In the 1960s, a new miracle material was used called "Asbestos." Though, asbestos had been around for thousands of years, mass use of the product became popular in the 1960s. It was made up of non-flammable fibers and was very sturdy. Also, it was used in homes, businesses, and schools. Little did the people of the United States know that soon this wonderful material could turn out deadly and cancerous.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring group of minerals that can only be identified under a microscope. It is mined in much the same way that other minerals, such as iron, lead, and copper, are. Asbestos is composed of silicon, oxygen, hydrogen, and various other metal cations (positively charged ions).
There are many varieties of asbestos. The three most common are chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Chrysotile fibers are flexible and shaped like cylinders, and often arranged in bundle-like structures. Amosite and crocidolite fibers are like tiny needles.
Asbestos was discovered in 4000 BC. Then, asbestos was used for wicks in lamps and candles. The substance was known as "asbestos", meaning inextinguishable or unquenchable. .
The first commercial asbestos mine (a chrysotile mine) opened in Quebec, Canada, in the 1870's. Crocidolite asbestos was first mined in South Africa during the 1980's. Amosite also comes from Africa and was first mined in 1916. Unlike most minerals, which turn into dust particles when crushed, asbestos breaks up into fine fibers that are too small to be seen by the human eye. Often individual fibers are mixed up with a material that binds them together, producing asbestos containing material (ACM). After being broken up into tiny pieces, asbestos can become air-born and is easily inhaled. .
Asbestos appealed to manufacturers and builders for a variety of reasons. It is strong yet flexible, and it will not burn. It conducts electricity poorly and therefore, it is a great source of insulation.
