Artificial Glass Fibers (AFGF) are inorganic fibrous materials with an amorphous molecular structure, which are produced from minerals and oxides of various kinds: they are widely used in the field of thermal and acoustic insulation, as reinforcing materials in plastic products and in the textile industry, in the insulation of plant components in sectors where "hot" production cycles take place.
The activity carried out had the objective of mapping and classifying the Artificial Glass Fibers present in 17 AMSA sites, located in the Province of Milan.
The approach adopted has allowed to verify with accuracy the suspected artifacts through on-site surveys and the collection of massive samples.
The activities have been entirely carried out at operating plants, without performing destructive interventions.
ContinuePerforming on-site inspections and surveys.
Sampling of suspected FAVs for classes with similar visual characteristics.
Definition of actions to be taken in case of presence of FAV.
The activities were carried out as follows:
- Execution of inspections and surveys for each site, also using an aerial platform for verification under the covers;
- Collection of n.186 samples of artifacts suspected of containing FAV, contextual drawing up of a characterizing card for each sample and photographic survey;
- Quantification of artifacts containing FAV category 2 for homogeneous groups such as the overall development of pipe insulation, plumbing, air conditioning systems, false ceilings and movable walls or building elements in general;
- Analysis of FAV classification aimed at identifying:
- Fiber size through optical microscopy
- Percentage of alkaline-earth oxides through XRF spectrophotometry
- Preparation of plans with the location of sampling points and places where category 2 and category 1B FAVs were found.
The activities carried out have allowed to classify the samples taken in 3 categories: Category 2 FAVs, non-carcinogenic FAVs, and samples containing no FAVs but materials of another nature. Subsequently, a quantitative estimation of artifacts containing category 2 FAV was performed.
Technical reports have been produced for each site containing a series of proposals on the interventions to be carried out, including:
- Updating of the DVR and execution of an informative report on the specific risks.
- Periodic control of the state of conservation of the FAV and of the confinements.
- Interventions for the safety of the areas in poor/discreet state of conservation and with outcropping FAV.
