How has asbestos been used?

Asbestos fibers are thin and strong, making them ideal for use in building materials. They provide strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire.

Due to these valuable qualities, asbestos fibers were used in a wide range of applications, including:

1. Construction Materials: Asbestos was extensively used in many building materials, including:

- Roofing Shingles

- Siding Materials

- Floor Tiles

- Ceiling Tiles

- Cement Pipes and Sheets

2. Insulation: Asbestos was widely employed as an insulating material in buildings, ships, and vehicles due to its fire-resistant properties.

3. Fireproofing: Mixed with cement or other materials, asbestos was applied as a fireproofing material on structural steel in buildings.

4. Brake Linings: Asbestos fibers were used in brake linings and clutch facings because they could withstand high temperatures and reduce wear and tear.

5. Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos was utilized in gaskets and seals to prevent leaks in various industrial and automotive applications.

6. Textured Paints and Coatings: Some textured paints and coatings contained asbestos fibers to provide a unique texture and fire resistance.

7. Thermal Insulation: Asbestos was often used as thermal insulation in boilers, pipes, and appliances to reduce heat loss.

8. Electrical Insulation: Asbestos was used as insulation in electrical wires and cables due to its non-conductivity and fire-resistant properties.

9. Textiles and Clothing: Asbestos fibers were woven into heat-resistant fabrics and used in protective clothing, such as firefighters' suits.

10. Other Products: Asbestos was found in a variety of other products, including gaskets, filters, cement boards, and even some consumer products like ironing board covers.

Asbestos was not banned or regulated until several decades of scientific research linked it to serious health hazards like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Nowadays, asbestos is restricted or banned in many countries, and its use is tightly controlled to minimize exposure and protect public health.