Asbestos essays

Asbestos essays Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. It is similar to other minerals in all ways except one: its crystal development. The crystal formation is in the form of long thin fibers. Over the years, it has had many uses. Primarily, it is used as an insulator or fire retardant. Due to its versatility and excellent insulating characteristics, asbestos can be found in many types of buildings. Although the government placed a moratorium on the production of most asbestos products in the early 1970s, installation of these products continued into the early 1980s. Although small exposure to asbestos is not dangerous, people who are exposed to asbestos on a consistent basis are at an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestos. Although asbestos is known to many people as a dangerous pollutant in its natural state, the mineral occurs throughout much of the planet. It is found in two-thirds of the rocks in the earths crust, and its fibers are released by erosion and carried by the wind. Therefore, depending on where you live, you are most likely inhaling between 10,000 and 15,000 fibers per day. Research shows that 99% of the worlds current asbestos production is chrysotile, a fiber which, when inhaled in small quantities, has no threat to a persons health. The controversy with asbestos concerns fibers and products that were used in the past, often improperly, and these fibers and products are prohibited today. Asbestos, being a versatile mineral, can be found in numerous places throughout the home because of its thermal insulation, fire protection, and strengthening of other materials. Insulating materials in ceilings, roofs, household appliances, pipe coverings, etc. all contained asbestos. Floor coverings such as vinyl tiles also contained asbestos because of the products strengthening ability. Household appliances contained asbestos for the use of its thermal insulation in ...