Asbestos in Industrial Products
Posted on: January 10, 2024 *Updated on: May 25, 2024Asbestos was historically used in a wide range of industrial and commercial products due to its heat resistance, insulation properties, and durability. Here’s an overview of some common products that contained asbestos:
- Adhesives: Asbestos was added to adhesives for its bonding strength and heat resistance, used in various applications including construction and automotive repair.
- Automotive Parts: Many components in vehicles, such as brake pads, clutches, and gaskets, contained asbestos due to its heat resistance and durability.
- Cement: Asbestos fibers were mixed into cement for construction materials to enhance strength and fire resistance.
- Construction Mastics & Gunning Mix: These are types of sealants and insulation materials used in construction, which often contained asbestos for durability and fireproofing.
- Diaphragms: In industrial processes, diaphragms made with asbestos were used for their resistance to heat and chemicals.
- Duct Connectors: Used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, these connectors often contained asbestos for insulation and fireproofing.
- Electrical Components: Asbestos was used in electrical insulation for its heat-resistant properties.
- Felt: Asbestos felt was used in roofing, flooring, and other applications for its fire-resistant and insulating properties.
- Fireproofing: Asbestos was a common ingredient in sprays and coatings for fireproofing buildings and structures.
- Gaskets: These are sealing materials used in various mechanical systems; asbestos was used for its durability and heat resistance.
- Insulation: Asbestos was widely used in thermal insulation for buildings, pipes, and machinery.
- Laboratory Equipment: Certain laboratory equipment, like heat-resistant gloves and mats, contained asbestos.
- Plastics: Asbestos was added to plastics to enhance their strength and fire resistance.
- Cement Sheets: These are building materials used for walls and roofs, containing asbestos for strength and fireproofing.
- Textiles: Asbestos was used in fire-resistant fabrics, curtains, and firefighter gear.
- Tiles: Floor and ceiling tiles often contained asbestos for durability and fire resistance.
- Vinyl Products: Asbestos was added to vinyl products like floor tiles and wallpaper for its strength and fireproofing qualities.
It’s important to note that due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including serious respiratory diseases, its use has been heavily regulated or banned in many countries. The handling of asbestos-containing materials generally requires specialized procedures and precautions to protect against inhaling asbestos fibers.