asbesti

Asbesti is a term used in several languages to refer to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals with fibrous crystals. In English, asbestos is the common term; in other languages, asbesti can appear as a variant form or plural.

Asbestos comprises six regulated mineral groups: chrysotile (serpentine) and the amphibole family, which includes amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite.

Historically, asbestos was widely used for its heat resistance and insulating properties in construction, shipbuilding, brake linings, and other industrial materials. The fibrous crystals can be dispersed into the air when materials are damaged or disturbed, creating inhalation hazards.

Health effects from inhalation include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma; latency periods can be several decades. Health risks depend on exposure level and duration, and many countries regulate exposure limits and require monitoring and protective measures.

Regulation and remediation vary by jurisdiction, but many nations have banned or restricted use and import of asbestos, and require specialized removal and disposal procedures to prevent fiber release. Ongoing public health guidelines address legacy asbestos exposure in buildings and infrastructure, and abatement programs aim to reduce exposure in existing facilities.