Rozzol

Rozzol (also sometimes spelled Rozzol-Melara) refers to a type of Italian thermal insulation material historically used in building construction, particularly during the mid-20th century. It is characterized by its lightweight nature and porous structure. Rozzol was composed primarily of a mixture of expanded clay aggregate, cement, and water, sometimes incorporating other additives to improve its performance characteristics, such as workability or insulation value.

The material gained popularity due to its relative ease of production, low cost, and reasonable thermal insulation properties compared to alternative materials available at the time. It was frequently employed in the construction of walls, roofs, and floors in both residential and commercial buildings.

However, Rozzol is now often viewed with concern due to its potential for containing asbestos fibers. Asbestos was sometimes added to the Rozzol mixture to enhance its fire resistance and structural integrity. If asbestos is present, disturbing or removing Rozzol during renovation or demolition activities can release harmful fibers into the air, posing a significant health risk.

Therefore, buildings constructed using Rozzol materials require careful assessment to determine the presence and concentration of asbestos. Professional asbestos abatement is typically necessary to safely remove or manage Rozzol containing asbestos. In contemporary construction practices, Rozzol has largely been replaced by safer and more effective insulation materials.