Soluble High-Temperaure Insulation Fibres

Although only amphibole, asbestos and erionite have been shown to be unambiguously pathogenic in humans and there is no direct evidence inculpating Man Made Vitreous Fibres (MMVF), research has long continued into high-temperature fibres, particularly as alternatives to Refractory Ceramic Fibres (RCF). This work was given added impetus by the issue of EU Directive 97/69/EC. This Directive, on the basis of animal studies, classified a range of MMVF (including RCF) as category 2 carcinogens. EU member states are required to incorporate the new classification into their legal system by December 1998.