Quote:
Originally Posted by Woodworker88
I believe that the surface of the Glasliner FRP material is primarily fiberglass and therefore any mechanical abrasion is unlikely to result in the release of styrene fumes. Considering the material is designed for use in bathrooms and other common locations, any outgassing is possible but unlikely.
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It is a fiber glass composite. Surprisingly, my concern isn't about the fine particulate fiber glass. The continuous phase of the composite is polyester resin. Polyester can contain benzene pendant groups likely from a styrene solvent. When burned, or even ground into particulate, the components go airborne.
The material is used in household and industrial applications because it is mildew resistant, tough, hard, easy to clean, and chemical resistant. That doesn't mean that it is harmless. After all, how often is the wall of a bathroom or the ceiling of a kitchen going to be abraded the way that these floors will during this competition? In any case, the manufacturer highly recommends that you wear masks while cutting or sanding the Glasliner FRP.
Like I said, ppm isn't going to harm anyone, but it can be nauseating or irritating to the sinuses, throat or lungs in the very least. I would just like to verify that this isn't the first time that this issue is being addressed.