Synthetic Mineral Fibres used in Australia

For over 60 years, glass fibre, mineral wool, and ceramic fibre materials have been utilized in various products for their thermal, acoustic, and fire insulation properties, as well as for fibre reinforcement in some cases. In specific applications, these fibres have been employed as substitutes for asbestos-based materials. Collectively known as synthetic mineral fibres (SMF), all these materials' fibres are categorized as amorphous (non-crystalline) fibres.

The potential health risks associated with exposure to synthetic mineral fibres, particularly glass wool and rock wool, have been debated for many years, primarily due to their irritant properties. However, extensive research spanning a 30-year period by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded that these materials are not carcinogenic to humans. Despite this finding, synthetic mineral fibres are now recognized as hazardous materials.