SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1987
STP18484S

Formaldehyde Emissions from Selected Fibrous Glass Insulation Products

Source

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).

Author Information

Matthews, TG
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN
Westley, RR
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
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Details
Developed by Committee: C16
Pages: 223–237
DOI: 10.1520/STP18484S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4998-4
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0493-8