When we identify asbestos, we look at how easy it crumbles to determine whether it is friable or non-friable. Non-friable asbestos-containing materials, as opposed to a friable type, are actually quite difficult to crumble. Non-friable ACMs are still commonly found in production.
Because non-friable ACMs have a bonding agent that contains asbestos, there is a much lower risk of releasing these toxic minerals and posing danger to you. However, they still remain a threat—especially if they end up getting crushed or broken, such as during a remodeling project.
Friable asbestos crumbles easily and falls apart under slight pressure. Friable ACMs, which crumble more easily than a non-friable type, are now regulated due to their releasing of asbestos and associated risks. However, they can still be found today, as they were regularly added to materials prior to regulation.
Friable asbestos is often found in products like thermal insulation for pipes, insulation for water heaters, joint compounds, ceiling tiles, plasters, and wallboards. Since they can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure, they pose a great risk to those exposed.
It’s also important to note that non-friable ACMs can become friable if broken down or subjected to certain conditions.