INFRARED OBSERVATIONS OF RCB STARS IN THE LMC

JHKL photometry of the two well-known R Coronae Borealis (RCB) stars i n the LMC, W Men and HV 12842, and a third possible class member, HV 5 637, is presented. RCB-type variations are seen in the light curves fo r W Men and HV 12842. These two stars also have variable dust shells w hose temperatures (800-900 K) lie in the range expected for galactic R CB variables. HV 5637 shows no evidence for RCB-type variations or an infrared excess during the period of observation. Given its history an d infrared characteristics, the validity of its classification as an R CB star is questioned.