Rock wool is an inorganic insulating material made of artificial mineral fibres (mineral wool) and is made from the fibres of molten natural stones (e.g. dolomite, basalt, diabase), which are bound with synthetic resin and to which small amounts of mineral oil are added. The insulating effect is created by the air pockets between the fibres. Rock wool is resistant to rotting, vermin and fungal infestation, is open to diffusion and easy to process. It loses its good insulating effect when it is soaked through. The production of rock wool is very energy-intensive. In addition, it is only recyclable to a limited extent due to the organic additives. Rock wool is available in the form of dimensionally stable, elastic insulation boards or roll goods, usually in thicknesses of 80 - 240 mm.
However, the fine fibres can lead to irritation of the skin, eyes and lungs if not handled properly. When processing rock wool, precautions must be taken, such as wearing dust masks, suitable clothing and gloves. Precise instructions are given in the instructions for handling mineral wool insulation materials, which have been published by the German Employers' Liability Insurance Association for the Construction Industry.
