Synthetic Vitreous Fibers

Synthetic vitreous fibers are a group of fibrous, inorganic materials that contain aluminum or calcium silicates, and are made from rock or stone, clay, slag, or glass. They do not occur naturally in the environment, but are used widely for thermal and sound insulating purposes and to reinforce other materials. There are three categories of synthetic vitreous fibers: 1) glass fibers (fiberglass), including glass wool and continuous filament glass, 2) mineral wool, which contains stone wool and slag wool, and 3) refractory ceramic fibers.

Insulation that is used in homes and buildings is composed of synthetic vitreous fibers. Refractory ceramic fibers are not widely used for building insulation. They are used to insulate furnaces, in replacement of asbestos.

Short-term exposure can cause reversible skin, eye, and lung irritation. Workers from factories making synthetic vitreous fibers used in home insulation showed no increased rates of lung problems. Some refractory ceramic fiber workers showed changes in their chest x-rays, but these changes are not associated with breathing problems. There is no clear association between exposure to synthetic vitreous fibers and cancer in humans. Synthetic vitreous fibers have not been detected in any of the 1,613 National Priorities List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. In addition, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be timelimits within which you must commence suit.

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Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

See Also¶

1. Toxic & Hazardous Substances
2. Breathing: Overview
3. Cancer
4. Ear, Nose, & Throat Disorders
5. Eye Disorders
6. Lung & Airway Disorders
7. Mesothelioma
8. Pulmonary Fibrosis: Overview
9. Skin Disorders: Overview
10. Synthetic Vitreous Fibers: Frequently Asked Questions