Low density board (LDB)
Description
Also known as asbestos insulating board (AIB). Sheeting of similar visual surface appearance to asbestos cement sheeting. Used for walls and ceilings between 1950s-70s. Solid or perforated. Produced in 4.5mm, 6.5mm, 9mm and 12mm thicknesses.
Marketed as non-combustible light weight interior lining for insulation under hot water tanks, heaters, ironing boards, behind stoves and cupboard linings.
Often made from amosite asbestos mixed with chrysotile asbestos and calcium silicate plaster as the binder. Lighter material, more advantageous to logistics and installation.
Rear side of LDB is usually dimpled. Edging often bevelled so sheet joints will appear to have V-shaped valley when butted together. Squared edges (stone cut) also produced.
Used in ceiling tiles. See ceiling tiles information page.
Hardie’s Asbestolux was advertised as ‘…protection from fire, sound, heat, cold and condensation.’
CSR/Wunderlich Bevelux was advertised as: ‘…will not shatter when exposed to intense heat.’
Brands/products
- Asbestolux
- Duralux
- Bevelux
- F.R. Board
Since May 2021, LDB is classified as friable in all circumstances under Queensland law.
Years of production/use
1950s – 1970s
Residential uses
- Houses. Also perforated sheets used in workshops as tool peg boards.
- Floor insulation beneath hot tanks, heaters. Under floor insulation above lower floor garages. Lining of cupboards and behind stoves.
Industrial uses
- Factories, workshops, shops, community and government buildings, offices etc.
- Used as ‘fillets’ for fire rated structures – see: AC tween panels (Fillets) for fire rated ceilings information page.
- Draught fire curtains, industrial ovens/driers, high temp trunking and ducting, heat shields, linings for foundry pallets, moulding boxes and electrical circuit boxes.
Be aware
LDB is easily damaged. Tears like cardboard. Estimated asbestos content is up to 70%.
Safe Work Australia Guide: How to identify and handle low density asbestos fibre board
