Mineral Wool

insulation · materials · building · engineering

Made from melted rock. Mineral wool is created by taking materials like rock and slag (leftover from metal production) and melting them into a liquid, then spinning or stretching that hot liquid into super-thin fibers, kind of like how cotton candy is made.

Keeps heat in. One of mineral wool's biggest jobs is thermal insulation, meaning it traps heat inside buildings during winter and keeps cool air in during summer, which helps save energy and money on heating and cooling.

Stops sound waves. Mineral wool is great at absorbing sound because all those tiny fibers trap sound waves and prevent them from bouncing around rooms, making it perfect for recording studios and quiet offices.

Modern invention. Scientists first figured out how to manufacture mineral wool in the 19th century, and it's been improving ever since as a safer and more efficient building material.

Handle with care. During manufacturing and installation, mineral wool can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs if the tiny fibers are breathed in, so workers wear protective gear when handling it.