This does not include those who die without the cause of their cancers being investigated and revealed, nor those who long suffer from asbestos-related disease but eventually die from some other cause. Asbestos is the name given to a fibrous mineral found in ore-bearing rock mined from an open pit or an underground mine. The technical names are chrysotile, crocidolite, and amosite, respectively. Asbestos consists of fibers of various sizes, colors, and textures. The killer qualities of asbestos are associated with the length, diameter, and strength of the fibers.
Asbestos fibers are heat and fire resistant and extremely durable.
Because of these qualities, asbestos was used in over 3,500 building and consumer products. Most homes built or remodeled from 1950-1979 contain some asbestos material. Asbestos is still used in some products, but federal and state laws and regulations prohibit asbestos from being used in most indoor construction materials. Today asbestos fiber is used as a filler and reinforcer in asphalt and tar-based surface coatings. These products are then used as roof sealants, waterproof coatings, auto undercoatings, fireproofing for structural steel, and automotive repair of brake assemblies and clutch assemblies.