Mineral wool has a unique range of properties combining high thermal resistance with long-term stability. It is made from molten glass, stone or slag that is spun into a fibre-like structure which creates a combination of properties that no other insulation material can match.

Namely the ability to:

• Save energy
• Minimise pollution
• Combat noise
• Reduce the risk of fire
• Protect life & property in the event of fire

Inorganic rock or slag are the main components (typically 98%) of stone wool. The remaining 2% organic content is generally a thermosetting resin binder (an adhesive) and a little oil. Glass wool products usually contain 95% to 96% inorganic material.

Stone wool is made from volcanic rock, typically basalt or dolomite, an increasing proportion of which is recycled material in the form of briquettes. Slag wool is made from blast furnace slag (waste).

The briquette can be from recycled material

Glass wool is made from sand or recycled glass, limestone and soda ash; the same ingredients as for familiar glass objects such as window panes or glass bottles.

CE Marking

The Construction Products Directive (89/106/EEC) requires products to be 'CE' marked which shows their conformity with EU standards. The CPD aims to harmonise the tests, performance declarations and conformity testing across Member States in order to remove any barriers to trade through having to comply with differing national standards.

A CE marked product can be sold anywhere in the European Economic Area. It should be noted that it is not a label of quality with, for example factors such as reliability or durability not taken into account.