Asbestos Resource
Mesothelioma Help Now is a comprehensive mesothelioma resource with up-to-date information that explains what asbestos is, offers a history of the mineral, describes asbestos cancers such as mesothelioma, and more.
What is Asbestos?
The word “asbestos” originates from the Greek, meaning “unquenchable.” There are six naturally-occurring fibrous forms of asbestos, which are mineral silicates. Despite its fibrous, pliable nature, asbestos is a rock with a high tensile strength and the qualities of being impervious to fire, water, and corrosion.
Significant deposits can be found in rock formations in Canada, Russia, the United States, and South Africa.
Asbestos Uses
Asbestos can be used in acoustic insulation, thermal insulation, fire-proofing materials, and other building materials such as roofing and flooring. Its fibers can be woven into textiles or added to compounds such as adhesives, mastics, cements, tile, and more to increase the tensile strength of the compound.
Types of Asbestos
There are six types of asbestos, but only a few have been used commercially. These include:
- Chrysotile or “white asbestos,” the most commonly used type historically. It is the only type mined on a large scale today.
- Amosite or “brown” asbestos, which is the second most prevalent type and considered one of the most hazardous forms.
- Crocidolite or “blue” asbestos, which is considered the most hazardous of the silicates and was used primarily in asbestos-cement products.
Dangers of Asbestos
Exposure to asbestos fibers has been definitively linked to several asbestos-related diseases including asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Asbestos Awareness
In recognition of the inaugural National Asbestos Awareness Week, Sokolove Law’s Ban Asbestos Now (BAN!) advocacy program began. The program strives to start a movement that aims to increase awareness of the problem while supporting the larger fight against cancer. Visit the BAN! website to find out how you can help.
If you have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, contact an asbestos lawyer at Sokolove Law today.