Vulcanized fibre-an old material with a new relevancy

Abstract

"Invention for (an) improved means of giving increased strength to paper." This was the introduction of a patent application in 1859 by Thomas Taylor for the vulcanized fibre process. This patent was the procedure for converting a cellulose paper material into a unique laminate product with an unusual combination of "plastic-like" physical and chemical properties. Paper was transformed into a material that possessed increased strength and durability. VF is a laminate of cellulose paper plies. Here, the author examines vulcanized fibre insulation and explores how a relatively old material is finding a new relevancy in todays's insulation applications.