What is Asbestos: Defined

Asbestos is the name for naturally occurring fiber-like minerals. These minerals have been mined and used in different industries since the late 1800s.

What is Asbestos: Uses

Asbestos is usually broken into flexible fibers that can be woven together. It does not conduct heat and electricity very well, so it has mostly been used as an insulator. Asbestos can be used in acoustic insulation, thermal insulation, fire proofing materials, and other building materials, like roofing and flooring.

What is Asbestos: Types

There are six different types of asbestos, but only four types have been used commercially. These include chrysotile, amosite, anthophyllite, and crocidolite. You can read more about these in the Types of Asbestos section of this website.

What is Asbestos: Dangers

Unfortunately, asbestos fibers tend to break easily and form dust. These fibers and dust can be breathed in or swallowed and can stick to clothing. Breathing or swallowing these fibers may result in mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

What is Asbestos: Legal Issues

The dangers of asbestos have been known since the early 20^th Century. Asbestos exposure has injured an entire generation of workers. Still, asbestos has not been completely banned in the United States.