History

Asbestos has been around in one form or another for a long time.  Even the ancient Greeks knew of its properties and made cloth from its fibers.  The use of asbestos did not become prevalent until large deposits were found in the 1860's and 1870's.  As the versatile qualities of asbestos became known and the world became more industrialized, asbestos was incorporated into an ever growing number of products.  Development of asbestos products peaked in the 1970's as the increasing health risks became known.  Most buildings built before 1980 are believed to contain some form of asbestos. 

Characteristics

Asbestos was used in building and manufacturing because of its unique combination of characteristics:

• Insulating qualities
• Flexibility
• Tensile strength
• Resistance to chemical corrosion
• Sound absorption

Where Asbestos is Found

• Thermal insulating materials
• Fireproofing materials
• Acoustic soundproofing
• Floor Tiles
• Sheetrock and drywall
• Roofing
• Coatings applied to ceilings and walls

Diseases

• Lung cancer (risk is greatly increased when combined with smoking)
• Asbestosis - scarring of the lungs caused by fibers
• Mesothelioma - cancer of the pleural lining of the lung