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Asbestos an important insulating material; its varieties, properties and safe uses
1Building Materials & Technology Promotion Council (Ministry of Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation, Govt. of India), Core 5A, 1st Floor, India Habitat Centre, Lodi Road, New Delhi-3.
Indian Journal of Environmental Health
|September 25, 2003
Summary
Asbestos, a mineral with valuable industrial properties, is increasingly used in Asian-African developing nations despite global production declines. This paper details its characteristics, health risks, and product applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Health
- Industrial Chemistry
Background:
- Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, possesses unique physical and chemical properties making it valuable in industrial applications.
- Despite a global decline in asbestos production, its use is rising in developing Asian-African countries due to its commercial importance.
- The historical and ongoing utilization of asbestos spans products like cement, pipes, roofing, and insulation materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively describe the physical and chemical properties of asbestos fibers.
- To elucidate the significant health hazards associated with asbestos exposure.
- To explore the diverse applications and utilization of asbestos in various product developments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications and industry reports on asbestos.
- Analysis of physical and chemical properties based on established scientific data.
- Compilation of data on asbestos-related health risks and epidemiological studies.
- Survey of industrial applications and product development involving asbestos.
Main Results:
- Asbestos exhibits high tensile strength, heat resistance, and electrical insulation properties.
- Exposure to asbestos fibers is linked to severe respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
- The material's versatility allows its incorporation into a wide range of construction and insulation products.
Conclusions:
- Asbestos remains a material of significant commercial interest, particularly in developing regions.
- Understanding asbestos properties and health implications is crucial for safe handling and regulation.
- Further research into safer alternatives and effective risk management strategies is warranted.