azbest

Azbest, or asbestos, refers to a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals with a fibrous crystal habit. The fibers are heat resistant, chemically inert, and have high tensile strength, properties that historically made asbestos a common material in insulation, fireproofing, roofing, and other construction products.

The six minerals are chrysotile (the serpentine form) and the amphiboles crocidolite, amosite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. Chrysotile was the most widely used; amphibole forms are generally considered more hazardous because their fibers persist longer in the lungs.

Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis, pleural diseases, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. There is no known safe exposure level, and diseases often appear after long latency periods of 20 to 50 years. Occupations at risk include construction, shipbuilding, mining, and brake manufacturing.

Because of health risks, many countries have banned or restricted asbestos use since the late 20th century. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies asbestos as a Group 1 carcinogen. Removal or remediation typically requires licensed professionals, engineering controls, and proper disposal as hazardous waste.

Historically, major producers included Canada, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, and Brazil, with substantial use in Australia and other countries. Today, production is limited and tightly regulated, with ongoing efforts to manage legacy contamination in older buildings and sites.