Abstract
An experimental study has been carried out to investigate the effect of the water medium on the material behavior of the inorganic mineral fibers. This was conducted by exposing the mineral fibers to simulated environmental con ditions, in which an excessive water medium and a heating treatment at temperature up to 100°C were maintained for a relatively short period of about 3-4 months. Results of the study showed that these inorganic mineral fibers exhibit a physical change transforming the long and thread-like filaments into small segments and granules as a result of the simultaneous exposure to the heat-humidity treatment. Microscopic examinations showed that the fibers displayed a growth of foreign substance and formation of a reticular network structure on the surface of the individual fibers. The cause of this material degradation process has been interpreted to be related to a chemical leaching process.
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