Differences Between ROCKWOOL Insulation and Asbestos

Research & Testing Institute

Acronym

Test Results

International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization

IARC

Not classified as a carcinogen for humans

Fiberglass and Rockwool Insulation Manufacturers Association of Australia

FARIMA

Not classified as a carcinogen for humans

TUV SUD Standard Testing Organization

TUV SUD

No asbestos detected

Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research

TISTR

No asbestos detected

National Metal and Materials Technology Center

MTEC

No asbestos detected

Difference

ROCKWOOL Insulation

Asbestos

Raw Materials

Basalt, Dolomite

Silicate minerals

Origin

Produced by melting rock and spinning it into fibers, mimicking the natural volcanic eruption process

Formed by the accumulation of silicate minerals

Properties

Melting point of 1000°C, excellent heat resistance, non-flammable, does not spread fire, and produces no smoke

Heat resistance between 700-1000°C, durable and strong

Fiber Characteristics

Diameter approximately 4-6 microns, too large to be inhaled into the lungs

Diameter less than 1 micron, small enough to be inhaled into the lungs

Fiber Breakage

Breaks with rounded edges, like chalk

Breaks into sharp fragments, which can become airborne

Usage

Used as fire, heat, and sound insulation, and for sound absorption

Used in various industrial products like brake pads, cement pipes, and roof tiles

Health Impact

Does not cause cancer in humans

Causes cancer in humans

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)

Group 3: Products not classified as carcinogenic to humans, including stone wool insulation, electromagnetic fields, and certain types of tea

Group 1: Products classified as carcinogenic to humans, including tobacco smoke, alcoholic beverages, and asbestos