basis

of the following studies:

(1) Fire resistance behavior of material as applied in

three thicknesses to both painted and unpalnted metal.

(2) Mechanical bond to metal.

(3) Limited studies of moisture equilibrium content.

(4) Chemical studies for corrosive acids.

(5) Thermal conductivity measurements.

(6) Short term corrosive behavior of metal backing.

1002-30-4829 Marine Material 1958

Objectives

:

To obtain data on the constructional features

and evaluate operating behavior of equipment and materials

requiring Coast Guard approval for marine use (confined to

work authorized in Fiscal Year 1956)

.

Importance of the Project: The Sponsor is charged with the

maintenance of safety aboard United States vessels. Because

of this responsibility it is necessary to perform examinations and tests on new devices and materials as well as

studies on parts which have shown poor behavior in service.

Because of the diversity of types of examination and testing

procedures required, it has been considered necessary to have

the work performed at the NBS.

Activity Summary: The work authorized under this project has

with one exception been completed. Uncertainty of early completion of the remaining work together with the costs of

maintaining the project active with the very small amount of

unexpended funds have made it desirable to close this project

out

.
- 39 -

FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

1002-30-4874 Marine Material 1937

Objectives

To obtain data on the constructional features

and evaluate operating behavior of equipment and materials requiring Coast Guard approval for marine use (confined to work authorized In Fiscal Year 1957)-

Importance of Project: The sponsor Is charged with the

maintenance of safety aboard United States vessels. Because of this responsibility It Is necessary to perform

examinations and tests on new devices and materials as

well as studies on parts which have shown poor behavior

In service. Due to the diversity of types of examination and testing procedures required^ It has been considered necessary to have the work performed at the MBS,

Activity Summary:

A total of 32 technical Investigations were completed.

These Involved metallurgical^ chemical^ and thermal

properties of marine materials. Twelve other Investigations were authorized but were not com.pleted.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938; The 12 unfinished Investigations will be completed. These Include studies on fire

resistance of bulkhead panels and deck coverings^, performance of dry cells and first aid fire extinguishing

devices, A new project will cover work authorized by

the sponsor In 1958,

1002-30-4876 Marine Material 1958

Objectives

To obtain data on the constructional features

and evaluate operating behavior of equipment and materials requiring Coast Guard approval for marine use

(confined to work authorized In Fiscal Year 1958).

Importance of Project; The sponsor Is charged with the

maintenance of safety aboard United States vessels. Because of this responsibility It Is necessary to perform

examinations and tests on new devices and materials as

well as studies on parts which have shown poor behavior

In service. Because of the diversity of types of examination and testing procedures required^ It has been

considered necessary to have the work performed at the

UBS,
FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT (con.)

1002-30-4876 (con.)

Activity Summary: Not applicable.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968 ' Examinations^ performance tests,

and development of new test procedures will be performed

as requested by the sponsor.
- 41 - HEAT TRANSFER

IOO 6-II-IOI5 Heat Transfer Measurements

Objectives

To obtain basic Information on the thermal conductivity and heat transfer properties of materials and

building constructions and to make calibration measurements on specimens for reference use by other laboratories;

to develop and Improve apparatus for accurate and expeditious measurements of these properties ^ and new methods

for specialized purposes; to conduct fundamental mathematical and experimental studies of the thermal characteristics

of materials and their applications In building constructions , Importance of the Project; The thermal conductivity and heat

transfer measurements made In this laboratory oh Insulating and building materials are relied on for J)urposes of

design, specifications, and procurement by governmental

agencies. They are considered by governmental agencies,

private Industry, and technical societies as a paramount

source of dependable data for guidance In this field.

Other laboratories utilize NBS calibrated reference specimens for standardizing their equipment. The services on

measurements and calibrations of the thermal conductivity

of metals at high temperatures appear not to be furnished

by any other laboratory In the country; they have been In

continuous use for the past two years by defense agencies

and a few Industrial laboratories.

Activity Summary : This Is a continuing project. In Fiscal

Year 1957 ^ measurements were made of the thermal conductivity of a number of rock specimens from core drill

samples, and of some special-purpose plastics, ,-uslng the

new stainless steel bar comparison apparatus. Development

of a ceramic-core radial flow apparatus was continued, and

measurements were made with It of the thermal conductivity

at elevated temperatures of a variety of granular Insulations, Due to voluntary separation of the operator of the

high temperature metals apparatus, a backlog of metal

specimens accumulated. During the training period of a new

operator. Improvements were made to the apparatus, and a

new procedure of calculating results was developed, which

have considerably Improved the accuracy of results and Increased the productiveness of the Individual tests. Measurements on metal specimens are currently being made at a very

satisfactory rate.
42

HEAT TRANSFER (con.)

1006-11-1015 (con.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958. Emphasis will be placed on completion of laboratory work^ and preparation of papers for

publication, on the apparatuses for measuring the thermal

conductivity of (a) metals at temperatures up to 700°C,

(b) granular materials and preformed pipe insulations at

temperatures up to 1500^P, and (c) rocks and solids at

room temperatures.

A mathematical analysis of the effect of the distribution

of thermal mass and insulating material in wall constructions on the Indoor temperature stability of buildings

exposed to the sun has been initiated. Quite complex

mathematic^ are involved, but solutions capable of numerical evaluation are obtainable for relatively simple

boundary conditions, from which the potential value of an

experimental investigation of the effect with more varied

but practical Internal conditions can be judged. The study

will be carried forward mathematically and by use of an

available electronic analog equipment, possibly including

some simple experimental trials of prototype walls.

1006-11-4886 Effect of Nickel on the Thermal

Conductivity of Steels

Objectives

;

To obtain quantitative data on the effects of

nickel addition to nickel alloy steels on the thermal conductivity of the alloy at temperatures ranging from -30OOF

to temperatures approaching 1000°F.

Importance of the Project; The effects of nickel addition on

the physical constants of nickel alloy steels are not at

present precisely known quantitatively. The sponsor of the

project has made arrangements to obtain much of the needed

information by investigations at other laboratories but has

been unable to find an outside laboratory equipped for

thermal conductivity determinations. The accumulated data

of the effect of nickel on alloy steels is Intended for

publication in the proposed revised Data Book "Nickel Alloy

Steels" which will make the information available generally

to metallurgists and other technically interested people.
- 43 -

1006-11-4886 (con„)

HEAT TRANSFER (con.,)

Activity Summary: Because of pressure of other work and lack

of personnel, activity during Fiscal Year 1957 was limited

to development of a suitable test method, A trial specimen of AISI 1030 steel was prepared, and successful runs

were made with It at the temperatures of boiling water,

and melting Ice,

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958- Conduct and complete measurements of the thermal conductivity of the six specimens of

nickel alloy steel furnished by the sponsor. Prepare a paper on the results for publication.

1006-12-4887 Moisture In Roof Insulation

Objectives

To provide data for estimating or calculating

the thermal Insulating effect of various types of Insulated roof deck constructions under similar service conditions; to Investigate and determine the effectiveness

of various methods of expelling, under service circumstances, moisture that may be present In Insulations as a result of Initial moisture, or later accumulation.

Importance of the Project: Concrete roof decks are commonly

Insulated by thermal Insulations of various kinds laid on

the deck and covered by built-up roofing. The latter Is

practically Impermeable to water or water vapor, and moisture retained In the Insulation causes serious loss of

Insulating value of the roof. Discrepancies between

actual heat loads and those calculated using thermal conductivities based on laboratory measurements are of

practical Importance In regard to the performance of both

heating and air conditioning systems. To evaluate these

discrepancies, quantitative Information Is needed concerning the effect of Inltlally-present or accumulated

moisture on the Insulating performance of various types

of roof-deck Insulations,

Some roof deck Insulations contain substantial amounts of

moisture when they are placed, and often cannot be thoroughly dried before roofing Is applied. Various means of

allowing such Insulations to dry In service, such as vents

to outdoor air, moderately vapor-permeable bases, or

combinations, appear possible, and warrant Investigation

as a guide to construction requirements and applications.
44

HEAT TRANSFER (con,)

1006-12-4887 (con.)

Activity Summary; During Fiscal Year 1957^ observations of the

effect of moisture on the Insulating value of several different roof deck Insulations were concluded. Data were obtained for the specimens when Initially dry, and for three

successive Increments In moisture content, measurements

being made at each moisture content under simulated summer

and winter conditions. After preparation of new specimens,

work was Initiated on the preliminary phases of an Investigation of the moisture-expelling effect of vents through the

roofing, and of a moderately vapor-permeable substructure.

A draft of a report on work concluded Is In progress.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968: Continuation and completion of

the third experimental phase of the project, studying the

moisture-expelling effects of air vents through the roofing,

and of moderately vapor-permeable under-decks, as determined

by exposure of a variety of different Insulated roof deck

specimens to simulated seasonal and diurnal temperature

changes. Preparation of a report to the sponsor on the results of the first two phases of the project, covering the

experimental findings as to the effect on the Insulating

value of various roof deck constructions of (a) exposure

temperature variations with and without moisture present and

(b) different degrees of moisture content In various Insulations under similar exposure temperature conditions. A

final summary report will be drafted after completion of the

third phase of the project.
„ 45 - PLUMBING AND FLUID MECHANICS

O603-II-O618 Fluid Mechanics Research

Objectives

To provide basic information on the mechanics of

flow of water and airc

Importance of Project ; In nearly every phase of technology

problems arise in connection with the flow of fluids or

movement of bodies through themo Solutions to these problems mean better performance of equipment^, new means of

accomplishing some objective^ or more reliable means of

calculating performance. The problems arise mainly through

ignorance of the basic mechanisms involving the effect of

fluid friction on the flow near solid surfaces or surfaces

separating one fluid from another. These problems touch on

many diversified fields and their solution may have immediate or long-range benefits. A general project which

provides means for basic research with continuity of effort,

and means for conducting investigations on methods of measurement, development of techniques, and permitting exploratory work on new problems and methods, is Important for

providing the flexibility necessary for original research.

Also provided is the Important activity of making available

information resulting from literature surveys, or resulting

from investigations conducted in the laboratory. The latter

may include reporting discontinued working-fund projects.

Activity Summary; A number of tasks were performed under this

project during the year. One investigation which continued

throughout the year was the investigation of interfacial

phenomena associated with a denser layer of salt water flowing under a pool of fresh water. Mixing, frictional effects,

and formation of waves at the Interface were studied. Other

tasks carried on for parts of the year were: 1) Study of

fluid friction on surfaces composed of hydrophobic material.

Methods of embossing teflon surfaces with alr-retalnlng pits,

closely spaced, were studied on small samples. Experiments

on smooth plates oscillating vertically through a water surface were performed. 2) Preparatory work on apparatus for

using bl-refringent fluids and polarized light for studying

intermittent turbulent flow in long, transparent tube. 3)

Investigation of resistance to flow in grooved pipe. The

grooving was designed to lower resistance. The opposite

effect was obtained. The reason for the failure was not determined, but roughness of grooves was suspected, and tests

were suspended, 4) Preparation of final report on terminated

project 3562 entitled, "Mechanism of Turbulence." 5) Writing

a Section B of Vol. 5 of Princeton Series, "High Speed Aerodynamics and Jet Propulsion." Section B entitled, "Turbulent

Flow," by G, B, Schubauer and C, M. Tchen.
46 - PLUMBING km) FLUID MECHANICS (con.)

0603-11-0618 (con„)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968 : The investigation of Interfaclal

phenomena between a flowing layer of salt water and a pool

of fresh water will be continued,

A small amount of work on items 4 and 5 will carry over into 19580 It is expected that more work will be done on

Item 1 , but the amount is indefinite. Item 2 will be carried on most vigorously during the summer^ but it is expected to remain active throughout the year.

0603-12-3586 Hydraulics of Short Pipes

Objectives

;

To develop culvert inlet designs of greater hydraulic efficiency than those currently used and to determine the hydraulic characteristics of the more common

types of non-rectangular culverts now being used.

Importance of the Project; The sponsor of the project estimates that approximately 12^ of the costs of multi-lane

highway construction, amounting to several hundred million

dollars per year, is required for culvert installations.

These high costs of modern culverts exert substantial * economic pressure upon the sponsoring agency to develop

culvert design methods of increased hydraulic precision,

both with regard to the design runoff and to the ability

of the culvert to economically discharge the design runoff.

The research program of the sponsoring agency in regard to

the hydraulics of culverts is therefore aimed at the dual

problem of l) developing means, by consideration of hydrological and meteorological data, to increase the precision

of estimating the peak runoff of drainage areas and 2 ) developing methods of Increasing the ability of economically

sized culverts to discharge these peak runoffs, particularly on supercritical slopes. The present project constitutes the sponsoring agency’s research activities relating

to the hydraulic characteristics of culverts of non-rectangular cross section.

Activity Summary: During the past fiscal year the second and

third progress reports of the investigation were issued to

the sponsoring agency. The second progress report summarized an experimental study of pressure conditions near the

outlet of a model culvert together with an analysis of the

variation of the resistance coefficient in the entrance

length and barrel of the culvert. In the third progress
PLUMBING AND FLUID MECHANICS (con.)

0603-12-3586 (con.)

report the effect of approach channel conditions on the

capacity of various types of pipe culverts was reported.

The development of improved types of culvert inlets was

initiated during the past fiscal year. Experimental results from this phase of the investigation have shown

that approach channel conditions substantially affect

culvert performance. Hence design standards developed

experimentally for a particular type of inlet cannot be

expected to apply with equal accuracy to all the possible

approach channel conditions that may be encountered in

the field. For this reason the experimentation has been

directed towards the establishments, for certain improved

types of inlets, of design standards based upon experimental data secured under a variety of unfavorable

approach flow conditions. Experimental results presently

available indicate that design standards of this type may

be developed experimentally which will apply to wide

variations of inlet geometry within certain broad classes

of inlets.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 ° The principal activity of the

project will be to develop inlet structures of increased

capacity under unfavorable approach flow conditions.

1005-12-1004 Gapaci tie

in

s of Horizontal Drains

llumbing Systems

Ob jectives

To determine the flow capacities of nominally

horizontal drains under conditions of surging flow, such

as actually occur in plumbing drains in service, and to

prepare a report on the results that will be useful to

design engineers and code writers.

Importance of the Projects Data- on which current loading

tables for building drains, building sewers, and horizontal branches are based are too limited in scope to

warrant the use that has been made of them. Additional

laboratory data should be obtained to supplement those

obtained in 1939 by the Nps. A detailed knowledge of

the manner in which various factors affect the flow capacities of drainage system components is essential to

a reasonable balance between economics and ability to

perform safely, as Would be reflected by the drain-loading tables in an ideal plumbing code. Such detailed

knowledge is lacking today and, because of the absence

of any published material on the subject, few persons
48 -

PLUMBING AND FLUID MECHANICS (con.)

1005-12-1004 (con.)

now engaged in design or code-writing activities understand

the basis on which the current drain- loading tables were

developed.

Activity Suimnary; The work to date has included the completion of the following tasks:

1) Procurement of transparent methyl methacrylate plastic

tubing of diamieters 2 and 4 inches ^ procurement of necessary tools, metal pipe, valves, tanks, and miscellaneous

supplies

.

2) Finding and assigning a laboratory mechanic to full-time

duty on the mechanical phases of the project, and an electronics engineer to part-time service on a work-order arrangement.

3) Construction and assembly of the initial test system,

including a test drain approximately 100 feet long, a

supporting structure for the test drain, a stack-flow

simulator for Introducing water into the drain, a metering and distributing system to deliver water to the simulator, a system of electr o -chemical remote control of the

flow Introduced into the drain, a system of tanks for

measuring or returning the flow to the source basin, and a

system for measuring and recording the depth of water in

the drain for any desired time. The existing high-level

constant-head tank and pump in the Hydraulics Building is

being used for this project.

4) Calibration of the flow-metering equipment and the

depth-measuring equipment.

5) A progress report has been prepared for the information of the Division Office, giving in some detail the

progress of the project during Fiscal Year 1957.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958:

T) Complete studies on flow in 4-lnch drain, to include

data on effect of following factors on capacity: (a) Surge

duration; (b) Relative rates of uniform and superimposed

surging flow occurring slmulataneously in drain; (c)

Entrance velocity of surging flow; (d) Drain slope; (e)

Solids in discharge; and (f) Drain roughness.
- 49 - PLUMBING AND FLUID MECHANICS (con.)

1005-12-1004 (con.)

2) Conduct studies on flow in 6-inch draln^, following generally the procedure under 1) above. In addition, data will

be obtained for effect on drain capacity of ratio of stack

to drain diameter and of drain diameter at point where uniform and surging flows are Joined,

3) It is expected that laboratory results will be reported

quarterly in the form of progress reports, and that an

annual report of similar form will be prepared for information purposes. It is not expected that a formal publication

can be completed in Fiscal Year 1958^ because of lack of

time and personnel, as well as the need for a careful study

of the results in comparison with the preliminary data of

1939 on which current loading tables are based.

0603-40-0623 Hydraulic Bulletin

ObjectivesTo compile and prepare master copy for publication

of bulletin listing hydraulic research in progress in the

United States and Canada.

Importance of the Project; The bulletin is a standard reference work on current hydraulic research to universities.

Government Agencies, and to Industry, It serves to keep

others informed about research being conducted in other

laboratories and thus provides a guide for the planning of

research programs and for the avoidance of needless duplication. It was initiated in 1933 and has been Issued each

year since, except for the years 1943-19'^6.
- 50 -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS

O604-II-O636 Dynamic Properties of Materials

Ob.lectlves: To provide basic Information on the mechanical

properties of materials when subjected to high rates of

loading, develop methods of testing, evaluate current

theories as related to dynamic properties and develop a more exact theory of strain energy propagation In materials.

Importance of the Project; Investigations of the behavior

of structures when subjected to rapidly applied loads

have Increased the need for more exact knowledge of the

dynamic properties of structural materials. Studies of

the fundamental mechanisms of propagation of the elastic

and 'anelastlc components of strain energy will provide

Information for deriving the elastic constants and stressstrain characteristics of materials. Accurate Information

of the dynamic properties of structural materials will

greatly reduce the 'uncertainty In current analyses of the

response of structures to dynamic loading.

Activity Summary; A pulse method for measuring stress-strain

relations under dynamic conditions In long bars was developed to the extent that preliminary tests with elastic

pulses were made on aluminum alloy and luclte rods. This

method required the use of a velocity pick-up (a coll In

a magnetic field) and two strain gage stations, A paper

which described the method. Its application and limitations was presented at the Ninth International Congress

for Applied Mechanics In Brussels, Belgium during September 1956. A method of measuring transient stress waves

In long bars through the use of a capacitive pick-up Is

being studied. It appears that each method has preferred

applications. Refinements were made In the three channels

of Instrumentation required for recording and measuring

dynamic strain waves In long bars.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958“ l) Study ways for Improving the

pulse method for determining dynamic stress-strain relations for structural materials. 2) Continue the Investigation of the capacitive pick-up for recording transient

stress waves with particular emphasis on Its use In determining dynamic stress-strain relations for metallic materials. 3) Extend the delay time before yielding data

for AISI 4l4o steel that was reported In NBS Report No.

4254. 4) Study the propagation of strain energy In long

bars by recording strain pulses as a function of time at

three sections of the bar simultaneously with the three

recording channels.
51 - PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS

O702-II-O731 Research on Properties of Textiles

Objectives

To provide basic information on the structure

and properties of textiles required for a better understanding of their behavior and for the solution of important problems in industry and the Government

Importance of the Project: Textile fibers, natural and

synthetic, exhibit unique combinations of properties that

enable them to be made into products that surpass all others

for specific household , clothing, industrial, and engineering uses. The most efficient or effective adaptation of

textiles to modern needs continues to be dependent upon more

accurate measurements and Increased understanding of the

basic properties. Currently, information is needed on the

action on textiles of atmospheric contaminants that occur

in smog, on changes in properties of textiles resulting

from exposure to high energy radiation, and on dissipation

of energy by textiles when subjected to high speed Impact.

Activity Summary: The resistance of cotton to air containing dinltrogen tetroxlde, one of the reactive constituents

of smog, was found to be the same for cotton of reduced

crystallinity as for the cotton from which it was prepared.

The results of the study of changes in properties of different kinds of textile fibers resulting from exposure to

gamma radiation in a nuclear reactor and to beta radiation

from an electron accelerator were assembled in a paper.

The properties measured were stress-strain relations, infrared absorption, and viscosity of solutions. Some preliminary measurements were made of the velocity of sonic

strains in nylon yarn. The results agreed well with those

previously obtained for velocity of strains in impact tests.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 ; Complete a paper on the effects

of low concentrations of gaseous dinltrogen tetroxlde and

of hydrogen chloride on cotton and rayon. Extend the work

to other fibers. Complete the evaluation of fibers that

have been exposed in argon to beta radiation. Complete the

development of special equipment and measure the velocity

at which sonic strains are propagated in different kinds

of filament yarns. Derive dynamic moduli for comparison

with similar moduli obtained in Impact tests.
52 -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

O707-II-O733 Research on Properties of Plastics

Objectives

:

To provide basic information on the physical and

chemical properties of plastics; in particular, properties

of graft copolymers produced by nuclear radiation, effects

of nuclear radiation on the properties of transparent polymers, and Poisson's ratio for various plastics.

Importance of the Project; The multi-billion dollar plastics

industry produces new materials and radically different

types of older materials each year. Studies of basic

mechanisms, such as those involved in the degradation of

plastics, in the changes produced by nuclear radiation,

and measurement of properties, such as Poisson's ratio,

are needed to assist in the best utilization of these materials and to extend the borders of scientific knowledge

of plastics and related materials.

Activity Summary: Investigation of the degradation of polyvinyl chloride showed that the primary decomposition product below 3000c is HCl; at 400^0 it is HCl and various

aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, A kinetic study shows

that the dehydrochlorinatlon is a first order reaction up

to about 50 percent of the HCl content. The activation

energy, about 30 kcal, is temperature dependent; this is

attributed to the melting of crystalline areas. The decomposition on exposure to heat and to ultraviolet radiant

energy is explained by a free radical mechanism. The work

on graft copolymerization by nuclear radiation showed that

the water sorption of polymers with high water sorption coefficients is reduced by grafting a less water sensitive

polymer on the surface, such as styrene on polyamides.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958° 1) Study graft copolymers produced by nuclear radiation, 2) Determine the effects of

nuclear radiation on transparent polymers, 3) Measure

Poisson's ratio of several plastics.

09OI-II-O942 Engineering Properties of Ceramics

Objectives

:

To devise methods and equipment for, and to determine the properties of, ceramics.
53 -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0901-11-0942 (con,)

Importance of the Project; Progress and advancement in the

use and development of any material have been based upon

a backlog of information on the chemical and physical

properties of that material. This backlog does not exist

for systems of ceramics^ nor is it available even for the

more common ceramic materials over extended temperature

ranges. Until such accumulations of information can be

obtained, particularly the engineering properties, the

utilization of ceramics in high- temperature applications

such as rockets. Jet aircraft, nuclear-powered units, and

others cannot be effectively accomplished. However, before such systematic studies can be launched, both the

methods and the equipment must be developed for these

physical property determinations.

Activity Summary; An apparatus for the measurement of dynamic e lastlc properties of ceramics in the range lOOO^C

to 1700°C was designed and constructed in collaboration

with project 0901-11-4416, This apparatus consists of a

furnace of special design which permits a rod- or barshaped specimen to be heated while it is simultaneously

caused to vibrate and the aplltude of its vibration is

measured. The specimen is suspended horizontally frohi

two fine wires. One of these wires is connected to a driver and is used to excite the vibrations; the other

wire is connected to a crystal pickup and is used to measure the amplitude of vibration. The furnace is heated by

a cage of 12 parallel tungsten wires spaced on a 1-lnch

circle with the specimen in the center. This heater is

surrounded with radiation shields and a water-cooled shell

with provision for the free passage of the specimen support wires through the top. This entire assembly is

placed into a bell Jar and operated in vacuo.

This apparatus, together with the auxiliary electronic

equipment for supplying the driving voltage and detecting

the pickup signal, was used to determine the resonant frequencies of flexural vibrations of ceramic specimens up to

a temperature of 1700°C, From these measurements. Young's

modulus as a function of temperature can be calculated.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: It is intended to modify the

apparatus described above to extend its temperature range

to 2000*^C and to adapt this apparatus or design another

for the measurement of internal friction at high temperatures .
- 5 ^ -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0901-11-4400 Properties of Ceramics at

Elevated Temperatures

Objectives

:

To Increase the understanding of the Interrelationship of the physical properties of ceramic oxides

and of the mechanisms and parameters which Influence

these properties and to evaluate these mechanical properties for a wide variety of ceramics as a function of

temperature

.

Importance of the Project: Ceramic materials have great

potentialities In a wide variety of applications because of their nuclear^, thermal, and structural characteristics, However, as progress In nuclear and hlghtemperature technology Is made, the demands on materials

are becoming more and more stringent. An Increased

understanding of the factors affecting material properties

Is essential for the continued Improvement and development of materials required to meet these demands. In

addition, during the course of the study, much data of

Immediate Interest to the sponsor and others Interested

In reactor design are obtained. The project emphasis

Is reviewed annually to meet both current and future needs.

Certain members of the project staff act as consultants

to the Division of Research, US AEG, particularly with

regard to the equilibrium relations of oxide systems containing UO2 as one component. Although the work Itself

Is not classified, the application of the data Is, In

general, classified.

Activity Summary; This Is a continuing program In the

sense that the basic objective, the determination of

fundamental Information on the high- temperature properties of ceramic-type materials of Interest to the sponsor,

remains the same. However, the emphasis may be changed,

either to meet the needs of the sponsor or as Indicated

by the results of previous phases of the Investigation.

During the current year, this project has proposed and

provided some verification for an expression relating

the brittle strength of polycrys talllne materials to

their porosity and grain size, A detailed report of this

phase of the work Is being prepared for publication In

the Journal of the American Ceramic Society. A second

phase of the work has studied the strength-related properties of four varieties of chemically-prepared UOp. This

has provided Information on the flexural strength of this

type of UO2 at both room and elevated temperatures and In

addition has shown the effect of minor additives on strength
PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0901-11-4400 (con.)

and porosity, A paper describing the results is currently

in preparation. The third phase of this project has been

concerned with the determination of elastic constants by

sonic methods for a wide variety of ceramic materials. It

has been shown by statistical analysis that the sonlcallydetermlned elastic properties yield a more efficient evaluation of merit of groups or lots of ceramic specimens than

do measurements of their bulk densities. The elastic properties are preferred over bulk densities in the comparison

of various fabrication methods. Some of the temperature

dependence of the elastic properties of oxide-type materials have been determined. Some cermets^ bonded-carbides,

and intermetallics have been evaluated by room- temperature

sonic tests before and after oxidation at various temperatures.

O 906 -II-O923 Chemical Properties of Cementing Materials

Ob j'ec tlves

To provide basic information leading to a better

understanding of the mechanism of hardening of cement and

r e l.ated materials, and of the reactions attending the

deterioration of these materials under various conditions

of use.

Importance of the Project: Cementing materials, including

Portland and other cements, lime, plaster, and the aggregates employed therewith, are used in great quantities in

the construction of highways, dams, and nearly all types

of buildings. Portland cement production in the United

States alone amounts to about 50 million tons a year.

Occasionally these materials fall short of standard performance in service, and considerable economic loss results

from deterioration of concrete, mortar, and plaster. In

many cases the causes of failure are not entirely understood, perhaps because of Imperfect knowledge of the reactions that normally occur during, and subsequent to,

hardening. The various cements and plasters have in common the property of reacting chemically with water, thereby

hardening and developing strength. Much is already known,

in an empirical way, about the relation between chemical

and physical properties and performance in service, but it

is Increasingly evident that more fundamental knowledge is

required.
- 56 - PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0906-11-0923 (con.)

Activity Summary: In a general program of surface and sorption studies of cements and cement compounds, the following studies are essentially completed: surface changes

taking place in cement subsequent to hydration; some

factors affecting the magnitude of the surface of hydrated cement as determined by nitrogen and water vapor

adsorption; vacuum drying characteristics of hydrated

cement. The effect of carbon dioxide on subsequent hydration of unhydrated portland cement has been studied.

The carbonatlon of hydrated cement, as influenced by water

content and age, has also been investigated. A physicochemical study of the destructive alkali-aggregate reaction in concrete was completed, as was an experimental

study of the pressure developed by such a reaction. In

a further study of the mechanism of the reaction some

preliminary observations of ionic charges on hydrated cements were described. These observations led to a similar

study of separate cement constituents, which is not yet

finished. A hypothesis was offered for the observed Increase(^activlty at the surface of certain solutions used

in the aggregate studies. An Investigation of the hydration of aluminous cements and its relation to the phase

equilibria in the system lime-alumlna-water has been completed. A study of phase equilibria in the same system

at 1°C is under way, and the general areas of stability

have been determined. The literature on the chemistry of

supersulfated cements has been reviewed, and a few thermochemical determinations have been made on cements of this

type. A thermochemical study of llme-slllca-water pastes

has been completed. Heat-of-solutlon determinations have

been made on a number of samples of calcium sulf oalumlnate

and its dehydration products, A study has been made of

a number of methods of determining uncombined calcium

hydroxide in llme-pozzolan-water pastes.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; (l) Effect of admixtures on the

hydration rates of cement compounds. (2) Effect of admixtures on the hydration rate and colloidal structure of

hydrated cement. (3) Surface properties of the hydration

products of cement compounds. (4) Infra-red studies of

hydrating cement compounds. (5) Microscopic studies of

the diffusion of sodium and calcium ions into aggregates.

(6) Studies to identify the source of the ionic charges

developed by cements during hydration. (7) Expansion

studies on a series of soda-silica, potash-silica, and

llthla-silica glasses used as aggregates in mortar bars.
57 "

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con,)

0906-11-0923 (con,)

(8) A study of the ionic charges exhibited by freshly

broken aggregate surfaces, (9) Studies of the durability of decorative aggregates in relation to the alkali aggregate reaction, (10) Study of phase equilibria in the

system lime-alumina-water at 1*^0, (ll) A study of the

calcium sulfoaluminates and other closely related compounds, (12) Studies of hydrothermal reactions of certain cement constituents, (13) Determination of heats

of formation and hydration of various materials, including hydrated calcium silicates, the alkali-bearing

constituents of portland cement, the strontium alumina tes, and magnesium oxysulfate, (l4) Continuation of

the study of activity of pozzolans.

O907-II-O917 Properties of Crystalline Solids

Objectives

To study in detail the polymorphism, mechanism of phase change, and thermal stability of inorganic crystalline solids, and the effect of structural

changes on the physical-chemical properties of the material.

Importance of the Project: The development of new methods

and improved materials is often hampered by inadequate

knowledge of the properties of the substances Involved,

When the process Includes the thermal decomposition or

melting of a crystalline solid, it is important to know

the mechanism by which this change takes place, the

crystalline form of any solid products, and the temperatures of the reactions which occur. This information,

while often available for end-members of solid-solution

series, is usually sketchy for intermediate compositions.

The clay minerals in particular are subject to variations in composition and in physical-chemical properties.

These minerals are important in ceramic industries, in

petroleum production, and in agriculture. The correlation of composition, structure, and properties of these

materials is at present under study by many investigators, and much work remains to be done before the clay

minerals are fully understood.
- 58 - PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0907-II-0917 (con.)

Activity Summary; A study of the effect of controlled

changes in the composition on the physical-chemical properties of synthetic clay minerals has been continued.

Clays have been synthesized in which Mg++ has been substituted for A 1 in controlled amounts o The change in

unit cell dimensions with composition has been studied.

The results, while not yet conclusive, appear to confirm

the results of similar studies by others on natural

mineral samples.

The thermal decomposition of natural montmorillonlte clay

saturated with various cations has been studied. For

some cations the decomposition reaction is of markedly

different character, a difference that cannot be readily

explained by the presence of the exchangeable cation external to the crystal lattice. The magnitude of this

effect varies with the length of time the clay is in contact with the saturating salt solution. The possibility

that some of the structural ions are also exchanged is

suggested. Evidence that such an exchange may take place

has been reported by others. A further study now underway, was begun to clarify this aspect of the problem.

0707-12-3893 Design Criteria for Glass Fiber

Reinforced Plastics

Objectives

:

To obtain engineering design criteria values

for glass fiber reinforced plastics through cooperation

with other laboratories.

Importance of the Project: Engineering design criteria are

badly needed for all types of plastics so that materials

may be used more efficiently in structures such as boats,

aircraft and buildings. This is the first program that

has been organized to obtain such criteria. The initial

part is concerned with glass fiber reinforced polyester

elastics made in 5 thicknesses with 5 reinforcements by

4 fabricators. Four laboratories will work together to

obtain reliable property values. Design engineers from

a naval architectural firm will set the design values on

the basis of the measured values. A large number of

properties are being measured. Some test methods will be

evaluated prior to their use.
- 59 "

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (conO

O7OT-I2-3893 (con,)

Activity Summary: This is a new project for Fiscal Year 1958 . Members of th'e staff participated in planning the statistical and testing programs.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : 1 ) Measure properties of glass

fiber reinforced polyester plastics sheets, 2 ) Assist in

making statistical analysis of test results obtained by

this and other laboratories.

0903-I2-0903 Physical Properties of Refractory Materials

Objectives: To investigate the physical properties of refractory materials for the purpose of obtaining data that will

be useful in revising existing standards, including Federal

specifications or forming the basis for the technical requirements of new specifications for such materials. To

study the physical and chemical changes which occur when

the various refractory Ingredients of pyrometrlc cones are

heat treated.

Importance of the Project: New refractory products are continually being developed by industry, improvements made in

existing ones, and new applications found for these product

In order to keep abreast of such developments, both from

the standpoint of current Federal specifications and the

Inauguration of new ones, a knowledge of the properties of

the products under service conditions is highly desirable.

There is a dearth of information on the properties of refractory castables. The principal test of refractory material for engineering purposes is the PCE (pyrometrlc cone

equivalent) which is a measure of thermal refractoriness.

The ASTM test for PCE does not specify the furnace to be

used but merely insists on neutral or oxidizing atmosphere.

It has been established that the furnace atmosphere to a high degree determines the PCE, It is essential that evalu

ation of the various commercial and laboratory furnaces be

made to assist ASTM in specifying a furnace. This study

has a theoretical background in the study of the influence

of atmosphere on liquid formation in these silicate compositions.

Activity Summary: During the past year the mineralogical

changes in refractory castables on heat treatment have been

studied and reported. In addition, differential thermal

analyses and thermal length changes were carried out, A

comparison of four furnaces:- electric, two commercial gas

fuel furnaces and a special controlled atmosphere laboratory furnace for determination of PCE, is under way.
60 -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

O906-I2-O9IO Physical Properties of Concreting Materials

Objectives s To provide basic Information leading to a better

understanding of the effects of environmental factors upon

the performance of concrete and to relate the physical

properties of concretes and their Ingredients to performance . Importance of the Project: Approximately $700 million worth

of Portland cement is used annually in the United States.

By the time this cement is Incorporated in concrete, a several-fold increase in cost is involved. Some of this

concrete fails to give satisfactory service, with a consequent large economic loss. The mechanisms responsible for

several types of disintegration are partially understood,

but needed is additional fundamental information on the

properties of concrete and concrete aggregates, as well as

additional developments of techniques to measure these

properties

.

Activity Summary

g

The automatic strain- temperature scanner

and recorder mentioned in the previous report did not

possess all of the features contracted for and required

for the tests planned. A newly engineered instrument,

with the desired features, was finally furnished by the

manufacturer as a replacement. After some modifications,

the Instrument was placed in service in January and experiments have been made with six concrete specimens in

which strain gages and thermocouples were imbedded.

A report on results obtained by subjecting 6 types of

concrete to 4 types of laboratory freezing and thawing

cycles was accepted for publication by the ASTM and will

appear in the 1956 Proceedings. Most of the data obtained from a similar investigation involving 13 laboratories and 22 laboratory-cycles, participated in and

coordinated by the NBS staff, v^ere received during the

year. Reports on two phases of this investigation, relative abilities of the various laboratory-cycles to distinguish between concretes of different durabilities,

and an attempt to correlate moisture loss during test

with durability factors obtained in different laboratories

were prepared and presented at the Highway Research Board

meeting in January. Members of the staff organized and

presided over the meeting of the HRB committee on Durability of Concrete, Physical Aspects, as well as the Offthe-Record Session sponsored by that committee.
- 6 l -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

0906- 12-0910 (con„)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1998^ Five of the Portland cements

found in a previous NBS Investigation to yield quite

durable concrete without the use of entrained air, and

five cements found to produce low-durability concrete

will be the subject of a series of tests which it is

hoped will answer the question of why these groups of

cement behave dlfferentlyo These tests will utilize

embedded strain gages to measure volume changes during

freezing. They will also Include tests on concretes

containing entrained air.

Large cylinders with embedded SR-4 strain gages and

thermocouples will be frozen and thawed under differing conditions to study the strain and temperature

distribution.

Coordination of and participation in the preparation

of the final report on the highway Research Board

Cooperative Test Program on Freezing and Thawing will

be completed,

0906-20-4473 Chemical and Physical Properties of

Dolomltlc Limes

Objectives g To provide information leading to a better

understanding of the mechanism of the dimensional

changes of dolomltlc lime hydrates.

Importance of the Projects Partially hydrated dolomltlc

lime is used in large quantities in mortars for masonry

construction. There is some question relative to the

expansion and resulting deterioration of such mortars.

An autoclave test has been proposed for determining the

potential expansion of lime, but a controversy exists

relative to the correlation of the laboratory tests and

field experience. Walls are subjected to slow carbonatlon and to different structural loads, and creep or

adjustment may take place in the mortar, which would

not occur in the high- temperature steam laboratory test.

Also, the nature of the hydration products and type of

crystal growth may be different at the two temperatures.

Before an adequate Federal specification for hydrated

lime can be prepared, it will be necessary to obtain

measurements of dimensional changes under different exposures of masonry walls constructed of limes of different expansive characteristics as determined by the autoclave test, and to obtain fundamental information on the

nature of the hydration products under various conditions.
62 -

PROPERTIES OF MATERIALS (con.)

1000-30-4801 Properties of Building Materials

Objectives g To obtain data on the properties of building materials, equipment, and structural assemblies as a means

for assessing their probable service performance and their

value for use in military structures.

i Importance of the Project; As requested by the Office of the

Chief of Engineers, the National Bureau of Standards is requested to make specific investigations on the properties

of building materials, equipment, and structural assemblies.

Examples of these are protective coatings, flashings, walls,

bricks, protected metals (protected against weathering and

fire), door locks, and concrete structures. Since parts of

assignments, and sometimes entire assignments, are accomplished best by Divisions other than the Building Technology

Division, it has been found advantageous over the years to

group all assignments under the subject project with one

project leader.

Activity Summary; Examples of the work performed under this

project during Fiscal Year 1957 are shown below?

(a) Protected Metals - Metals protected against fire and

weathering were tested for resistance to salt spray, flames,

shatter, and simulated weathering,

(b) Transparent Waterproofing Agents - Tests were initiated

to determine the water permeability and vapor barrier properties of three proprietary products used by the armed

services

.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: This is a continuing project.

The project level will depend upon the number and nature of

the tasks selected during conferences between representatives

of BYD, OCE, AF, and NBS. Such conferences will be held

throughout the year as new problems arise in the design,

operations and maintenance of buildings. Continuance of

both of the tasks outlined above is planned and new projects

are contemplated.
- 63 -

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS

1004-11-1017 Properties of Roofing, Waterproofing,

Flooring, and Coating Materials

ObjectivesTo ascertain the causes and the chemical and

physical processes of deterioration of asphalts when exposed to the weather and the relations between the chemical and physical properties of flooring, roofing and

waterproofing materials and their performance in service.

Importance of the Project;

1. Work on Asphalt; At least 90 percent of the roofing

used in this country contains asphalt. Asphalt used In

roofing is a by-product of the petroleum Industry, extremely complex in composition, with properties that vary

with the source and the method of preparation. The Bureau

has undertaken a fundamental study of the degradation of

asphalt on weathering to be able to distinguish between

good and poor weathering asphalts and to establish methods

for improving the weather resistance of asphalts.

2. Work on Flooring Materials; The compositions and constructions of flooring materials have undergone appreciable change in the past several years, notably vinyl

plastic floor coverings. Needed most are satisfactory

methods for evaluating the resistance to wear and maintenance and the dimensional stability of floor covering

materials. Comparable and up-to-date information on

different types of materials and their installation is of

interest to Government agencies, architects, builders and

consumers

Activity Summary; The effect of coating thickness on the degradation of asphalts exposed outdoors four years was determined and the results are being prepared for publication. Work on the structure of the water-soluble degradation products was continued with but little progress because it was determined that fractions separated continued

to change after separation. Some of the separation methods

tried were silicic acid, Celite, circular paper, and ascending paper chromatography, solvent extraction from aqueous

solutions, pH extraction, anion exchange, sublimation, and

solvent extraction from the solid phase. Since work on the

water-soluble degradation products was carried on entirely

by the Research Associates of the Asphalt Roofing Industry

Bureau, it was decided, in conference with the Research

Committee of the Industry Bureau, to abandon this approach

for the time being, or until some of the newer investigating

tools are available.
64 - SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

1004-11-1017 (con.)

Two papers, "Water-Soluble Degradation Products of

Asphalt"^ and "Asphalt Research at the National Bureau

of Standards," were published in the Bulletin of the

American Society for Testing Materials. "Method for

the Controlled Burning of Combustible Materials and

Analyses of the Combustion Gases," RP2715, was published in the Journal of Research. "infrared Spectra

of Chromatographlcally Fractionated Asphalts," RP 2759^

was a product of this project. Another paper has been

approved for publication and several more are in preparation.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1998«

1. Work on Asphalt; 1) Initiate a study of the degradation behavior of asphalts reconstituted from asphaltenes and maltenes from the same asphalts and from

asphalts from different sources. 2) Attempt to characterize asphaltenes by a study of dispersions of

asphaltenes in lube oils of varying paraffinic content,

3) Determine changes of component distribution in asphalts exposed in darkness to heat and thermal shock.

4) Continue study of degradation products of asphalt

components exposed to ultraviolet light, by infrared,

ultraviolet, and chemical analyses and the synthesis of

derivatives of the water-soluble degradation products.

5) Study the gaseous decomposition products of asphalt.

6) Complete editorial work on reports for publication

which describe the effects of light and water, heat

coating thickness, and mineral additives on the degradation of asphalt.

0201-20-0203 Spectrophotometry and its Application

to Colorimetry and Photometry

Objectives

;

To develop and maintain spectrophotometrlc

standards; to study Improvements in spectrophotometrlc

instruments and techniques, particularly for the standardization and specification of color; to determine the

permanence of standard samples of ceramics, glasses,

pigments, paints, papers, plastics, textiles, and other

materials of special interest in colorimetry; and to

correlate instrumentally obtained data of spectral transmittance or spectral directional reflectance of materials

converted mathematically or electronically into psychophysical terms of color specification with similar data
- 65 -

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

0201-20-0203 (conj

of the same materials either obtained visually by the

human eye, directly or with instruments, or photoelectrically by means of additive or subtractive colorimeters, color-difference measurements, or physical

photometers

Importance of the Project; Spectrophotometry is a research

and analytical tool in physics, chemistry, engineering,

and technology,, One of its most Important uses relates

to the subject of color. It is the fundamental basis of

colorimetric analysis, standardization, and specification.

It is the only fundamental means of analyzing a color for

research or other purposes. It is the only means of standardizing a color that is independent of material color

"standards", which are always of questionable permanence,

and Independent of abnormalities of color vision, existing

among even so-called normal observers, and in this sense

it is the fundamental basis for color specification. The

NBS has applied the spectrophotometer to its color research,

development, and testing, and to various other work for 50

years. It pioneered in the development of the photoelectric spectrophotometer and in its application to the colorimetry of diffusing materials. With the advent of commercial photoelectric spectrophotometers, the NBS began preparing and issuing spectrophotometric standards of various

kinds, and hundreds of these standards are now in use,

affording checks on the reliability of the various scales

of these Instruments in industrial, national, and international laboratories interested in colorimetry, photometry,

and spectrophotometry. In recent years these same services

have been extended beyond the visible spectrum into the near

ultraviolet and the near infrared spectra.

O 5OI- 2O-O 567 Development of Methods of Testing and

Analysis of Organic Coatings

(See TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS)
- 66 - SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

1004-20-4846 Research on Flooring

Objectives g To prepare classifications or ratings of floorings that are of current and potential usefulness to the

Department of Defense, wherein the classification would

indicate the suitability of a flooring for a variety of

service conditions. The first rating would of necessity

be incomplete and highly tentative because of the inadequacies if existing methods of testing and the lack of

data indicating quantltiative relationships between the

results of tests and service qualities. As improved

methods of testing are developed and correlated with service conditions, the reliability of the revised classification would be improved. There would then become

available both the means for obtaining quick evaluation

of new floorings and reliable guides for the selection of

floorings for any purpose.

Importance of the Project: A need exists for the development of Improved methods of testing and performance criteria for flooring in several categories Including those

for resistance to wear, dimensional stability, slipperiness, electrical conductivity (hospital operating room

floors), moisture penetration, underlayment materials,

effect of aging and maintenance practices, cleaning

ability, comfort value (resilience and temperature), etc.

The establishment of satisfactory performance criteria

must be preceded by the development of laboratory methods

for evaluating floors and flooring materials in measurable quantitative terms correlated with performance in

actual service. Some methods are well established; others

are reasonably well established for some materials, but

need to be perfected further; while still others need

to be developed.

The project, covering several years of work, is divided

into two parts, the first dealing entirely with conductive flooring for hospital operating rooms; the second

with flooring materials in general. The work dealing

with conductive floors has been underway since late in

Fiscal Year 1956. This phase of the research has been

carried out cooperatively with Division 1.
- 67 -

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

1004-20-4846 (con,)

Activity Summary; Work on Conductive Floors; Studies of

methods of measuring electrical resistance of floors and

the correlation of established methods with the tendency

of conductive floors to reunite electrical charges have

been made. These studies have Involved the effects of

magnitude of applied voltage, type of voltage wave, and

size, shape and weight of electrodes. The effects of

aging, humidity, surface treatments, spillage and wear

on the electrical resistance of the specimens were largely

completed. A comparative study of sllpperlness, indentation, and scratch resistance has been completed.

Work on Flooring Materials In General: A literature

search was made for specific flooring materials for use

In areas likely to be contaminated by radioactive particles. Assistance was given in the preparation of

Federal Test Method Standard No. 501 for Floor Coverings.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; Work on Conductive Floors; An

interim report on the first part of this project dealing with conductive floors will be Issued after completion

of the laboratory tests and field inspections of conductive floors. Specifications for some conductive floors

will be prepared.

Work on Flooring Materials in General; Work will be continued on the development of laboratory methods for evaluating the resistance to wear of flooring materials.

Studies will be initiated to determine the effects of

various underlayment materials and of aging and maintenance treatments on the dimensional stability of flooring

materials

,
68 -

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

0201-30-2322 Standards of Light and Color

Objective; The calibration and issuance of lamp standards

of candlepower, luminous flux, and color temperature;

spectrophotome trie standards and standards of color,

transmittance, reflectance, opacity, gloss, and luminance.

Importance of the Project; Standards of light and color are

in continuing heavy demand by Government and Industry for

the calibration O-f Instruments or working standards, or

for the testing of materials and devices for compliance

with specifications. Among the industries served are the

following; lamp and lighting fixture, paint, paper,

chemical, optical, plastics, enamel, photographic, textile, television, oil, and public utilities. In addition

to the Army, Navy, and Air Force, Government agencies

served Include Agriculture, AEG, GSA, NACA, and VA.

Activity Summary; During Fiscal 1957^ more than 600 standards and calibrations were supplied as requested.

0501-30-3240 Analysis and Testing of Paint, Varnish,

Lacquer and Related Materials

(See TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS)

0707- 30-3880 Standards for Plastics Wall Coverings

Objectives; To evaluate the properties of plastics wall

coverings and to prepare specifications for these materials.

Importance of the Project; A variety of plastic materials

is being used or proposed for use to cover walls in

hospitals. The properties of some of these products,

provided they are properly made, indicate that they

should outlast materials now used in Government hospitals, thus resulting in a saving in replacement and

maintenance. However, reliable comparative test results

must be obtained and evaluated so that a decision regarding their use can be made on a sound technical basis.

Information must also be available to write procurement

specifications on the particular materials selected.
- 69 -

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con,)

0707- 30-3880 (con.)

Activity Summary^ Sixteen samples of commercial wall coverIngs from l4 manufacturers were tested to determine tensile

strength, tear strength, coating adhesion, cold crack resistance, blocking, abrasion resistance, volatility, aging resistance, and flammability. The data will be used by the

sponsor to prepare a purchase specification.

1004-40-4847 Standards for Built-Up Roofs

Objectives g To compare and evaluate the performance of the

newer types of built-up roofs. Including roofs constructed

with asphalt purchased under the specification prepared In

Fiscal Year 1957^ also asbestos felt, glass membrane, cold

process and plastic roofs. To Initiate a long-time exposure

test to evaluate asphalt shingles, with emphasis on the Importance of applied weight per unit of area on the serviceability of asphalt shingles and the merits of various selfsealing features.

Importance of the Project

g

Increasing use of the newer types

of built-up roofs places Government specification writers

under constant pressure to accept systems that have not been

In use for periods long enough to evaluate them properly.

The enormous roof areas under agencies of the Department of

Defense make imperative studies of these systems. A recent

attempt by one agency to adopt a guide specification calling

for greater applied weight per unit of area of asphalt shingles met with opposition from a large segment of the industry. Since damage by wind is one of the principal causes of

failure of asphalt shingles, the merits of self-sealing

shingles should be evaluated.

Activity Summary; Work outlined for Fiscal Year 1957 in connection with dead-level, built-up roofs was completed.

This Included the statistical selection and actual inspection and rating of built-up roofs in the Eastern, Western

and Mid- Wes tern States; the detailed laboratory examination

of representative specimens of asphalt and coal-tar pitch;

and the preparation of a report on this work, including a

purchase specification for asphalt for use In the construction of mineral-surfaced, built-up roofs on slopes up to

one Inch per foot.
- 70

SURFACE FINISHES AND COVERINGS (con.)

1004-40-4847 (con.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1988; 1) Work on asphalts for deadlevel roofs has indicated a possibility that asphalts

with a softening point lower than any previously specified might give superior service. It is planned to study

the behavior of several asphalts of this type from different sources of crude oil, 2) Continue observations and

laboratory studies of asbestos felt,, glass membrane, cold

process, and plastic built-up roofs, 3) Set up a longtime exposure of representative asphalt shingles of different weights and including the various systems of selfsealing currently available.
TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS

050 I- 20-0567 Development of Methods of Testing and

Analysis of Organic Coatings

Objectives

To develop^ for inclusion in specifications

and standards^ and for general evaluation purposes^

methods for analyzing and testing paints, varnishes

lacquer and related products.

Importance of the Project; Adequate methods of testing

and analysis are essential to the success of a procurement program in which specifications are widely utilized, Test methods are useful, also, in assessing the

probable worth of new products and in appraising other

products for which no standards or specifications exist.

Constant improvement in methods of test must parallel

the development of new products in order to evaluate

them properly.

Activity Summary; The first edition of Federal Speclficatlon TT-P-lAl was issued in 19'4l as a result of work at

the Bureau, It was revised and enlarged in 19^-4 and

again in 19-^9 in recognition of changes and advances in

testing techniques. The first draft of a further revision was prepared in Fiscal 1955 and submitted (through

GSA) to the Government departments for comment. Cooperation with ASTM was begun many years ago in the development of test methods and was continued through Fiscal

1957.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; 1) Complete revision of Federal

Specification TT-P-lAlb, Paint, Varnish, Lacquer and

Related Materials; Methods of Inspection, Sampling and

Testing. This involves coordination of departmental

comments as they are received on first draft prepared in

Fiscal 1955- 2) Continue cooperation with Federal, ASTM,

ISO and other groups working on development of new and

improvement of existing methods of test.
TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

O707-2O-O732 Methods of Testing Plastics and Adhesives

Objectives

:

To develop methods for testing plastics and

adhesives; in particular, energy to fracture, abrasion

resistance, and simulated weathering of glass fiber

reinforced polyesters.

Importance of the Project: The increasing number of new

types of plastics and adhesives, the development of

different grades of older types, and new applications

of plastics and adhesives make it necessary to develop

new and modify present methods of test for measuring

their properties. This activity is carried out in

close collaboration with other governmental and industrial laboratories, and organizations such as the

American Society for Testing Materials and the Society

of the Plastics Industry. Standardization of methods

is advanced to the benefit of plastics and adhesives

science and technology, of Government purchasing, and

of industry. Some of the methods developed are adopted

as standards and Included in the ASTM Standard Methods

of Test, Federal Specification L-P-4o6 covering methods

for testing plastics, and Federal Standard 175 covering

methods for testing adhesives.

Activity Summary: A method for measuring the water vapor

permeability of thick plastic laminates was completed

and the first draft of the report describing the apparatus, procedure, and typical' test results prepared.

The first draft of a method that has been used for

years in this laboratory for the determination of the

Blerbaum scratch hardness of plastics, was prepared and

submitted to ASTM Committee D-20 on Plastics; a procedure

for coating transparent plastics with vacuum deposited

thin metal films to improve the measurement of the width

of the scratch is part of this proposed method. A report of the results of a collaborative test program on

the effect of rate of straining on the tensile properties

of plastics was prepared and submitted to ASTM Committee

D-20 on Plastics. A test program on tjie effect of rate

of loading on the tensile-shear properties of adhesives

was completed, A report on the mechanical and electrical

properties of a cotton fabric reinforced laminate was

submitted to ASTM Committee D-9 on Electrical Insulating

Materials as part of a collaborative test program. The

tes t program to extend the present ASTM method for determining the effects of laboratory aging tests of adhesion for wood to other materials was completed.
73 "

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con,)

0707- 20-0732 (oon.)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938- 1) Develop a method for determining the aging (simulated weathering) of glass

fiber reinforced polyester plastics. 2) Evaluate the

PEI Abrasion Tester for plastics. 3) Develop a method

for measuring the energy to fracture plastics on tension

loading, 4) Conduct cooperative test programs with other

governmental agencies and scientific and technical societies such as the American Society for Testing Materials, Society of the Plastics Industry, and Society

of Plastics Engineers.

1003-20-4836 Standard Test Procedure for Soiling

Acoustic Tile

Objectives

To establish a standard procedure for evaluating the soiling of acoustic tile by contaminated air

by the mechanisms of impingement, filtration, and impingement and thermal precipitation combined and to

measure the effect of painting procedures on the sound

absorption of these tile.

Importance of the Project; Huge sums of money are spent

each year for cleaning, reconditioning, and replacing

interior surfacing materials in public buildings as a result of contaminants in the air in the buildings,

part of which are brought in through the ventilation

or air conditioning ducts. Little study has been given

to basic mechanisms by which particles of dust become

attached to surfaces, and little is known about the

methods for preventing or inhibiting such deposition.

Likewise, the control of dust brought in through ventilating and air conditioning ducts is variable, to say

the least, because of disagreements on methods and requirements for air filters and the lack of a standard

test dust for evaluating their effectiveness. Potentially great savings could be realized if better standards were available for air filters and if the principles

of dust deposition in enclosed spaces were better understood.

Activity Summary; This subject was under investigation in

Fiscal Year 1956 under the sponsorship of the Public

Buildings Service and, through them, the Acoustical

Materials Association, Two pieces of test equipment were

constructed; one to correlate air flow or filtration

through a specimen of wall material, and the pressure difference

between its two sides, and the other consisting of a means
_ 74 -

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

1003-20-4836 (con.)

for exposing samples of wall materials, eight at a time,

to artificially contaminated air. Some test results on

about a dozen specimens of acoustical tile were obtained

with oil flame smoke, Cottrell ash, tobacco smoke, and

commercial lampblack. The effects of thermal deposition,

impingement, and dirtying by filtration of air through

the specimens were demonstrated. Due to a lack of funds,

this project was discontinued at the end of Fiscal Year

1956, but has been approved for Fiscal Year 1958.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958» The following tasks are envisioned as necessary steps in developing a standard test

procedure: 1) Modify soiling enclosure to provide octagonal shape for interior space, and insulate the walls.

2) Rebuild the dust injector and blower system to permit

standardization of air flow rate and dust loading of the

air. 3) Select or develop a standard air contaminant.

4) Select or determine standard air delivery rates and

velocities. 5) Determine reproducibility of results,

resolution of the methods, and length of exposure. 6)

Prove method by evaluating soiling characteristics of

about 24 types of commercial acoustic tile exposed to the

mechanisms of Impingement, impingement and thermal precipitation, and filtration. 7) Study the effect of a number

of painting procedures on the sound absorption of commercial acoustic tile and the degradation of absorption caused

by repetitive painting of the tile. Work done under this

transferred fund project should be completed in from six

to eight months at which time the study will be continued

under Expenses Project No. 1003-12-1016, Air Cleanliness

in Buildings.

020I-3O-2320 Qualification, Inspection, and Testing

of Lamps for the Government

Objectives; To conduct qualification tests of manufacturers

currently supplying incandescent, fluorescent, and photographic flash lamps to the Government by inspecting and

life-testing the lamps supplied in order to determine compliance with applicable Federal specifications; to conduct

qualification tests of prospective bidders not currently

supplying lamps to the Government; to formulate and revise

Federal Specifications for lamps.
- ^

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con,)

0201-30-2320 (con,)

Importance of the Project; In accordance with the procedure followed for over 40 years the contract between

the Government (Federal Supply Service) and the suppliers of lamps to the Government specifies that the lamps

supplied shall comply with the applicable specifications,

and that the necessary inspection and testing to determine compliance with the specifications be performed by

the National Bureau of Standards. Since 1935 contracts

to supply lamps to the Government have been awarded only

to suppliers who have passed qualification tests conducted at the National Bureau of Standards in accordance

with the applicable specifications. This procedure has

been found to be effective in obtaining for the Government delivery of specification-quality lamps with a

minimum of delays resulting from rejections for failure

of lamps to comply with specification requirements. In

addition, it is essential that the specifications themselves be reviewed and revised to keep them current.

0501-30-3240 Analysis and Testing of Paint, Varnish,

Lacquer and Related Materials

ObjectivesTo test and analyze paints, varnishes, lacquers, enamels, and Ingredient raw materials for compliance with specifications. Also, to examine and

evaluate organic coating materials for which no specifications exist; and to conduct special tests and investigations for regulatory agencies.

Importance of the Project; Testing of the delivered product to determine compliance with established requirements is the final essential step in a specification

procurement program. Most Government paint purchases

are made in such a manner. Tests are required also as

evidence for Government agencies^ that have regulatory

functions and for other special purposes.

O603-3O-O613 Testing Wind Equipment

Objectives

To calibrate wind-measuring equipment to develop test methods.
TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

0603-30-0613 (con.)

Importance of the Project; Wind-measuring instruments are

widely used by the weather services and in the heating

and ventilating field. Private users and manufacturers

have need for calibrated instruments either for direct

use or for checking the accuracy of other instruments.

Instruments in the field are periodically returned for

recalibration. Other instruments are checked for conformance to Government specifications. Manufacturers

use calibrated equipment in the development of new instruments and as standards for manufacturing.

06o 4-30-362I Miscellaneous Mechanical

Testing and Calibration

Objectives

:

To conduct mechanical tests and calibrations

on a reimbursable basis as requested by various Government agencies and the public.

Importance of the Project: The NBS tests specimens of

engineering materials and other items for compliance

with the requirements of purchase specifications. Tests

are also made for private organizations when facilities

and personnel are not available elsewhere. The NBS provides the only service available for the accurate calibration of elastic devices used for calibrating testing

machines. Devices ranging in capacity from a few hundred

pounds to several million pounds are calibrated by dead

weights for loads not exceeding 111,000 lb and by means

of other calibrated devices for loads exceeding 111,000

lb. The accuracies of the testing machines used by the

Government and by producers and consumers are dependent

on periodic calibrations with devices calibrated at the

NBS. The accuracies of calibration cells used by manufacturers of aircraft weighing devices and load cells for

measuring the thrust of jet engines and for Industrial

weighing applications are also dependent on periodic

calibration at the NBS. Means for determining the performance of vibration testing equipment in Government and

private laboratories are provided by the calibration at

the NBS of vibration pickups on vibration standards which

have been calibrated by the reciprocity method.
77 - TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

0604-30-3621 (con.)

Activity Summary; Since the Initiation of this project 759

devices were received from private organizations for calibration. These Included dyharTrometers, load cells and

transducers, aircraft weighing kits, proving rings, Amsler

boxes, vlbrat ion pickups, a vibration calibrator and other

types of devices. Calibrations of 633 devices were completed under this project. Mechanical tests were made on

243 specimens of materials submitted by the Engineer

Department, Division of Materials, District of Columbia.

Approximately 64 Items were tested for other Government

agencies. These Items Included proving rings, load cells,

bolts, .wire, wire rope, hand trucks, wrenches, chairs,

wire rope connectors, vibration pickups, hardness test

blocks, window cleaner’s safety anchors, and drill bits.

0707-30-3879 Standardization of Test Methods and

Specifications for Adhesives, Elastomers,

Sealants, and Molded Articles

Objectives

To standardize the methods of tests and specifications for various adhesives, elastomers, sealants,

and molded articles now used by the Navy Bureau of Aeronautics,

Importance of the Project; The Navy Bureau of Aeronautics

now uses a large number of adhesives, elastomers, sealants, and molded articles In the construction and maintenance of aircraft. The specifications for these products need revision and consolidation. This project

consists of two parts. In the first part the methods of

test will be Investigated and standardized. It may be

necessary to develop some new methods. Once this Is

accomplished, the second step consisting of the revision

of and reduction In the number of current specifications

for these products can be undertaken on a sound basis.

Activity Summary; The evaluation of several aircraft sealants Is underway. A large number of properties and

several variables In proposed test methods are being

studied. The effects of the sealants on the crazing of

transparent plastics were Investigated, This Is a cooperative project with the Rubber Section ( 7 * 1 )

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 ; l) Complete the work on alrcraft sealants, 2") Investigate other Items as requested

by the sponsor, 3 ) Develop standard methods of test.
" 78 -

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

0900-30-4447 Acceptance Testing of Ceramic Materials

Objectives

;

To test ceramic materials for compliance with

the technical requirements of Federal or Departmental

Specifications

.

Importance of the Proj'ect: The Federal Government is a

large purchaser of ceramic materials. Since a very

substantial cost is involved in the erection of structures and in other fabrication from these materials,

acceptance testing assumes a major importance in a number of cases. This is particularly true in the use of

refractories for boilers. Incinerators, and similar installations; therefore most of the testing work under

this project is concerned with refractory materials.

Activity Summary: The material submitted for acceptance

testing required the assignment of one employee for

approximately one- third man-year to this project. A

total of 150 tests were performed on 22 samples.

0906- 30-4415 Cement Reference Laboratory

Objectives

:

To standardize and improve the testing of portland cement in laboratories throughout the country, and

to assist in the refinement of cement testing methods.

Importance of the Project; The NBS carries on a large cement testing program, and in connection therewith, does

work on the development and refinement of test methods.

The tests are somewhat empirical in nature and, for this

reason, comparable test results between laboratories are

obtainable only through standardization of equipment and

techniques. The work of this project is an important

contribution in this respect. Also, the data resulting

from these activities is used extensively by technical

groups concerned with the development of test equipment

and procedures.

Activity Summary ; As part of its Eleventh Inspection Tour

among cement testing laboratories of the United States,

the Cement Reference Laboratory Inspected cement testing

equipment and test procedures in 71 laboratories, and 132

written confirmatory reports covering these inspections

were prepared and distributed. Two special investigations

undertaken led to the development of two new field inspection procedures which have increased the scope of many

inspections. In a continuation of the Comparative Test

Program, 224 chemical and 268 physical test samples of cement were sent out, and more than 1000 reports covering
TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (conj

0906-30-4415 (conj

the results of these tests were prepared and distributed,,

A total of 78 samples of the standard mixture used in

checking of 10 -lnch flow tables were mailed^ and a new

supply of the powdered silica for this mixture was groundo

A narrative history covering the first 25 years of CRL

operation was preparedo Vigorous participation in the

activities of technical committees was continued ^ with

all of the technical secretarial work of ASTM Committee

C -1 on Cement being performed.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 , It is anticipated that the

rate of inspection of laboratories will be essentially as

outlined above. The importance of the Comparative Test

Program is increasing rapidly, and the potential of this

service will be further developed. Some attention will be

given to the use of photographic techniques for instruction in correct testing procedures. Plans will be formulated for the extension of the inspection service to cover

concrete testing laboratories,

0906-30-4433 Acaeptance Testing, Cement

Objectives

To make acceptance tests on portland cement

used by the various Federal agencies throughout the

United States.

Importance of the Project; Most of the projects for which

cement is tested are of a permanent nature (large dams,

air fields, etc,), and the cement-acceptance program prevents difficulties with the concrete resulting from the

use of sub-standard cement.

Activity Summary; This project has been in continuous operation for over 40 years. Currently, sa,mples representing approximately 11 million barrels of cement per year

are being tested in laboratories in San Francisco, California; Seattle, Washington; Denver, Colorado; Allentown,

Pennsylvania; and Washington, D, C, A mobile cement testing laboratory has been placed in operation at Duluth,

Minnesota for the construction season, A statistical

testing plan was put into effect which is expected to reduce the cost of testing to some extent. Measurements

have been continued on the behavior of cements and concrete under prolonged outdoor exposure. Studies have been

made to develop transverse strength tests and a nondestructive sonic test for cements.
80 -

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

0906-30-4433 (con.

)

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : It is expected that the work in

this project will be at a slightly higher volume.

The volume of testing is somewhat seasonal. During slack

periods, work will also be accomplished on development of

test methods, both physical and chemical, and on cooperative test programs with other laboratories.

0906-30-4444 Miscellaneous Testing

Objectives

;

To make tests, both acceptance and of other types

on a variety of materials, such as hardened and fresh concrete, concrete aggregates, soils (engineering properties),

bituminous aggregates, filter trickling media, floor harden

ers, integral concrete admixtures, and spelters.

Importance of the Project: The information obtained from this

project enables the various Federal agencies to control the

quality of concrete and other materials going into Federal

construction in the D.C. area. It furnishes Information on

soils required in engineering designs. It contributes to

the determination of the causes of failure in performance

of unsatisfactory concretes.

Activity Summary: This is a continuing project, with the major portion of the work being accomplished in the Washing D. C. laboratory, although a few tests each year are

made in Seattle and San Francisco cement- testing laboratories.

1000 - 30-4800 Miscellaneous Testing

Objectives

;

To perform such tests on building materials,

equipment, or structures, as requested by Federal agencies

in accordance with appropriate fee schedules.

Importance of the Project; This is a continuing project in

which the NBS carries out miscellaneous testing. Examples

Include: the testing of elevators and elevator parts, air

filters, building stones, brick, masonry units, fire extinguishers, roofing slate, insulating materials, heating

units, air conditioning units, and the testing of building

constructions for strength, water permeability, fire resistance and heat transmission.
8l -

TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con,)

1000-30-4800 (con.)

Activity Summary; Examples of the work performed under this

project during Fiscal Year 1957 are shown below:

A simple calorimeter was developed for measuring the capacity of window air conditioning units in the size range

up to 1 hp. This calorimeter provides a means for a rapid check of capacity for the purpose of comparison with

specification requirements. A study was made which showed

that a sunshleld on the exterior portion of a window air

conditioner may have no measurable effect on its refrigerating capacity under average conditions and that the refrigeration capacity of such a unit may be reduced by no

more than 1 or 2 percent under the most adverse conditions

by solar radiation on the condenser section.

Limited studies were made of test methods for measuring the

heat loss of refrigerated trailers by the reverse heat loss

method. These tests produced data which Will be useful in

selecting control devices for the internal heat loads in

the study of standardization of test methods for refrigerated enclosures that will be undertaken next year.

Assistance was given in a study of the causes of frost, ice,

and water accumulation during winters in the interiors of

walls, floors, and ceilings of buildings located at Thule

and Sondrestrom Air Force Bases in Greenland. A field trip

to the sites was made to inspect the buildings and determine

factors contributing to the problem. Laboratory measurements

of the water-vapor permeance of component materials taken

from the buildings and from stock were completed to assist

in evaluating the problem, A summary report containing the

findings and conclusions of the investigating team was completed, Recommendations for remedial action were prepared

for each of the two types of buildings investigated.

Fire resistance tests were performed on two cellular steel

floor ceiling constructions. These specimens involved the

use of direct sprayed mineral insulating- material for protection of the steel. The constructions are representative of one of the types considered as useful for future

military buildings where flexibility of wiring facilities

is of prime importance.

At the request of the Architect of the Capitol, a study was

made of the 150-year old exterior sandstone in the original

portion of the United States Capitol, Nine samples, cored

from the walls of the building were tested for such properties as compressive and flexural strength, hardness,

toughness, specific gravity, porosity, and elasticity.
TESTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS (con.)

1000-30-4800 (con.)

Petrographic and chemical analyses were also made on

several of the samples. The effect of 34 coats of paint

applied to the "Aquia Creek" sandstone over the years

was evaluated in relation to the durability of the stone,

especially for future use.
- 83 »

MISCELLANEOUS

0804-ll-08l5 Crystal Structure and Corrosion

ObjectivesTo study the fundamental nature of the corrosion

process and its relation to crystal and atomic structures

of metals.

Importance of the Project; Corrosion is a very costly process, -the loss of metal parts, products and labor involved in replacement totaling many billions of dollars

annually. By far, the most of the research in the field

is empirical, l.e., directed toward finding the comparative

corrodibilities of commercially usable metals and alloys

and -devising means of mitigation. The basic mechanism by

which metals corrode is not at all understood, and little

fundamental work is being done to determine what physical

and chemical processes and conditions are involved and

what part the atomic and crystal structure of the metal

plays in the Initial formation of corrosion pits and their

extension to general corrosion.

Activity Summary

During the past year a paper "influence of

Crystal Orientation on the Corrosion Rate of Aluminum in

Acid and Alkalies" was published. Work on the difference

in solution rates of monocrystalline aluminum in NaOH and

KOH was continued. An extensive study of the atomic structure of thin layers of copper deposited on monocrystalline

copper and their epitaxial relationships with the underlying

base crystal was made as a part of the unaerstanding of the

fundamental nature of the corrosion of copper.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; The studies referred to above on

thin layers of copper deposited on copper are virtually

complete and a paper is in process of preparation. Studies

of the differences in solution rate and nature of attack

on aluminum in NaOH and KOH solutions will be continued.

08o 4-11-0836 Fundamental Corrosion Reactions at

Metal Surfaces

Objectives

To investigate the basic reactions that Influence

the corrosion of metals.

Importance of the Project; By filling in some of the large

gaps that exist in the fundamental understanding of the

corrosion process, the staggering cost of corrosion can

probably be reduced. Little is now known of the allimportant films or adsorbed layers that form on metal when

it is placed in contact with water and the part which these

films play in controlling the passage of metal cations into
84 -

MISCELLANEOUS

0804-11-0836 (con.)

solution. Because of this lack of basic information and

because of the fact that a great deal of the corrosion

encountered in practice is aqueous or aqueous solution

corrosion, a fundamental study is being made of the

system metal-water-oxygen.

Activity Summary: A note to the Editor has been submitted

to the Journal of Applied Physics for publication.

Studies made on the system copper (single crystal) - wateroxygen have revealed the Importance of illumination by

white light, the presence of COg, and the crystallographic

orientation on the oxidation process in the system under

investigation. A technique for measuring film thickness

by electrolytic reduction has been developed and is in use.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: A paper will be prepared for presentation at tne meeting of the Corrosion Division, Electrochemical Society this Fall. The development of a method

for measuring the thickness of a continuously growing film

by measuring the change in reflectivity of an oxidizing

polished surface will be completed early this year and will

be used together with optical polarization techniques for

making quantitative kinetic studies of oxide formation.

The study of the nature and structure of oxide films formed

on copper single crystals in water will be continued and

extended to include iron single crystals. As a preliminary

to the study of the Influence of dislocations, lattice imperfections, etc. on corrosion, studies of more perfect

crystals using iron and copper whiskers will be initiated.

Work on this project is being carried out concurrently with

Project 0804-ll-4l4l.

0901 11 4468 Mechanism of Plasticity 0901-11-0947

Ob j'ec tlves

;

To obtain a scientific understanding of the

physical and chemical properties of matter determining

plastic behavior in clay-water systems. Involved is a

fundamental explanation of plasticity and a method for its

measurement

.
- 85 - MISCELLANEOUS (con,)

0901 - 11-4468 ) 0901-11-0947 )

Importance of the Project; Clays, partially because of their

pla'fetlc nature, are the most widely used of all raw materials in the making of ceramic objects (approximately

two billion dollars' worth of ceramic products are produced annually In this country). The so-called "plastic

materials" are distinctly different in their behavior from

viscous substances, and a scientific understanding of what

plastic behavior is, and of the properties of matter determining, controlling, and measuring it, has not been

developed. Mechanization of the ceramic industry is dependent upon the "workability" of blay, and can be fully

realized only through an adequate understanding of "plafetlc"

behavior. Furthermore, this dependence will become more

acute, and scientific knowledge a virtual necessity, as the

natural resources of the most desirable clays are exhausted;

and scientific information will be required to so treat

lower-quality clays that their plasticity will supply the

desired workability.

Activity Summary; This is a continuing project. Detailed

studies of the mineralogical, chemical and physical properties of several clays have been completed. On the basis

of the results obtained, a single clay has been chosen and

is being carefully fractionated into monodisperse fractions.

The Rheological properties (viscous behavior of dilute

clay-water suspensions and deformation behavior of claywater "pastes") of these fractions will be determined.

Apparatus for the determination of these properties is being

designed.

An evaluation of purification methods; l,e., electrodialysis

and ion-exchange resins, has indicated that the latter is

to be preferred. This technique will be used in converting

fractionated samples to the homolonlc condition prior to

testing.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968; The fractionation of clay will

be continued until sizeable quantities of a wide range of

particle- size fra^ctions have been accumulated. These

samples will be converted to a homolonlc condition with the

aid of ion-exchange resins.

The study of the viscous and "plastic" behavior of the fractionated clay will be undertaken with special emphasis on the

effect of systematic variations in particle size and surface

area. Later, tests may be designed to study the effect of

various types of exchangeable ions and dispersion media.
86 - MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

1001-12-4817 Masonry Joint Sealers

Objectives

:

To obtain basic laboratory and exposure data on

the properties of synthetic rubber-based calking compounds

(joint sealers) for use in concrete and stone masonry; to

develop test methods and to prepare specifications.

Importance of the Project; For the past ten years polysulfide synthetic rubber-based sealing compounds have been

used successfully by the aircraft industry for integralwing fuel tank sealing. Similar compounds may prove to be

useful in masonry structures, around windows, between

panels in curtain wall and pre-cast concrete construction,

for sealing flashing and expansion joints, and for filling

any joint where structural movement is expected and watertightness is required. In recent years, polysulfide synthetic rubber based calkings have been used to some extent

by private industry in concrete and curtain wall structures,

and have been used to a very limited extent by some Governmental agencies.

Since failures of conventional oil and resln^based calkings

as used in masonry have become common and extremely costly

to the Government, including the defense agencies, it would

appear advantageous for the NBS to study the properties of

the polysulfide rubber-based calkings for use in concrete,

stone and brick masonry; and possibly also in concrete runways, and structures in the Arctic regions. Other rubberbased compounds of silicones and neoprene bases might be

Included in the study.

Activity Summary; Not applicable.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1968 ; 1 ) Conduct a survey of masonry

rubber joint sealers and obtain samples of the various

grades from the producers; 2 ) Order special equipment

needed to make certain tests such as a joint pulling machine, low temperature equipment, etc.; 3) Fabricate specimens of cast stone, normal concrete, limestone, brick,

etc., for use as base material in testing the sealers;

4) Conduct adhesion, shrinkage, slump, tensile strength,

hardness and other tests at normal, low and elevated

temperatures

.
87

MISCELLANEOUS (con„)

0410-20-3135 Radiation Shielding Problems

Ob jectiv-es

To investigate various radiation shielding

problems of particular interest to the Atomic Energy

Commi'ssion,

Importance of the Project; Scattered radiation may produce

radiation hazards for personnel or it may give unwaht-ed

low-energy components in radiation-instrument calibration

work. In both it is necessary to evaluate the amount of

radiation scattered under various conditions. In case

the scattered radiation produces radiation hazards,

attenuation curves must be available for most economical

shielding of personnel.

Activity Summary;

1, Broad-beam attenuation curves for the complex gammaray spectrum of Irl92 were obtained and a paper prepared

for publication.

2, The dose to the inner walls of therapy rooms was determined at a number of medical installations.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958:

1, Measure such attenuations as are required. Attenuation of thullum-170 gamma rays is planned,

2. Analyze the results of dose- to- the-wall measurements

in medical radiation rooms and prepare a publication on

the results.

0604-20“06l4 Developments of Techniques for Static

and Dynamic Load Measurements

ObjectivesTo evaluate the performance of testing machines,

elastic calibration devices for the calibration of testing machines, and strain measuring equipment under conditions simulating the actual conditions under which such

equipment is used.

Importance of the Project; The importance of this project is

attested to by the regular use of the calibration service

available under Project No. 0604-30-3621 by other government, college and industrial laboratories. There is a continuing need for improved accuracy and for extension of

techniques to provide results obtained under conditions

more nearly simulating service conditions with respect to
88 - MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

0604-20-06i 4 (con.

)

such factors as rate of loading, temperature, etc. The

efficient use of structural materials requires an accurate

detailed knowledge of their strengths under various conditions. This is especially true for aircraft and missile

purposes where the highest possible strength-weight ratio

is required. Tests of materials and structures are therefore made in testing machines having capacities ranging

from a few pounds to several million pounds. These testing machines must be kept in proper operating condition.

To this end a means of calibrating all machines over their

entire range is badly needed. Rapid, accurate means of

foree measurement are also needed to measure the thrust of

jet and rocket engines, to weigh highway and rail vehicles

in motion and to weigh a large variety of industrial materials and products not only under static conditions but

also in motion. Military and commercial requirements for

incr-eased range and accuracy of force measurements are con

stantly increasing. There is an urgent need for improved

methods for calibrating elastic load-measuring devices at

both low and high loads. Present dead-weight facilities

should be extended to make possible the accurate calibration of devices above 111,000 lb. Hardness testing has

an Important part in modern production methods as a nondestructive control method which measures a combination of

desirable engineering properties of materials. Development of microhardness test equipment during the past ten

or twelve years has opened many new possibilities for research and has created problems of standardization of the

Instruments. There is need for improved methods for the

calibration of the different types of hardness testing machines. There is also need for the development of techniques for measuring strain and deformation of specimens

at low and elevated temperatures and for calibrating such

equipment under conditions which closely simulate conditions of laboratory and field use. Another urgent need is

for the development of suitable techniques for the evaluation of structural components such as riveted or bolted

joints under alternating loads at elevated temperatures.
0604-20-06l4 (con,)

Activity Summary; This Is a continuing project broadened to

Include a -part of the activities previously carried on

under Project No, 0604-30“06l6, The study of dynamometers

of l^OOO^OOO lb and 3^000^000 lb capacity was continued to

observe their stability with time and use and to provide

standards for the calibration of large capacity devices

and thrust measuring systems under Project Numbers 06o4-30-

0616 and 06o 4“30“3621 , Further work on the three commercial load cells of 100,000 lb capacity each and a totalizing Indicator Intended for usd In calibrating devices from

III 5 OOO lb to 30O 5 OOO lb showed that the errors of the

calibration test loads measured with the load cells were

substantially greater than the errors of proving rings

used for the same purpose. It was concluded that for loads

up to at least 500^,000 Ib^ calibration by dead weights would

be preferable to any other method In accuracy and would be

far less time consuming. Study of the feasibility of constructing a larger dead-weight machine led to the conclusion

that construction of a machine of at least 500^000 lb capacity would be practicable.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938, l) Evaluate the performance of

testing machines and determine their errors due to rate of

loading; 2) Study methods for calibrating hardness testing

machines; 3) Evaluate the performance of strain measuring

equipment at both low and elevated temperatures; 4) Evaluate

and calibrate proving rings and. dynamometers of all capacities and Initiate the preparation of a general specification for such equipment; 5) Study the feasibility of

constructing a machine for testing structural components

under alternating loads at elevated temperatures.

060 4- 20 -3 601 Investigation o^* a Prestressed

Cellular I)rydoc'k

Objectives

To provide experimental data on the mechanical

performance of prestressed aluminum slabs of cellular

construction^ to assist with the development of gasketing

systems and the mechanical components required for joining and assembling^ and to make me thods-of -assembly studies.

Importance of the Project; Seaplane operations of the Navy

require considerable mobility of the bases of operations,

A portable prefabricated drydock which can be assembled

with a minimum of skills and tools would increase the mobility of seaplane operations.
- 90

MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

0604- 20-3601 (con.)

Activity Summary: Tests made to determine the force required

to punch through the center element of twelve 9 -rnodule

segments with different preloads in the tension rods and

with various Joint sealants on the edges of the modules

were completed. The results of these punching shear tests

were reported in NBS Report No. 4992. Punching shear tests

were made on three 36-module segments with different preloads in the tension rods. Also, uniform load tests were

made on three 36-module segments with various materials in

the Joints between modules. A final report designated as

NBS Report No. 5346, gives the results of the tests of the

36 module segments.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; Completed.

1000-20-4805 Design and Construction of Experimental

Air "Zero Locators ~

Objective

;

To design and construct devices for recording the

location of a nuclear explosion and to make recommendations

for the mass production of units for installation in potential target areas.

Importance of the Project: In order that FCDA personnel may

direct rescue and survival operations effectively after a

nuclear explosion delivered by an enemy, it is of utmost

Importance to know the location of the explosion at the

earliest moment. The location of an explosion provides information as to the areas subjected to the greatest forces

and amounts of radiant energy and for determining the areas

where the fallout might be the least.

The assistance of the NBS was requested because its personnel had made previous studies of the effects of thermal

radiation on materials.

Activity Summary: The project was approved about February 1,

1957 and 16 units were constructed and delivered to the

FCDA by about May 1, 1957-

Each unit was provided with two different types of screen

material and with three different sizes of aperture. No

lenses were used.
- 91 ”

MISCELLANEOUS (coHo)

1000-20-1+805 (con.)

The screen materials were paper selected from current stock

at the Government Printing Office. Both screen materials

were hacked by aluminum plates. The direction of a nuclear

explosion within the target area will be determined from

the position of the aperture and the location of a scorched

or charred area on the screens.

The screens were so graduated that the azimuth and altitude

angles can be read directly in degrees.

Each unit was so constructed that it could be used in four

different tests.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : After completion of the work

originally planned and outlined in the previous section,

the KBS was requested to furnish the services of technical

personnel to supervise and inspect the installation and

testing of the experimental air zero locators. This is in

progress and is expected to terminate about August 1957 » According to present plans the project will be terminated

upon submission of a final report summarizing the results

of the tests and including recommendations for a production

unit a

IOO3-2O-I4.838 Air Filter Systems for Army Aircraft

Ob je ctive s : , To study the airborne dust distribution around the

rotor of an operating helicopter with respect to concentration and particle size, and to develop and construct models

of air cleaners that will be more effective than presentlyused devices in protecting airplane and helicopter engines

from excessive wear in dusty atmospheres.

Importance of the Project ; Wear of aviation engines, both airplanes and helicopters, has caused considerable expense and

inconvenience in the past. Army aircraft, and especially

helicopters, necessarily operate in dusty atmospheres much

of the time, and available evidence indicates that present

air cleaners for combustion air are inadequate to protect

them from excessive wear. Reports of engine failure due to

this cause in less than 100 hours are common. Experiments

on this subject have been sporadically conducted by various

agencies of the United States Government, as well as the

governments of other nations. Information is lacking on

the dust concentration and particle sizes that exist at

various levels above the ground in the vicinity of an opera t ing helicopter nor have adequate sampling methods been

developed to secure representative samples for analysis.
92 -

MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

1003-20-4838 (con.)

Air filters currently used in the induction air systems of

helicopters are too low in efficiency and are inadequate

in dust-holding capacity. This work has been requested by

the Office of the Chief of Transportation of the Department of the Army. It is an extension of the work done on

air cleaners for tank engines during World War II and the

continuing work on air-cleaning devices for heating and

air conditioning systems for buildings.

Activity Summary: This project was started in December 1953-

During fiscal 1957? studies were made of oil bath air

cleaners and dry cloth media as air filters. The absolute

filter described in U.S. Army Specification No. 90.21 was

compared with a glass fiber paper developed by NBS, with

the result that the latter was shown to remove more of

the fine particles of dust than the former. Tests were

made of nine knitted and woven fabrics of cotton, orlon,

and dacron fibers. Four of these were commercial fabrics

and five were made especially for these tests by the North

Carolina School of Textiles. Some of these fabrics were

promising and development of a multi-layer air cleaner

using a dry cloth medium was undertaken. Modifications

were also made of a commercial oil bath cleaner that increased its efficiency as it accumulated a dust load,

increased its dust-holding capacity, and reduced its

pressure drop. This modified air filter also shows promise for small aircraft engines.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958: This project will be terminated

in I'lscal 195b <> Some Turther development work will be

completed on the multi-layer dry cloth filter, which appeared to be the most promising type for this particular

military application. A flight model of the dry cloth

air cleaner is to be constructed and furnished for flight

tests and the results of the flight tests are to be evaluated. A report of the studies of various types of air

cleaners and filter media will be prepared for publication.

OIO3-3O-203I Lightning Protection

Ob je ctive

s

: To advise engineers of the Civil Aeronautic

Administration on special lightning protection problems

at airport and airway beacon installations and to test

lightning arresters for the characteristics needed when

they are used in such locations.
" 93 - MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

0103-30-2031 (con.)

Importance of the Project: The failure of airport or beacon

power during inclement weather may result in the wrecking

of aircraft and consequent loss of life. Thus electric

power distribution and communication circuits and faclll“

ties need to be of sound design to minimize possible

lightning damage and the lightning arrester equipment must

match the needs of differing Installations if outages are

to be avoided.

Activity Summary : The lightning project has been relatively

inactive because there have been no unexplained failures

and consequent need for corrective measures. However j, help was given CAA on a pulsed beacon project.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 t Installations will be examined

for possible sources of trouble. Characteristics of

selected lightning arresters will be studied by laboratory tests for suitability of specific applications.

O2OI-3O-O207 Standards of Light and Color

Objective ; The calibration and issuance to industry of lamp

standards of candlepower, luminous flux, and color temperature; spectrophotometric standards and standards of

color, transmittance, reflectance, opacity, gloss, and

luminance

Importance of the Project ; Standards of light and color

are in continuing heavy demand by industry for the calibration of instruments or working standards, or for the

testing of materials and devices for compliance with

specifications

Activity Summary : Early in Fiscal 19^7 this project was

terminated arid the work transferred to Project 2322 . Before the termination of the project, 80 standards and

calibrations were supplied as requested.

O2OI-3O-O208 Specifications for Lamps and Colors

Objectives: Formulation and revision of Federal Speclflcat ions for lamps, auxiliary equipment, and colors, and

cooperation with ASA in allied fields in order to attain

coordination, particular stress being placed upon the

development of improved qualification tests for lamps,

on insuring interchangeability of lamps, and on the

assignment of uniform designations to lamps.
- 94 - MISCELLAKEOnS (con,)

0201-30-0208 (con.)

Importance of the Project : The qualification testing of lamps

under Project 43^0 which provides the basis for the purchase

of lamps by the Government depended upon this project to

provide necessary specifications. New specifications had

to be formulated and existing specifications revised periodically so that the qualification tests could afford the

means for qualifying only manufacturers who can supply to

the Government lamps of an acceptably high level of quality.

Under this project also American Standards and Federal

Specifications for the items covered by the project were

coordinated so that there would be no avoidable disagreement or duplication.

Activity Summary; Early in Fiscal 1957 this project was

terminated . The work on Federal Specifications for lamps

was transferred to Project 2320 which makes use of the

specifications. The cooperative work with ASA was transferred to Project 0299.

O204-3O-O218 Calibration of Length and Angle

Ob je ctive

s

: To calibrate graduated length standards (National

and State standards, NBS standards, master standards for

manufacturers, etc.), base-line tapes for surveyors and

engineers, leveling rods, engineers' transits and levels,

optical flats, precision graduated circles, and miscellaneous items requiring precision length, angle, or area

measurement, as, for example, sieves, haema cytometer chambers and cover glasses; to graduate special linear scales

and length standards using interferometer type and precision screw type of dividing engine; and to graduate precision circles for thepdolltes, spectrometers, etc.; to

calibrate thermal expansion apparatus for university and

Industrial laboratories. Work of this nature in calibrating surveying equipment for the U.S. Coast and Geodetic

Survey is under Project 363O-3O-I8OI , that for the InterAmerican Geodetic Survey for Fiscal 195? was under Project

0204-30-2312. During the early part of Fiscal 195? Project

0204-30-2332 covered only government reimbursable tests,

but for the greater part of the year it covered all reimbursable tests of the Length Section.

Importance of the Project : This project deals with a fundamental measurement in science. As the custodian of the

primary standard of length of this country, it is our

obligation to make precise lengths available to Government

agencies, science, commerce, and industry. This is done

by calibrating standards submitted here for test. This

Includes meter and yard bars, geodetic base-line tapes,

surveyors' tapes, and many other items.
- 95

MISCELLAIIEOUS (coHo)

0204-30-0218 (con„)

Activity Summary: This project was discontinued in the early

part of tEe Fiscal Year and the activities continued under

Project 2332. The report of the testing under Project

2332 Includes that done under 0218 o Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : Discontinued in early part of

Fiscal 195 ? and merged "with Project 2332 .

0204-30-2312 Calibration of Surveying Equipment

Objectives: To calibrate precision base-line tapes, steel

tapes, leveling rods, and other basic equipment used in

geodetic surveys.

Importance of the Project ; The equipment listed in the

statement of objectives is used for precision surveys

in Central and South America that are directly related

to National Defense and development. The NBS provides

the only reliable source of service available for the

required standardizations of this equipment. These

standardizations include the initial standardization of

new equipment and subsequent restandardizations after

use in the field.

Activity Summary; This has been a continuing project for

several years. Since July 1 , 1956 , 1 ? invar base-line

tapes and 5 steel tapes were calibrated.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 : This project is being discontinued effective July 1 , 1957 « The work previously done

under this project will thereafter be undertaken under

Project 0204-30-2332 on a reimbursable basis.

0604-30-0616 Calibration of Mechanical Testing

Machines and Apparatus

Objectives; To calibrate mechanical testing machines,

dynamometers, load cells, force, strain, displacement,

velocity and acceleration measuring equipment; to develop

test equipment and methods; to assist in the formulation

of specifications.

Importance of the Project : The NBS provides the only service available for the accurate calibration of elastic

devices used for calibrating testing machines. Devices

ranging in capacity from a few hundred pounds to several

million pounds are calibrated. The accuracies of the

testing machines used by the government and by producers
- 96 - MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

O6OI4. -30-0616 (con.)

and consumers are dependent on periodic calibrations with

devices calibrated at NBS. Calibration cells used by

manufacturers of aircraft weighing devices and load cells

for measuring the thrust of jet engines and weighing the

contents of bins and hoppers are calibrated in the NBS

dead weight machines.

A ctivity Summary; This has been a continuing project but will

be terminated at the close of Fiscal Year 1957 * Tiie work

will be continued under Project Numbers O6O4-3O-362I and

0604-20-06114.. During the fiscal year, 177 devices were

calibrated and reports and certificates were issued prior

to the initiation of Project No. 0604 -30-3621 under which

the calibrations of 633 devices were completed.

1003-30-4889 Factors Affecting Efficacy ,of Cleanable

Air Filters

Ob jectlves : The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the factors which affect the efficacy of viscous

impingement cleanable air filters and to develop information for use in Federal government specifications on these

devices

.

Importance of the Project : During the past three or four

years this Bureau has conducted rather comprehensive

investigations of the efficiency, pressure drop, and dustholding capacity of electrostatic air cleaners, and throwaway types of air cleaners for the General Services Administration and has performed some tests of viscous impingement cleanable air filters for the Bureau of Ships. These

results are widely distributed and widely used by various

agencies of the Federal government. The Defense Department

through the Tri-Service program of research and development

being conducted at NBS, wants to expand the available information on air filters by comparing the performance of

viscous Impingement cleanable filters with media of oneinch and two-inch thicknesses, respectively, and develop

data that will permit them to evaluate the relative

economies of cleanable versus throw-away types of filters.

Activity Summary: New Project.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1948 : I. Seven specimens of viscous

impingement cleanable filters of two-inch thickness and

an equal number of one-inch thickness made by the sam.e manufacturers will be tested at a face velocity of

300 ft/min to evaluate initial pressure drop, and the

efficiency and pressure drop for increments of dust load

until the pressure drop reaches one-half inch W.G. Two
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MISCELLANEOUS (coric)

1003-30-4889 (conO

consecutive tests will be made of each specimen with a thorough washing with a cold water spray between tests

to determine the cleanability of the filters

II. Interim reports will be provided during the program

as the test of each filter is completed. At the conclusion of the project all of the test results developed at

this Bureau during the last three or four years on viscous

Impingement cleanable filters, throw-away type filters,

and electrostatic air cleaners will be assembled in one

manual for distribution to the Defense Department and

other government agencies who have sponsored portions of

the program.

0400-40”0497 Recommendations for Radiation Protection

Objectives : To develop the basic principles for accomplishing radiation protection for all types of radiations, and

to formulate these principles for presentation as NBS

handbooks

,

Importance of the Project : For more than 25 years, the NBS

has been a national and International focal point for

formulation of basic policy, rules, and recommendations

in the field of radiation protection. Its ability to

perform this service has been developed and maintained

through the fact that the basic programs in standards and

testing have been carried out in the same laboratory

organization, with the result that the latest information

on the properties of radiation is available for translation into practical working codes for radiation-protection.

Considerable additional effort is required in preparing

recommendations to expand the areas covered by the NBS

handbooks. These handbooks, which are recognized as the

primary standards in radiation protection by Federal and

State agencies, present in a readily available and useful

form the protection information necessary in order to

safeguard properly the public and workers engaged in radiation fields.

Activity Summary: Work has been proceeding actively on

several radiation protection handbooks. Because of the

recent lowering of the maximum permissible radiation exposures, it has been necessary to undertake modifications

of several existing handbooks. This has consequently

resulted in the delay of the completion of handbooks which

were scheduled for release during the past year. One of

these handbooks dealing with neutron protection has been

submitted for publication. This represents one of the

most complete reports on neutron protection in existence.
98 - MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

O4OO-I4.O-O497 (con.)

As a result of recoinmendations by the International Commission on Radiological Protection, it has been necessary

to revise downward the permissible radiation exposure

levels for man. The reduction by a factor of about 3 > on

the average, was subject to serious administrative difficulties. A new interpretation of the newly proposed levels

associates the exposure with age and thereby eliminates

some of the local and administrative difficulties.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958 * Fourteen of the eighteen subcommittees have active programs outlined for the coming

year. Part of these are related to the revision of handbooks reflecting the lowered permissible exposure levels.

Others will be dealing with new questions, particularly

in the new field of radiological units and measurements.

It is expected that these programs will result in the

issuance of several handbooks during the coming year.

O40O-4O-3OOI Radiological Physics for Civil Defense

Objectives. To establish a central point for work on ionizing radiations relevant to problems of civil defense.

Importance of the Project : This project provides a substantial and diverse scientific effort on radiation problems

which is not otherwise available on an organized and continuing basis to the Federal civil Lefense Administration.

It makes available specialists in radiation physics who

act as a center for analysis, evaluation, and to carry out

some limited research investigation which may be required.

Activity Summary: In the early stages of this project a preliminary survey was made of available spectral and penetration data on which shelter analysis must be based.

This survey revealed that the most Important input spectral data, namely that pertaining to delayed fission gamma

rays, was in a very unsatisfactory state; furthermore, the

most important experiments and calculations of gamma ray

penetration for purposes of shelter evaluation had not

been done. We have, therefore, this year attempted to get

the spectral information, code the penetration calculations, and to perform an experiment in Nevada in a truly

clean geometry. We have had moderate success: Theoretical

data from which spectra can be ascertained has finally

become available late in the year. We have some prospects

now for obtaining from AEG additional data which we need

to round out the picture. The programming for gamma ray

penetration calculations, is nearly completed and the

largest single part has been tested out. The experiment
- 99 -

MISCELLANEOUS (con,)

0400-40-3001 (con.)

in Nevada is well under way. In addition, a survey of FCDA

monitoring instruments is nearly complete; and some work

has been done to develop Instruments based on new principles.

We have further attempted to work closely with people at

NRDL, Oak Ridge, AFSWP, and the Army Chemical Center to get

added information and help from these sources on penetration

into sheli:er geometries.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1958; The work begun should bear fruit

and become generally available this next fiscal year. The

spectral information should become available, the penetration

calculations should be completed, the study of monitoring

instruments should be written up, and the experiment in

Nevada should be analyzed. In addition, the work on this

project should go much more strongly in the direction of

experimentation. With the basis laid for proper interpretation, it now becomes desirable to test actual shelter-type

geometries both with laboratory sources and in actual field

tests

,

1000-40-1099 Consultative and Advisory Services

ObjectivesTo provide technical information on materials,

construction and equipment for buildings to governmental

agencies, scientific, professional and Industrial organizations and the general public.

Importance of the Project; Other governmental agencies, scientists and engineers depend upon the National Bureau of

Standards to assist them in solving their technical problems

by supplying accurate information on building materials and

structures including that on strength, fire resistance and

durability, and on heating and air-conditioning. Many of

the inquiries are not answerable properly by reference to

readily available publications or other source of information; scientists and engineers ordinarily appeal to the

Bureau after their failure to obtain satisfactory answers

to their questions from their Immediate associates. Specialist's of the Bureau often are able to provide the best

available information as the result of their own researches,

their studies of the scientific literature, and their wide

and close association with other specialists in the subject.

The Bureau’s assistance usually is given while expenditures

for new construction, maintenance or repairs are being contemplated; hence, accurate estimates of the value of the advice given cannot be made. Nevertheless, the relatively
100

MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

1000-40-1099 (con.)

large amounts indicated in the small number of instances

for which the value could be estimated Indicate that the

total amount is many times the cost to the Bureau. The

value of the Bureau's assistance in the preparation of

standards for products and constructions 16 not measurable

but is thought to be greater than the total of the advice

on individual construction projects.

Activity Summary: This is a continuing project. An example

of the type of service rendered in Fiscal Year 1957 under

the project is as follows:

(a) Representatives of the NBS consulted with members of

the trucking industry on means for es'tablis'hing standard

ratings for refrigerated trailers. A metering heat sink

method for measuring heat transfer was devised and demonstrated. Then a joint industry-government research project to test the metering heat sink method and to establish rating conditions for refrigerated trailers was constructed. The results disclosed an urgent need for the

development of rating methods and standards for mechanically

refrigerated enclosures, especially trucks and trailers.

(b) In the study of air hygiene in tuberculosis, sponsored by the Veterans Administration, an isolation ward at

the Veterans Hospital in Baltimore was used to provide

evidence that the infectlvity of tuberculosis can be

quantitatively determined. Knowledge of the precise air

leakage of this ward was required for this investigation.

Using portable air infiltration measuring equipment, members of the NBS measured air leakage from the Isolation

ward, and as a result, the establishment of a project to

determine the air flow pattern of the entire 300-bed hospital was suggested by the hospital officials.

(c) An extensive review and suggested revisions of five

Federal Specifications relating to fire extinguishing

devices were prepared for two Federal agencies.

(d) Consultative services were furnished to the Federal

Housing Administration concerning requirements for vapor

barriers in ceilings with loose-fill Insulations, and in

connection with the use of a vapor- impermeable insulation

on the cold side of the framing of buildings.
1000-40-1099 (con.)

MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

(e) An analysis was made for the Federal Trade Commission of the significance of certain test data on

air filters submitted to FTC by a non-governmental

laboratory.

There were many other services of this nature. Probably

the -service of most general value was the assistance of

the staff to committees of technical societies such as

the American Society for Testing Materials, American

Standards Association, the American Concrete Institute,

and the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning

Engineers. Scientific and engineering data were supplied

to the committees and assistance was given in the formulation of Improved standards and design manuals.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1998; Provide Information as requested

and continue to cooperate with scientific and technical

societies in the formulation of improved standards for

building materials and equipment. Services on committees

of the Federal Construction Council will be frequent, as

assistance of the staff is being sought increasingly on

investigations for governmental agencies and industry.

Current programs of the NBS are expected to make substantial contributions to improvements in methods of assessing

the fire hazard properties of building materials, in testing methods, and improving the values appearing in model

building codes. Substantial assistance will be given to

the American Society for Testing Materials Committees on

the revision of the guarded hot plate method for determining thermal conductivity, on the development of test

methods and standards for reflective insulation as well as

tes-t methods and standards for bituminous roofing, for

waterproofing material, and for other materials. Consultative services leading to standards, specifications

and handbook values will be rendered to other societies,

such as the American Standards Association and the

American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers,

Advisory services to the Federal Housing Administration,

Office of Chief of Engineers, and other governmental and

private organizations are anticipated in FY 1958.
102

MISCELLANEOUS (con.)

1000-40-4802 Federal Construction Council

Objectives

;

To provide a mechanism to assist Federal Agencies

in exchanging technical information on the design construction^ and maintenance of structures, and to facilitate interagency collaboration in this field.

Importance of the Project; In June 1953^ the National Bureau

of Standards negotiated a contract with the National Academy

of Sciences "to provide the necessary committee and staff

personnel to advise Federal Agencies on problems concerning

the improvement of construction technology for buildings and

other structures." Financing was accomplished by fund transfers to NBS from various agencies.

The Council serves as a forum for discussion, study, and evaluation of common problems and a clearing house for exchange

of information between the various agencies on technical

standards, design and construction practices, administrative

matters affecting technical operations, technical investigations, and similar activities relating to building research

and technology. The Chief of the Building Technology Division

serves as "Agency Representative" and monitors the work done

by the Council. The National Bureau of Standards, as a member of the Council, also participates in many of the technical phases of the program.

Activity Summary; During each fiscal year the Council assigns

tasks to groups madQ up of members of the participating

agencies and experts from elsewhere to conduct Studies of

current problems of design, construction and maintenance

of buildings. Upon completion of the studies, reports are

prepared and circulated to participating agencies and interested Government Agencies. Examples of studies either completed or underway during Fiscal Year 1957 follow:

(a) Waterproofing Masonry Walls Above and Below Grade - A

survey of agency experiences and practices and of available

methods oi preventing leakage.

(b) Flexible Floor Coverings - A survey to determine practices of Government Agencies, manufacturers, and owners in the

selection of flooring and on methods of bonding of flexible

floor coverings.

(c) Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers - A survey

of practices of Government Agencies regarding selecting,

rating, testing, performance, and maintenance of cooling

towers and evaporative condensers.
103 -

MISCELLANEOUS (con,)

1000-40-4802 (con.)

(d) Paints for Structure - A survey to determine paint

users' practices on specifying^ sampling and testing of

paint

.

( e )

• Maintenance and Operating Problems Affected by Design

and Construction - Identification of the design and construction factors having the greatest effect on the operation of buildings.

(f) Noise Control in Building Design - A survey leading

to determination of successful methods for noise abatement

through design and use of building materials.

(g) Electrical Load Growth in Buildings - A summary of

information on the increase in the use of electrical

energy in buildings and recommendations on allowances for

future growth of demand.

Plans for Fiscal Year 1938; Reports on the following representative studies and others will be completed. Work will

be initiated on new tasks.

(a) Working Drawings and Specifications - A review of

Government and Industry practices in the field of working

drawings and specifications.

( b ) Cathodic Protection as Applied to Underground Structures - An exchange of information on the effectiveness

of ''d'athodic protection for various underground structures.

( c ) Selection and Maintenance of Air Filters - A summary

of available information including that from experiences

of governmental agencies.

( d) Plumbing Research for Federal Construction Agencies - Identify the problems urgently needing research.

( e ) Underground Pipe Installatlon.and Systems - Summary of

facts and opinions on the performance of various types of

underground pipe constructions.

(f) Noise Control in Buildings - Identify agencies' noise

problems, sources of noises and methods of noise abatement.

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NATIONAF, miHRAU 01 STANDAKOS

A. V. Astiii. Dirodor

THE NATIONAL RLKEAU OF STANDARDS

'I'he scope of activities of the National Bureau of Standards at its headquarters in Washington,

D. (L, and its major laboratories in Boulder, Colo., is suggested in the following listing of the

divisions and sections engaged in technical work. In general, each section carries out specialized

research, developnient, and engineering in the field indicated by its title. A brief description of

the activities, and of the resultant pidilications, appears on the inside front cover. WASHINGTON, D. C.

Electricity and Electronics. Resistance and Reactance. Electron Devices. Electrical Instrunients. Magnetic Measurements. Dielectrics. F.ngineering Electronics. Electronic Instrumentation. Electrochemistry.

Optics gild Metrolog(y. Photometry and Colorimetry. Optical Instruments. Photographic

Technology. Lengtji. Engineering Metrology.

Heat. Temperature Physics. Thermodynamics. (Cryogenic Physics. Rheology. Engine

Fuels. Free Radicals Research.

Atomic and Radiation Physics. Spectroscopy. Radiometry. Mass Spectrometry. Solid State Physics. Electron i*hysics. Atomic l*hysics. Neutron Physics. Nuclear Physics. Radioactivity. X-rays. Betatron. Nucleonic Instrumentation. Radiological Equipment.

Chemistry. Organic Coatings. Surface Chemistry. Organic (diemistry. Analytical Chemistry. Inorganic (diemistry. Electrodeposition. Molecular Structure and Properties of Gases. Physical Chemistry. Thermochemistry. S|(eetrochemistry. Pure Substances.

Mechanics. Sound. Mechanical InstrunuMits. Fluid Mechanics. Engineering Mechanics.

Mass and Scale. (Capacity, Density, and Fluid Meters. Combustion Controls.

Organic and Fibrous Materials. Rubber, d'exlile.s. Paper. Leather. Testing and Specifications. Polymer Structure. Plastics. Dental Research.

Metallurgy. I'hermal Metallurg>. Chemical Metallurgy. Mechanical Metallurgy. Corrosion.

Metal Physics.

Mineral Products. Engineering Ceramics, (ilass. Refractories. Enameled Metals. Concreting Materials. Constitution and Microstrueture.

Building Technology. Structural Engineering. Fire Protection. Air Conditioning, Heating,

and Refrigeration. Floor, Roof, ami Wall Coverings. (axles and Safety Standards. Heat

Transfer,

Applied Mathematics. Numerical Analysis. (Computation. Statistical Engineering. Mathematical Physics.

Data Processing Systems. SEA(C Engineering (iroup. (Components and Techniques. Digital

(Circuitry. Digital Systems. Analog Systems. Ap|)lication Engineering.

• Office of Basic Instrumentation. • (^Ifiee of Weights and Measures.

BOULDER, (COLORADO

Cryogenic Engineering. (Cryogenic Ecjuipment. (.ryogenic Processes. Properties t)l Materials.

Gas Liquefaction.

Radio Propagation Physics. Upper Almos|)here Research. Ionospheric Research. Regular

Propagation Services. Sun-Earth Relationships. VII F Research.

Radio Propagation Engineering. Data Reduction Instruimmtation. Modidalion Systems.

Navigatitm Systems. Radio Noise. d'ropospheric Measurtmients. 'I'laquispln'iic Analysis.

Radio .Systems Ap|>lication Engineering. Radio Meteorology.

Radio Standards. High I’re(|ueiM‘y Electri<’al .Standards. Radio Broadcast Serxice. High

Freqmmcy InqxMlance Standards. (Calibration (Center. Microw ave Physics. Microw a\ e ( .ircuit Standards.