Rock wool (stone wool) and quartz wool (glass wool) are both types of thermal insulation materials made from different raw materials, each with distinct properties. Here’s a comparison of the two:
Rock Wool (Stone Wool):
Raw Material: Rock wool is primarily made from basalt and other volcanic rocks. The rocks are melted at high temperatures and spun into fibers.
Properties:
- High Thermal Insulation: Rock wool provides excellent thermal insulation, helping to reduce heat loss in buildings.
- High Fire Resistance: It can withstand temperatures up to 1000°C and is non-combustible, making it ideal for fire safety.
- Sound Insulation: Due to its high density, rock wool has excellent sound insulation properties.
- Chemical Resistance: Rock wool is resistant to chemicals and does not rot.
Applications: Rock wool is commonly used in industrial buildings, multi-story residential buildings, and areas where high fire resistance is required.
Quartz Wool (Glass Wool):
Raw Material: Quartz wool is made from quartz sand, dolomite, limestone, and other silicate materials. These materials are melted at high temperatures and formed into glass fibers.
Properties:
- Good Thermal Insulation: Quartz wool is slightly more effective in thermal insulation due to its lower thermal conductivity.
- Lightweight: Glass wool is lighter, making it easier to transport and install.
- Sound Insulation: It also provides good sound insulation, although it is slightly less effective than rock wool.
- Flexibility: Quartz wool is more flexible, making it easier to install.
Applications: Quartz wool is widely used in roofing, wall, and floor insulation, as well as in the interior insulation of buildings.
Key Differences:
- Raw Material: Rock wool is made from basalt rock fibers, while quartz wool is made from glass fibers.
- Fire Resistance: Rock wool has higher fire resistance compared to quartz wool.
- Weight and Thermal Insulation: Quartz wool is lighter and has slightly better thermal insulation properties.
Both materials have their unique advantages and are chosen based on the specific requirements of a construction project.