Asbestos Product Exposure
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used in construction, manufacturing, automotive, and industrial applications due to its heat resistance, strength, and affordability. For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, asbestos-containing products were considered a “miracle material” and were incorporated into building materials, insulation, automotive parts, and fireproof textiles.
Despite its widespread use, asbestos poses severe health risks. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed—whether through damage, wear, or improper handling—microscopic fibers can become airborne. Once inhaled, these fibers can lodge in the lungs and other tissues, leading to devastating illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases often take decades to manifest, making asbestos exposure a silent and long-term threat.
While no one can definitively account for all its uses, it has been estimated that asbestos has been incorporated into well over 3,000 different products. These range from construction materials like cement and insulation to automotive components such as brake linings and clutch facings, as well as textiles, coatings, and even household items. The sheer breadth of its applications highlights its historical significance, though its widespread use has also contributed to significant health and environmental concerns over time.
Why Was Asbestos So Widely Used?
The widespread adoption of asbestos across industries can be attributed to its remarkable combination of physical, chemical, and economic properties. These characteristics made it an indispensable material in a variety of applications, particularly during the industrial boom of the 19th and 20th centuries. Below is an explanation of the key reasons for its extensive use:
Fire & Heat Resistance: Asbestos is naturally non-combustible and can withstand extremely high temperatures without degrading. This made it essential for applications requiring fireproofing and heat insulation. It was widely used in building insulation, fireproof curtains, and protective clothing for workers exposed to high heat, such as firefighters and foundry workers. Additionally, its ability to endure friction and heat made it a critical component in automotive brake pads, clutches, and other friction products, ensuring safety and reliability in high-stress environments.
Durability & Strength: Asbestos fibers are incredibly strong and resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for reinforcing materials. When mixed with cement, plastics, or asphalt, asbestos added structural integrity and longevity to products such as roofing shingles, cement pipes, and floor tiles. These reinforced materials were particularly valued in construction and infrastructure projects, where durability was a priority. Asbestos’ resistance to weathering, rot, and vermin further enhanced its appeal for outdoor and long-term applications.
Chemical Resistance: Asbestos is highly resistant to most chemicals, including acids and alkalis, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to corrosive substances was common. This property was especially important in industrial settings, where asbestos was used in gaskets, seals, and filtration systems to withstand harsh chemical conditions. Its chemical inertness also made it a preferred material for laboratory equipment, such as acid filters and stoppers.
Affordability and Abundance: Asbestos was not only effective but also economically viable. It was abundant in nature and relatively inexpensive to mine and process, making it accessible to manufacturers across the globe. This affordability allowed industries to produce cost-effective products while maintaining high performance. During the 20th century, the low cost of asbestos contributed to its widespread use in everything from large-scale industrial applications to everyday consumer goods
Versatility: Beyond its core properties, asbestos’ fibrous nature allowed it to be spun, woven, or mixed into a variety of forms, including textiles, paper, and composites. This versatility enabled its use in over 3,000 products, ranging from fireproof clothing and electrical insulation to roofing materials and automotive components. Its adaptability to different manufacturing processes and applications further solidified its role as a “miracle material” during its peak usage.
In summary, asbestos’ unique combination of fire resistance, strength, chemical inertness, affordability, and versatility made it a cornerstone of industrial and commercial innovation for decades. However, these same properties that made asbestos so valuable also contributed to its widespread presence in products, leaving a legacy of health risks that persists to this day.
Types of Asbestos Products
For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, asbestos was used in a wide range of products, particularly in construction, automotive, and industrial applications. Below are the major product categories known to contain asbestos, with examples of their typical uses.
Each category links to a detailed page providing information on common uses, health risks, and safe handling practices.
Adhesives, Coatings, Paints, and Sealants
Asbestos was a key ingredient in many adhesives, coatings, paints, and sealants due to its ability to withstand heat, fire, and chemical exposure. These products were widely used in industrial and construction settings.
Asbestos Paints: Asbestos-containing paints were formulated to provide fireproofing, insulation, and durability. These paints were often used in industrial and commercial applications where heat resistance and fireproofing were essential.
Example: Fireproof paints containing asbestos were commonly applied to steel beams and industrial equipment to prevent structural failure during fires. These paints also offered resistance to chemical corrosion, making them suitable for harsh environments. However, during application, sanding, or removal, asbestos fibers could be released into the air, posing health risks.
Asbestos Mastics: Asbestos mastics were used as adhesives and sealants in construction and industrial settings. These products provided strong bonding, water resistance, and heat tolerance, making them ideal for flooring, roofing, and other structural applications.
Example: Asbestos mastics were frequently used to adhere floor tiles or seal roofing materials. Their durability and resistance to heat and moisture made them a popular choice. However, cutting, scraping, or removing these mastics during renovations or demolitions could release hazardous asbestos fibers into the air.
Learn more about Asbestos Adhesives, Coatings, Paints, and Sealants.
Asbestos Textiles & Protective Gear
Asbestos was woven into textiles to create fire-resistant clothing and protective gear for workers in high-heat environments.
Asbestos Blankets: Blankets made from asbestos textiles were widely used to protect workers and surrounding areas from sparks, molten metal, and extreme heat. These blankets were highly durable and resistant to fire, making them an essential safety tool in industrial settings. They were also nonconductive and non-sparking, making them safe for use in many environments.
Example: Welders used asbestos welding blankets to shield themselves and nearby equipment from heat and sparks. However, over time, wear and tear on the blankets could release asbestos fibers into the air, posing significant health risks to workers.
Protective Clothing: Protective clothing made with asbestos was designed to shield workers from extreme heat, fire, and other hazardous conditions. Asbestos was woven into fabrics to create durable, fire-resistant garments for use in high-risk environments.
Example: Fireproof suits made from asbestos were commonly used by firefighters to protect against intense heat and flames during firefighting operations. While these suits provided critical protection, the constant wear and handling of asbestos-containing materials exposed users to airborne fibers, leading to significant long-term health risks.
Learn more about Asbestos Textiles & Protective Gear.
Asbestos Cement Products
Asbestos cement was a widely used material in construction due to its strength, fire resistance, and durability. It was commonly used in products such as pipes, roofing, and insulation boards, particularly in applications requiring resistance to weathering and corrosion.
Asbestos Pipes: Asbestos cement pipes were extensively used in municipal water and sewage systems for their corrosion resistance and long lifespan.
Example: Transite water pipes, a type of asbestos cement pipe, were favored for underground water distribution and sewer systems. However, activities such as cutting, drilling, or repairing these pipes released asbestos fibers into the air, endangering workers and nearby individuals.
Asbestos Gun Mix: Asbestos gun mix was a sprayable material used for fireproofing and insulation in industrial and construction settings. It was applied to structural steel and other surfaces to enhance fire resistance.
Example: A popular asbestos gun mix was “Monokote,” which was used in high-rise buildings and industrial facilities. While effective as a fireproofing material, the application process often released asbestos fibers into the air, posing significant health risks to workers.
Learn more about Asbestos Cement Products.
Asbestos Paper, Felt & Millboard
In the mid-20th century, asbestos paper, felt, and millboard became staples in the construction industry. These products were prized for their heat resistance, insulation properties, and affordability. But behind their widespread use was a dangerous truth: these materials often contained high concentrations of asbestos fibers that could become airborne when cut, torn, or deteriorated.
Asbestos Paper was often used as a lining in walls, ceilings, HVAC systems, and stoves.
Asbestos Felt was commonly installed under flooring and roofing for insulation and moisture protection.
Asbestos Millboard was used in high-heat environments like boiler rooms and industrial ovens.
Unlike some asbestos products bound in cement or resin, these materials are friable and release fibers easily when disturbed, making them especially hazardous.
Example: Johns-Manville and CertainTeed were major manufacturers of asbestos paper and felt, used under roof shingles or as insulation layers. When these products were cut or removed during renovations, they released hazardous asbestos fibers into the air.
Learn more about Asbestos Paper, Felt & Millboard
Construction & Building Materials
Asbestos was a key component in many construction materials due to its fire resistance, affordability, and durability. These materials were widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, many of which still contain asbestos today.
Drywall and Joint Compounds: Asbestos was commonly added to drywall and joint compounds to improve fire resistance and durability. These materials were used extensively in wall construction and finishing.
Example: USG (United States Gypsum) produced asbestos-containing joint compounds, such as “USG Joint Compound,” which were widely used in residential and commercial construction. Sanding or removing these compounds could release asbestos fibers, creating a health hazard.
Flooring Products: Asbestos was incorporated into flooring products to enhance durability and fire resistance. Asphalt-based and vinyl-based asbestos floor tiles were particularly popular in high-traffic areas.
Example: Asphalt asbestos floor tiles, such as those produced by Armstrong, were commonly used in schools, offices, and industrial facilities. Over time, wear and tear or improper removal of these tiles could release asbestos fibers, posing significant health risks.
Learn more about Asbestos Construction Materials.
Electrical & Friction Products
Asbestos’ heat resistance and durability made it a staple in electrical and friction products, particularly in automotive, industrial, and electrical applications.
Asbestos Electrical Products: Asbestos was widely used in electrical products due to its excellent insulating properties, fire resistance, and ability to maintain performance under high temperatures. These products were essential in both industrial and residential electrical systems.
Example: Asbestos-insulated wiring and switchboards were commonly used in buildings and industrial facilities to prevent electrical fires and ensure safe operation. Products like asbestos-aluminum insulated cables were specifically designed for circuits requiring high heat resistance. However, cutting or handling these materials during installation or maintenance could release asbestos fibers, posing health risks.
Asbestos Friction Products: Asbestos was a critical component in friction materials due to its ability to withstand the intense heat and wear generated by friction. These products were widely used in automotive, rail, and industrial machinery.
Example: Asbestos brake pads and clutches were extensively used in cars, trucks, and trains because they could endure the high temperatures produced during braking or operation. However, servicing or replacing these components often released asbestos fibers, putting mechanics and workers at risk of exposure.
Learn more about Asbestos Electrical and Friction Products.
Industrial Applications
Asbestos was a critical material in industrial settings, where its resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear made it indispensable for various applications.
Asbestos Gaskets: Crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos, was particularly valued for its exceptional chemical resistance and durability, making it a preferred material for industrial gaskets. These gaskets were used to create tight seals in high-pressure and high-temperature environments, ensuring the safe operation of industrial equipment.
Example: Crocidolite asbestos gaskets were commonly installed in pipelines carrying hot acids, alkalis, and steam, as well as in industrial boilers and chemical processing equipment. While effective, these gaskets degraded over time, and maintenance or replacement often released hazardous asbestos fibers into the air, posing risks to workers.
Asbestos Filters: Asbestos filters were widely used in industrial processes for their ability to withstand high temperatures and filter fine particulates. These filters were particularly effective in applications requiring the removal of impurities from liquids or gases.
Example: Asbestos filters were employed in chemical laboratories and industrial settings to filter acids, oils, and even beverages like wine and beer. Their fine filtration capabilities made them indispensable in these processes. However, handling or replacing these filters could release asbestos fibers, creating potential health hazards for workers.
Learn more about the industrial products made with asbestos.
Insulation & Fireproofing Materials
Asbestos was a go-to material for insulation and fireproofing due to its ability to contain heat and prevent fires. It was used in both residential and industrial settings.
Pipe Covering: Asbestos-containing pipe insulation was widely used in industrial and commercial settings for its excellent thermal insulation properties. It was designed to insulate pipes carrying steam, hot water, or other high-temperature substances, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency.
Example: Kaylo pipe coverings were commonly installed in power plants, factories, and shipyards to insulate steam pipes and other high-temperature systems. However, cutting or removing these coverings during maintenance often released asbestos fibers, endangering workers.
Fireproofing Sprays: Fireproofing sprays containing asbestos were widely used to protect structural steel and other surfaces in buildings. These sprays provided both fire resistance and thermal insulation, making them essential in industrial and commercial construction.
Example: Limpet spray was extensively used in high-rise buildings and industrial facilities to protect steel structures from fire damage. Over time, the material could become friable, and disturbances during renovations or demolitions released asbestos fibers into the air, posing significant health risks.
Learn more about insulation and fireproofing materials made with asbestos.
Raw Asbestos Fiber
Before being incorporated into products, raw asbestos fibers were mined, processed, and classified into various grades based on their length and quality. This stage of production was particularly hazardous due to the release of airborne fibers, which posed significant health risks to workers and nearby communities.
Example: Chrysotile asbestos, the most commonly used type, was processed for use in cement, textiles, and insulation. However, the handling and processing of raw fibers generated hazardous dust, contributing to widespread occupational exposure.
Uses of Asbestos Fiber Grades
The length and quality of asbestos fibers determine their suitability for specific applications:
Long Fibers (Spinning Grades): Used in weaving textiles, such as cloth, tape, and rope, as well as in high-strength applications like gaskets and packings.
Medium-Length Fibers: Commonly used in asbestos-cement products, including underground pipes, roofing materials, and construction sheathing.
Short Fibers: Utilized in products requiring less tensile strength, such as insulation cements, molded items, and fillers.
Chrysotile asbestos, the most commonly used type, was processed for a wide range of applications, including cement, textiles, and insulation. Its versatility made it a staple in industrial and construction materials. However, the processing of chrysotile fibers released significant amounts of hazardous dust, contributing to the global asbestos exposure crisis.
Learn more about raw asbestos fibers.
Fascinating Examples of Asbestos Use
Asbestos’s versatility led to some surprising and high-profile applications:
The Manhattan Project and Nuclear Energy: During World War II, asbestos played a critical role in the development of atomic weapons and the advancement of nuclear energy. Its heat resistance and insulating properties made it indispensable for protecting scientists and engineers from extreme heat, radiation, and potential explosions. Asbestos insulation was applied to the cooling systems of nuclear reactors at facilities like Oak Ridge and Hanford, ensuring safe operation under intense conditions. Additionally, asbestos was used in protective clothing for workers handling radioactive materials, shielding them from high temperatures and corrosive substances.
Moon and Space Exploration: NASA relied on asbestos during the Apollo program to protect astronauts from the extreme heat of re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. Asbestos-based materials were used in the construction of the Apollo Command Module’s heat shield, which endured temperatures exceeding 5,000°F during re-entry. Asbestos-based materials were also used in the insulation of space shuttle components to protect against extreme temperatures during launch and re-entry.
Wine and Beer Filtration: Until the health risks of asbestos became widely recognized, its fibers were commonly used in the filtration of wine, beer, and other beverages. The fine structure and chemical resistance of asbestos made it highly effective for removing impurities and clarifying liquids. However, concerns arose when asbestos fibers were detected in the filtered beverages, raising questions about potential health risks from ingestion. This practice was eventually discontinued as safer alternatives were developed.
Medical Blood Filtration: In the medical field, asbestos was once used in blood filtration systems to remove impurities. Its inert and porous properties made it an effective material for processing blood safely. However, as the dangers of asbestos exposure became evident, its use in medical applications was phased out. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of asbestos filters in the preparation of parenteral drugs and biologics in 1975, marking a significant step toward eliminating asbestos from medical practices.
Who Was Exposed to Asbestos Products?
Millions of workers, consumers, and family members were exposed to asbestos through the widespread use of asbestos-containing products. Whether on the job, at home, or through indirect exposure, the health risks associated with asbestos products impacted countless lives. Below is an overview of those most at risk.
Occupational Exposure: Workers who directly handled asbestos-containing products or performed tasks that disturbed these materials were at the greatest risk. Jobs involving construction, shipbuilding, automotive repair, and industrial manufacturing often required cutting, sanding, drilling, or installing asbestos products, releasing microscopic fibers into the air.
Learn more about occupations exposed to asbestos.
Industry-Specific Risks: Certain industries relied heavily on asbestos products due to their heat resistance, durability, and affordability. Workers in industries like construction, aerospace, maritime, and petrochemical plants were regularly exposed to asbestos fibers during manufacturing, maintenance, and repair tasks.
Learn more about the industrial use of asbestos.
Take-Home Exposure: Family members of workers were often exposed to asbestos brought home on clothing, tools, and hair—a phenomenon known as take-home exposure. This secondary exposure has caused asbestos-related diseases in spouses, children, and others who shared a household with asbestos workers.
Learn more about how asbestos could have been inadvertently brought into the home.
Asbestos Exposure from Products and Its Devastating Health Effects
Exposure to asbestos-containing products poses serious health risks, often with life-altering or fatal consequences. Many everyday items—such as insulation, flooring, automotive parts, and household appliances—contained asbestos for decades. When these products were used, damaged, or deteriorated over time, they released asbestos fibers into the air, where they could be inhaled or ingested. Because asbestos-related diseases develop slowly, symptoms may not appear for decades after exposure. Below are the major illnesses linked to asbestos exposure through product use:
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium). Mesothelioma is caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure, particularly from products like insulation, cement, and pipe coverings.
Lung Cancer: Asbestos is a well-documented cause of lung cancer, with the risk increasing significantly with prolonged exposure to asbestos-containing building materials, gaskets, and brake pads. Smokers with asbestos exposure face an even higher risk.
Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leading to lung scarring. Asbestosis was common among individuals who worked with asbestos-containing insulation, roofing materials, and fireproof coatings.
Throat Cancer (Laryngeal and Pharyngeal Cancer): Exposure to asbestos fibers in household or industrial products can lead to cancers of the larynx (voice box) and pharynx (throat). This risk was especially high for those handling asbestos textiles, tiles, and pipe insulation.
Stomach Cancer: Asbestos fibers from contaminated drinking water or airborne dust from degraded asbestos products can lead to stomach cancer. This risk was heightened for individuals exposed to asbestos in cement pipes, ceiling tiles, and old household appliances.
Colon Cancer (Colorectal Cancer): Colon cancer has been linked to asbestos exposure through the ingestion of asbestos fibers released from construction materials, household items, and industrial products.
Ovarian Cancer: Studies have shown that asbestos exposure can increase the risk of ovarian cancer, particularly through the use of talcum powder contaminated with asbestos fibers. Women exposed in occupational settings or through secondary exposure (such as laundering contaminated work clothes) may also be at risk.
Even individuals who never worked with asbestos directly can develop these diseases through everyday product use. Renovating old homes, repairing car brakes, or handling vintage consumer goods can release asbestos fibers into the air. Because many of these products were widely used in homes and workplaces, millions of people unknowingly faced exposure.
Our firm offers free asbestos health tests for individuals who may have been exposed to asbestos-containing products. If you or a loved one suspect past exposure, contact us to learn more about your health risks.
Compensation Options for Those Exposed to Asbestos-Containing Products
If you or a loved one has developed an asbestos-related illness due to exposure from asbestos-containing products, you may be entitled to compensation. Many manufacturers knew the risks of asbestos but continued to sell dangerous products, putting workers, consumers, and families at risk. Our legal team is committed to helping those affected by asbestos exposure secure the financial support they deserve.
There are three major avenues of recovery we can explore for your family:
Asbestos Trust Claims: Many companies that manufactured asbestos-containing products were forced to establish trust funds to compensate victims. These claims allow individuals exposed through everyday product use—such as home renovations, auto repairs, or consumer goods—to seek compensation without going to court. If you were harmed by an asbestos-containing product, you may qualify for a trust claim. Learn more about asbestos trust claims and how to file.
Asbestos Lawsuits: Manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing products can be held legally responsible for the harm they caused. If your exposure came from asbestos insulation, floor tiles, brakes, cement, or other materials, you may be able to file a lawsuit for compensation. Legal claims can cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Learn more about asbestos lawsuits and your legal rights.
Asbestos Disability Claims: Workers diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease after exposure to asbestos-containing products may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Veterans who encountered asbestos in military equipment, shipbuilding materials, or base housing can also file for VA disability benefits. If asbestos exposure through consumer or workplace products led to your illness, you may have options for additional financial support. Learn more about filing asbestos disability claims.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness due to product exposure, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Our law firm has helped thousands of families hold asbestos manufacturers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. There are no upfront costs to work with us—our clients never pay out of pocket. Take the first step by contacting us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call 1-833-4-Asbestos to get started today. Justice for your family is just a phone call away.