Difference Between Rock Wool And Glass Wool

Glass wool and rock wool insulation products are now the main insulation materials. Insulation is used for a variety of purposes, including domestic needs, industrial needs and vital operations. It is vital that you choose the best insulation material available for the job. Both have advantages and disadvantages. We have described some of the most important variables to consider when considering whether to use glass fibre or mineral wool for your project.

Glass wool

Glass wool, commonly referred to as glass fibre, is made from a mixture of natural and recycled glass (recycled bottles, vehicle windscreens and window glass), which is melted at 1,450 degrees Celsius and quickly spun into filamentary threads. Afterwards, the fibres are bonded together and used as an insulating material. As air is a poor conductor of heat, the glass fibres form pockets of air which act as a barrier to limit heat loss. Glass wool is used in wadding and rolls as well as insulation boards.

Rockwool

Rock wool is made from non-recyclable but abundant volcanic rocks (dolomite, pyrochlore and basalt). Slag wool is made from recycled waste products from blast furnaces. Although both are sometimes referred to as rock wool, asbestos produces a higher quality product and higher performance than slag wool. These raw materials are processed in the same way as glass is prepared: they are melted at high temperatures (around 1,500°C) and then spun into fibres. Afterwards, the wool is packed into wools, rolls or slabs. The advantages of rock wool insulation over glass wool insulation have always been controversial.

Are glass wool tiles safe?

Glass fibres can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Irritation of the eyes, skin, nose and throat, as well as difficulty breathing (breathing problems), sore throat, hoarseness and coughing, are possible symptoms. Scientific evidence suggests that fibreglass is safe to manufacture, install and use when recommended working methods are followed to reduce temporary mechanical irritation. Unfortunately, these work procedures are not often followed and fibreglass is often exposed in occupied basements. According to the American Lung Association, fibreglass insulation should never be exposed in densely populated spaces.

What is a fibreglass ceiling?

Recycled glass bottles, sand and other elements are used to make glass fibre insulation. Glass fibre insulation is sometimes referred to as glass wool. Glass fibre mats and glass fibre insulation are other names for it. They are melted and spun into fibres at extremely high temperatures. As a result, millions of tiny air pockets are created inside the insulation, giving glass wool insulation its excellent insulating properties.

Conclusion

Glass wool is an insulating material consisting of glass fibres bonded together with an adhesive that gives it a wool-like feel. Throughout the process, many small air bubbles are trapped between the glass, resulting in excellent insulation. Glass wool comes in rolls or sheets, each with its own thermal and mechanical properties. It can also be made into a sprayed or in-situ material that can be applied to the surface to be insulated.