The ability of asbestos to strengthen and bind as well as resist high temperatures, is what made it so useful.

The fibre offers protection against fire, corrosion, cold, acids, alkalis, electricity, noise, energy loss, and vibration It was known then as the ‘magic mineral’ because of these impressive properties.

Construction became a thriving industry particularly between the 1950’s and the 1980’s as factories emerged, large buildings were erected, and cities populated. Asbestos was seen as ideal for building materials in various form.

• Cement sheeting
• Some textured coatings
• Reinforced composite products
• Damp proof courses
• Roofing felts
• Rain water goods
• Vinyl floor tiles

 

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The properties of asbestos also made it ideal for fire proofing, heat protection, electrical resistance and different kinds of gasket materials.

It is important to remember that materials used for heat and fire protection were used in all building types up until 1985.

Generally, these products would contain blue and brown asbestos - and quite often, mixtures of all three.

The durability of certain types of asbestos also offered protection against corrosion, cold and vibration.

Please note that the following list is not exhaustive.

• Fire-resistant sprays
• Pipe lagging
• Fire resistant boards
• Fire resistant doors
• Electrical fuse assemblys
• Electrical arc shields
• CAF Gaskets
• Rope Gaskets
   

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Asbestos was used in building products because:

A: It absorbs UV light B: Of its organic properties C: It can bind and re-inforce materials D: It conducts electricity

Which type of asbestos has the best fire protection properties?

A: Green asbestos B: Blue asbestos C: Brown asbestos D: White asbestos