Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once hailed for its wonders in the construction industry was found to be carcinogenic. Properties like fire-resistant, chemical-resistant, heat-resistant, abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, adsorption capacity, tensile strength, and flexural strength made asbestos a popular choice for construction, and consumer electronics. Unfortunately, it was too good to be true. Asbestos being a fibrous mineral, releases tiny fibers in the air when disturbed. These fibers when inhaled by human can get trapped inside their lungs causing scarring and inflammation and ultimately mesothelioma (lung cancer).
The six recognized types of asbestos are chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. Among these, the three most dangerous types are chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite.
Chrysotile
Chyrostile also known as ‘white asbestos’ is the most common type of asbestos. Almost 95% of asbestos used in the construction of buildings is chrysotile. Chrysotile fibers are typically white, curly, and soft. Chrysotile was commonly used in construction until the 1980s. If you are dealing with building materials installed before this period, there is a higher likelihood of them containing chrysotile asbestos.
Amosite
Amosite, commonly known as brown asbestos (they are brown), is a type of asbestos that gained popularity due to its properties like heat resistance and tensile strength. These fibers are straight and rigid compared to the curly and flexible chrysotile fibers. Amosite was widely used in various insulation materials like insulating pipes, boilers, and other industrial equipment.
Crocidolite
Crocidolite, commonly known as blue asbestos, is widely recognized as the most hazardous type of asbestos due to its thin and sharp fibers. The structure of crocidolite fibers contributes to its danger. The fibers are thin and can easily become airborne, posing a significant risk when inhaled. Crocidolite exhibits high resistance to acids, contributing to its durability. This property made it attractive for certain applications where resistance to chemical corrosion was crucial.
All these types of asbestos exhale fibers in the air that are carcinogenic and cause cancer. It’s important to be aware of all these types to be safe from the dangers of asbestos. However, how to identify the type of asbestos when the situation arrives?Well, asbestos can be correctly identified by an expert. One such expert in identifying and handling asbestos is RidAway. They are state-certified and licensed, they use industry safety protection, and guarantee 100% asbestos removal. The best part? They are now running a special offer! If asbestos insulation is removed, it will need to be replaced. Insulation replacement is usually expensive, but not with RidAway! Through our insulation Mass Save® partner, Neeeco, we'll take care of your asbestos insulation removal. For a limited time, we can insulate your home at 75-100% off the normal cost, giving you a safe, energy-efficient home that will continue to save you money in the form of lower energy bills for years to come.
Our asbestos removal service will restore your home's health and keep your family safe.
