Asbestos was once named the miracle mineral because of its many positive properties. Asbestos resists heat, chemicals, friction and even exhibits sound deadening properties. Since it was readily available, it was inexpensive. Thousands of different products containing asbestos have been manufactured over the years. Unfortunately, the old adage about being too good to be true applies to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers can lead to a number of diseases including asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
The process of turning raw asbestos into a finished product involves milling and machining the mineral prior to mixing it with the right binders and other materials. This process breaks the crystalline fibers into smaller and smaller pieces to the point where, if they become airborne may be inhaled. Inhaled asbestos fibers can lodge in the lungs and cause scarring or cancers, both of which can be fatal. Inhalation, or breathing the fibers into the lungs, is the major source of exposure. Ingestion, swallowing asbestos, is generally a secondary exposure.