What’s glass wool?

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Glass wool is a fibrous material used for insulation and air filters. It is made by spinning glass into fibers and can be cut into mats or blankets. It is available at home improvement stores and can be used for sound insulation or in aircraft. Glass wool is strong and resistant but can cause irritation and lung problems if inhaled. Protective equipment is recommended when handling it.

Glass wool is an industrial product obtained by spinning glass into a fibrous material that can be made into mats and blankets. This product is used as an insulator and in other applications, such as air filters. It’s available at home improvement stores, and manufacturers may also produce wool for special purposes, such as insulation in aircraft, where standards may be higher for health and safety reasons. A number of companies make glass wool products along with lines of other insulating materials for a variety of applications.

This product consists of molten glass mixed with a binder and forced through a fine sieve to turn it into delicate spun fibers. The fibers are easily matted together and can be packaged in pre-cut flaps or rolled blankets. Blankets allow users to cut glass wool to size for the specific application, while flaps can be useful for standardized construction. Some glass wool products have a paper backing to make them easier to handle. The document may include signs discussing the grade and type of wool for the convenience of the workers.

For basic insulation in homes and other structures, this product can provide adequate loft and depth to limit heat transfer and also block out some sounds. You can also purchase special glass wool designed as sound insulation for tasks such as building sound booths or soundproofing a house in a noisy location, such as near a highway. Other specialty products are used in aircraft applications and as insulators for equipment such as batteries.

Glass wool is strong, durable and resistant. It can potentially become a home for microbial growth if it gets wet, but otherwise it should resist mold and other problems. In applications such as construction, it is typically applied in walls wrapped with Tyvek® and other materials, which successfully keep water out of the building envelope. Special purpose products are even more durable and can withstand harsh conditions.

Workers handling glass wool should exercise caution. It is an irritant that can cause itching and discomfort if it comes into contact with the skin, mucous membranes or eyes. It can also cause lung problems if inhaled. Protective equipment, including long sleeves, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator, is a good idea when handling this insulation product, especially special purpose products due to their increased strength. If anyone develops symptoms of exposure such as itching or wheezing, it is advisable to see a doctor.




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