Case study Biosoluble, man-made mineral fibres for insulation in structures

3 Case study Biosoluble, man-made mineral fibres for insulation in structures  

The technical suitability of insulation materials is described by a series of technical parameters relating to the material (heat conductivity and heat storage capacities, damp protection, fire protection class, noise-insulating effect, properties related to building biology, e g. content of hazardous substances such as flame retardants and insecticides). Mineral wools have certain advantages over other insu- 

The carcinogenic effect of a fibre depends on the concentration (exposure ), the geometry of the fibre, which is also called fibre dimension (which also determines the inhalability ) and also the biodurability (persistence in the body or dissolution of the fibres by the body). 

With regard to biodurability the resistance of the fibres to elimination mechanisms in the lung is decisive from a toxicological aspect. Biosolubility is an essential parameter for this. 

It is evident that fibre geometry and biodurability are the decisive criteria for the carcinogenic properties of fibres. However, there are differing opinions between fibre manufacturers and occupational health and safety experts in the EU and Germany concerning the examination and measuring methods and the evaluation of the carcinogenic properties. 

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