Asbestos insulation - first year chem eng problem

[bruceflea]

how good an insulator is asbestos? (thermal conductivity 0.15 W/ m K). I am trying to determine the thickness of insulation required to reduce the heat loss of a spherical container by half. The answer I calculated it to be is 0.2cm which to me doesn't seem right (too small?) but having no experience with asbestos, it may be correct?

 

[Astronuc]

Here is a table of thermal conducitivties, which includes metals (good thermal conducitivity) and insulators (poor (or low) thermal conductivity).

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/tables/thrcn.html

See also discussion on thermal conductivity
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/thermo/heatra.html#c2

 

[piercas]

I would advise caution in using asbestos as an insulation material. While it does have a low thermal conductivity of 0.15 W/m K, it is also a known carcinogen and can pose serious health risks when inhaled. Therefore, it is important to consider alternative insulation materials that may be safer and more effective.

In terms of the calculation for the thickness of insulation required to reduce heat loss by half, it is important to consider other factors such as the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the container, the surface area of the container, and the overall efficiency of the insulation. Additionally, the type and condition of the asbestos insulation can also affect its effectiveness as an insulator.

In conclusion, while asbestos may have a low thermal conductivity, it is not worth the potential health risks to use it as an insulation material. It is important to explore alternative options and carefully consider all factors when determining the appropriate thickness of insulation for a specific application.