Presenter: Helene Hardy Pierce, Rene Dupuis
Format: Audio

Extensive testing of TPO membranes has been undertaken during the past 10-15 years, with several manufacturers and independent laboratories measuring different attributes of these membranes for a variety of reasons. Much of this testing has been shared with interested parties through a variety of mechanisms, including product literature, peer reviewed papers, symposia and conventions venues, and even in ASTM task force meetings. In 2013, Structural Research, Inc., at the request of GAF, began a comprehensive testing program of TPO membranes that continued through 2014, testing a broad array of attributes and this session will review results of this program and compare them with historic test data and in field performance of TPO membranes. Material will be presented at an intermediate level and is 100% commercial.

Learning Objectives:

• Determine what test methods can best predict different performance attributes and why these test methods are used by those wanting to test TPO membranes
• Expand your knowledge base about membrane testing and artificial aging ? and why this type of testing can be key predictors of long term performance on the roof
• Identify what information TPO manufacturers need to provide roofing contractors about the performance of their membranes
• Gain an understanding about the evolution of these membranes into dependable single ply membranes through a review of over a decade worth of testing ? and how the results are changing that can impact performance in the field