Belarus combines wind energy and basalt technology in new insulation hub

A unique production facility for basalt insulation has been established in the city of Mogilev in eastern Belarus, combining "volcanic" technology with wind energy, reports BelTA, a partner of TV BRICS.

Basalt insulation is a mineral thermal insulation material widely used in construction. It is produced from volcanic rock. The technology recreates the natural process of volcanic rock formation on an industrial scale: crushed basalt is loaded into special furnaces, where, at a temperature of 1,500 degrees Celsius, the rock turns into liquid lava. This molten mass forms ultra-fine fibres, which then form the basis for insulation boards.

The operation of the insulation production plant in Mogilev is powered by its own wind farm comprising 15 turbines. Clean wind energy, combined with waste-free technologies, makes production not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. The use of renewable energy sources enhances the competitiveness of Belarusian insulation on foreign markets, particularly in countries where a product’s carbon footprint is becoming a mandatory requirement.

It is noted that the entire process – from melting the rock to packaging the finished product – is fully automated. The plant has the capacity to produce 400,000 cubic metres of product per year. Since its launch, it has provided the region with 89 new jobs.

The plant, which is unique in the country thanks to its combination of "volcanic" technology and wind power, supplies insulation to the domestic market and is focused on exporting its products.