Which type of insulation can withstand temperatures up to 650°C?

The correct answer is calcium silicate block because it is specifically designed to endure high temperatures, making it suitable for insulation in applications exposed to extreme heat. Calcium silicate insulation can effectively withstand temperatures up to 650°C, making it ideal for high-temperature industrial processes, such as in power plants, boilers, and furnaces. This material maintains its structural integrity and insulating properties even at elevated temperatures, which is crucial for safety and efficiency in thermal management applications.

The other options, while also serving insulation purposes, do not reach the same temperature threshold. Mineral wool base blocks are generally rated for lower temperatures and are commonly used in insulation applications that require fire resistance rather than extreme heat stability. Ceramic fibre can withstand high temperatures as well, but typically, it is designed for applications that require different performance characteristics rather than those specifically quantified for sustained thermal insulation. High temperature plastic is not suitable for temperatures even close to 650°C, as it generally breaks down at much lower temperatures.