Visit us anytime at https://www.asbestosclaims.law/. What Is a Surfactant for Asbestos Removal?
In simplest terms, a surfactant is just a wetting agent (chemical) that increases a liquid’s ability to penetrate a specific target.
In regards to asbestos, a surfactant would be anything that increases the ability of a liquid (usually water) to penetrate and safely bind with any asbestos-containing material (ACM).
This technique is also referred to as “amending water.”
The reasons for using surfactant/amended water when dealing with asbestos are obvious: Because surfactant chemicals reduce the surface tension of the water, they increase its ability to penetrate the ACM and safely surround the asbestos fibers, which prevents the fibers from becoming airborne during handling.
Think of them as a giant asbestos-hugging glove.
Surfactants are advisable, but not legally required by Federal asbestos removal regulations. Seeing as even brief exposures to asbestos fibers can lead to long-term negative health defects, you might be surprised to discover that using a surfactant is not required by the Asbestos National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), which regulates industrial pollution, including asbestos removal procedures.
The EPA, however, STRONGLY advises employing surfactants.
And considering the dangers present when dealing with asbestos, this would seem to fall squarely in the “better safe than sorry” bucket.
For an in-depth look at surfactant procedures, please visit our blog.
Millions of people were harmed by asbestos exposure
Only carry out asbestos removal work if you are properly trained and have the right equipment.
Otherwise, leave the surfactants to the pros.
https://www.asbestosclaims.law/asbestos-blog/what-is-a-surfactant-for-asbestos-removal/
