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Difference Between Friable Asbestos & Nonfriable

Asbestos, a known carcinogen, was used for decades in everything from asphalt to fabrics to insulation. Asbestos comes in many forms and types, and each type poses various health risks. Generally speaking, asbestos-containing materials are placed in one of two categories: friable and nonfriable.

  1. Definitions

    • Friable asbestos is a material that can crumble easily and become airborne, and poses a more severe threat than nonfriable or encapsulated asbestos. Nonfriable asbestos is less likely to break into smaller pieces when manipulated with your hands.

    Health Risks

    • While both types of asbestos can cause serious health problems, friable asbestos is more dangerous because it is more easily broken down. When the material breaks down, the fibers of asbestos can be released. When inhaled, these fibers can cause cancer.

    Materials

    • Materials that contain friable asbestos can include pipe insulation and fireproofing. Nonfriable asbestos can be found in floor tiles, cements, and asphalts, among other things.

    Legal Implications

    • Legally speaking, the Environmental Protection Agency has declared that friable asbestos-containing materials are defined as containing more than 1 percent asbestos and can be pulverized by a person's hands.

    Changes Over Time

    • Designations like nonfriable are not guaranteed. Over time, even a material that has been designated as nonfriable can disintegrate, particularly if it has been impacted or damaged in some way.

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