Evaluation of fungal growth on fiberglass duct materials for various moisture, soil use and temperature conditions.

Analyses possible biocontamination of fibreglass duct materials used for thermal insulation and noise control in both residential and commercial heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, in the light of concerns about the safety of their use in high humidity conditions. Static environmental chamber tests were carried out over six weeks to investigate conditions which might support the growth of a fungus, Penicillium chrysogenum. Newly bought materials were used as samples: three different fiberglass duct liners, one fiberglass duct board and fiberglass insulation, as well as older materials. The evaluations included aspects of moisture, soil, use and temperature on fungus growth. The fungus was able to grow on all of the older samples. It was able to grow on one of the new samples under low (12 Deg C) and room (23 Deg. C) temperature and high relative humidity. Wetting and/or soiling was found to increase the materials' susceptibility.