SEDL / STP / STP922-EB / STP18484S

Formaldehyde Emissions from Selected Fibrous Glass Insulation Products

Matthews, TG
Research scientist, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN

Westley, RR
Graduate student, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN

Pages: 15    Published: Jan 1987

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Abstract

The formaldehyde (CH²O) emission potential of fibrous glass insulation acquired from the three largest manufacturers in the United States has been investigated. Screening measurements of unfaced and kraft-faced R-19, foil-faced R-11, and 25.4-mm (1-in.) unfaced insulation made with a formaldehyde surface emission monitor (FSEM) demonstrate low interproduct and intermanufacturer variation in CH²O emission rates. The FSEM screening data and environmental chamber measurements of unfaced R-19 insulation taken at 23°C and 50% relative humidity both indicate CH²O emission rates of 0.02 ± 0.01 mg/m² h after one to three months of product conditioning in atmospheres of low CH²O concentration. Threefold to fourfold increases in CH²O emissions were measured in environmental chamber tests taken at 38°C and 68% relative humidity, simulating potential seasonal exposures in attic and wall cavities adjacent to indoor compartments. However, a two-compartment, diffusion model describing the potential impact of attic insulation at 38°C and 68% relative humidity on indoor CH²O concentrations indicates a maximum increment of 0.03 mg/m³ (0.02 ppm).