R/E/P Community

R/E/P => Acoustics in Motion => Topic started by: craig boychuk on September 25, 2011, 10:32:36 AM

Title: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: craig boychuk on September 25, 2011, 10:32:36 AM
Hi folks

I am trying to find information on any possible health concerns when using mineral fiber insulation board in room treatment (bass traps, panels, etc.).

Aside from being careful when you are handling the material, is there any reason to not have it sitting in a room with you for the long-term?

I would probably rather use something like cotton, but I have a bunch of fibrex stuff on hand so thought I might as well use it if it's not terrible.

As far as I can tell it should be no problem, but thought I'd double check.

Thank you!

-craig boychuk-

Title: Re: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: Thomas@Northward on September 26, 2011, 04:07:34 AM
It's not a problem. Cover it with fabric though.
Title: Re: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: craig boychuk on September 26, 2011, 09:32:35 AM
Yep, everything will be nicely covered.

Thanks Thomas!

-craig-
Title: Re: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: DanDan on October 05, 2011, 04:09:26 PM
Many of us have similar concerns. Cotton may not be as benign as you assume.
http://www.gearslutz.com/board/bass-traps-acoustic-panels-foam-etc/347314-comparative-safety-rockwool-fiberglass-organic-fibers-review.html
DD
Title: Re: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: Andre Vare on October 12, 2011, 03:31:43 PM
Aside from being careful when you are handling the material, is there any reason to not have it sitting in a room with you for the long-term?

I would probably rather use something like cotton, but I have a bunch of fibrex stuff on hand so thought I might as well use it if it's not terrible.
Ther are no issues with mineral wool.  Repating Dan's post, there are concerns about coton.

Cottony soft, but not dangerous,
Andre
Title: Re: mineral fiber health concerns?
Post by: DarinK on October 13, 2011, 01:05:02 PM
Dan's link should be read.  It does NOT say that there are no issues with mineral wool - far from it.  It just says that there are no issues with one particular type of mineral wool.  And it speculates that there could be issues with cotton.  But perhaps most importantly, this conclusion: 
"Whatever you choose, always wear a mask, gloves, and protective clothing when handling any of these materials raw and you should be fine. All the materials we use should be safe for normal studio applications. Studios/manufacturers that are still concerned about using any of these materials may wish to opt for a tighter weave fabric or a layer of polyester batting or other wrap glued to the insulation underneath. In fact, that might be good advice for anyone, but that's each person's call to make. "