Most buyers believe that mineral wool, as a material of natural origin, is safe for humans, and there is no need to worry about anything. However, this is not quite true.
Where is the danger hiding?
In production mineral wool phenol-formaldehyde resins are used. They glue rock fibers together, giving it shape. These same resins age over the years, begin to release vapors of phenol and formaldehyde, and due to temperature fluctuations their concentration in the air increases.
These chemicals have long been recognized as carcinogens, which belong to hazard class 2 (according to GOST 20907-2016 “Phenol-formaldehyde liquid resins. Technical conditions”).
Using mineral wool can lead to health problems such as:
Irritation of mucous membranes and respiratory diseases (chronic bronchitis, allergic asthma, chest pain, shortness of breath, and pneumoconiosis).
Dermatological diseases (eczema on the face, forearms, hands, as well as damage to the nails).
Neurological and mental changes (memory impairment, insomnia, unstable emotional state).
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system (if the substance enters the body through the mouth);
Oncology and reproductive dysfunction in women.
Who is at risk?
Firstly, production workers.
Research conducted by scientists Clara Ross and James Lockey of the University of Cincinnati, showed that during the production of mineral wool, fine dust with a diameter of 3.5–7 microns is formed. These fibers cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract of workers. With prolonged exposure and inhalation of microfibers, the risk of developing lung cancer is very high. That is why it is necessary to observe labor safety measures and use personal protective equipment in production.
Secondly, builders.
Builders working with mineral wool are also at risk. Toxicologist Paul Brom confirms danger of the material and recommends the use of protective clothing, respirators, goggles and gloves for any contact with fiber insulation.
Thirdly, residents of houses and apartments insulated with mineral wool.
City residents spend most of their time indoors. A house ceases to be a fortress when unsafe thermal insulation materials are used for its walls and roofs.
In 2011, the following story happened in the city of Berezniki, Perm Territory. A new residential complex was built, but before moving in, Rospotrebnadzor discovered that the concentration of formaldehyde in the air was so high that life in the house would be impossible. The apartment complex was eventually demolished.
It was later found that the increase in formaldehyde concentrations was directly related to the use of mineral wool as insulation in houses. The low-quality material began to release formaldehyde vapors into the air.
How to protect yourself?
Before choosing mineral wool as insulation, it is important to carefully consider your choice. Due to microscopic fibers, appropriate precautions are required when installing the material.
In addition, you should consider the potential risks associated with the use of insulation, which we mentioned earlier. It is better to choose reliable modern thermal insulation materials for construction in order to preserve the health of your family members.
