Chemical

The chemical industry has long been a cornerstone of modern industrial development, producing essential materials and compounds for a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to industrial chemicals. This sector often involves processes that operate under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, corrosive environments, and exposure to volatile substances. To ensure the safety and efficiency of operations, the industry has historically relied on materials that can withstand these harsh conditions while maintaining structural integrity and performance. Among these materials, asbestos played a significant role for much of the 20th century, finding applications in various components and equipment used in chemical manufacturing and processing.

Why Asbestos Was Used in the Chemical Industry

Asbestos was widely used in the chemical industry due to its unique combination of properties that made it ideal for demanding environments. Its exceptional resistance to heat, fire, and chemical corrosion allowed it to be used in critical applications such as gaskets, seals, and insulation for pipes, boilers, and reactors. Asbestos-based materials were also employed in filtration systems, where their durability and resistance to chemical degradation were essential for handling aggressive substances. Additionally, asbestos was used in protective linings for storage tanks and chemical containers, ensuring the safe containment of hazardous materials. These properties, combined with its affordability and availability, made asbestos a material of choice in the chemical industry until its health risks became widely recognized and safer alternatives were developed.

Types of Asbestos Used in the Industry

The chemical industry utilized several types of asbestos fibers, each selected for its unique properties that met the demanding requirements of chemical processing environments:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most commonly used type of asbestos in the chemical industry. Its flexibility, chemical resistance, and ability to be woven into various forms made it ideal for applications such as gaskets, seals, and packing materials. These components were essential in preventing leaks and ensuring the safe handling of corrosive chemicals in pipelines and equipment.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Amosite was occasionally used in the chemical industry, particularly in applications requiring superior heat resistance and strength. It was employed in insulation materials for high-temperature chemical processing equipment, where durability under extreme conditions was critical.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was used in specialized chemical industry applications due to its exceptional resistance to acids and other corrosive substances. It was often found in gaskets and seals used in environments where chemical exposure was particularly severe.

Common Types of Asbestos Products in the Chemical Industry

The chemical industry relied heavily on asbestos for its exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, and corrosion. These properties made asbestos an ideal material for various applications in chemical processing and manufacturing environments. Common types of asbestos products used in the chemical industry include:

Insulation Materials: Asbestos was a primary material for thermal insulation in chemical plants, applied to reactors, distillation columns, heat exchangers, boilers, and pipelines to maintain process temperatures, prevent heat loss, and protect workers from burns. Its exceptional thermal resistance and durability in corrosive environments made it an economical choice. Asbestos insulation, including pipe lagging and block insulation, was particularly valued in high-temperature steam and chemical processes. However, over time, the friable nature of asbestos insulation posed significant health risks as fibers could become airborne during maintenance or damage.

Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos gaskets and seals were widely used in flanges, valves, and pumps to ensure leak-proof connections in high-pressure and high-temperature chemical processing systems. The material’s excellent compressibility and resilience allowed it to create tight seals while also resisting chemical corrosion. Spiral-wound asbestos gaskets were common in high-pressure pipelines, while flat asbestos sheet gaskets were used in chemical storage tanks and reactors. Modern non-asbestos gaskets, such as those made from PTFE, graphite, or aramid fibers, have since replaced asbestos gaskets due to health concerns.

Asbestos Filters: In chemical laboratories and industrial processes, asbestos filters were used to filter acids, bases, and other corrosive substances. These filters provided a reliable medium for separating impurities from chemical solutions, offering resistance to both chemical degradation and high temperatures. Asbestos filter pads were frequently used in laboratory filtration systems, while large-scale industrial filters aided in chemical refining and purification. However, the risk of asbestos fiber contamination led to the discontinuation of asbestos filters in favor of safer alternatives.

Asbestos Cement Products: Asbestos cement was a durable and chemical-resistant material used for constructing pipes, storage tanks, ducts, and other infrastructure in chemical plants. The addition of asbestos fibers to cement improved its tensile strength, resistance to heat and chemicals, and overall longevity, making it ideal for handling aggressive substances. Asbestos-cement pipes were commonly used for transporting corrosive liquids, while storage tanks and ducts provided containment for chemical processing. Today, fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) and other corrosion-resistant materials have replaced asbestos cement in most industrial applications.

Asbestos Textiles: Asbestos textiles, including cloth, tape, and rope, were widely used for thermal and electrical insulation in chemical plants. These flexible materials were wrapped around pipes, covered equipment, and even used to create protective clothing for workers handling high-temperature or hazardous materials. The heat resistance and adaptability of asbestos textiles made them ideal for complex shapes and applications requiring fireproofing. However, the release of asbestos fibers from worn or damaged textiles posed serious health risks.

Asbestos Millboard and Paper: Lightweight yet highly heat-resistant, asbestos millboard and paper were used as protective linings in chemical equipment such as furnaces and ovens. These materials provided thermal insulation and protected against chemical corrosion while being easy to install. Their practicality made them a popular choice in high-temperature applications, but as with other asbestos-based products, health concerns eventually led to their replacement with non-asbestos alternatives.

Asbestos-Reinforced Plastics: To improve mechanical strength and resistance to heat and chemicals, asbestos fibers were incorporated into plastics used in pump housings, valve bodies, and other equipment exposed to harsh chemical conditions. The reinforcement provided by asbestos fibers enhanced the durability and performance of these plastics, making them suitable for demanding industrial applications. However, the risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to the development of alternative reinforced plastics.

Asbestos Protective Clothing: Workers in chemical plants often wore asbestos-containing protective clothing to shield themselves from high temperatures and hazardous chemicals. Gloves, aprons, and full-body suits made with asbestos provided fireproof and heat-resistant protection while resisting chemical degradation. Asbestos blankets were also used for emergency fire protection. Despite their effectiveness, the dangers of asbestos exposure led to the discontinuation of asbestos-based protective gear in favor of modern fire-resistant fabrics.

Asbestos Coatings and Paints: Asbestos was incorporated into coatings and paints to enhance fireproofing and chemical resistance in chemical plants. These coatings were applied to equipment, walls, and structural components to protect against fire and exposure to aggressive chemicals. The addition of asbestos improved durability, making these coatings a preferred choice for industrial applications. However, as asbestos-related health risks became widely recognized, safer fireproofing and protective coatings replaced asbestos-based products.

Companies That Manufactured Asbestos Products

Several companies were instrumental in manufacturing asbestos-containing products for the chemical industry, leveraging the mineral’s unique properties such as heat resistance, chemical inertness, and durability. These companies played a significant role in supplying materials that were widely used in chemical processing and industrial applications, though their operations have since been scrutinized due to the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

The Johns-Manville Corporation was a leading manufacturer of asbestos products, including insulation, gaskets, and cement materials specifically designed for chemical processing applications. Founded in 1858, the company became a pioneer in the asbestos industry, producing a wide range of products that served essential needs across various industries, including the chemical sector. Johns-Manville’s asbestos insulation and cement products were particularly valued for their ability to withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments, making them indispensable in chemical plants. However, the company faced significant legal and financial challenges as the health hazards of asbestos became widely recognized, leading to its eventual bankruptcy and reorganization in the 1980s .

The Keasbey & Mattison Company was another prominent player in the asbestos industry, producing a variety of asbestos-based products such as gaskets, insulation materials, and cement. These products were widely used in chemical plants due to their ability to resist chemical reactions and maintain structural integrity under extreme conditions. The company, originally based in Ambler, Pennsylvania, was a major supplier of asbestos materials during the early to mid-20th century. However, like many other asbestos manufacturers, Keasbey & Mattison faced significant legal and reputational issues as the dangers of asbestos exposure became evident.

Turner & Newall, Ltd., a British company, was well-known for its asbestos cement products and insulation materials, which were extensively used in chemical environments. The company operated globally and was a major supplier of asbestos products for industrial applications, including chemical processing. Turner & Newall’s asbestos cement products were particularly popular for their durability and resistance to chemical corrosion. Despite its prominence in the industry, the company eventually faced widespread litigation and financial difficulties due to the health risks associated with its products .

Eagle-Picher Industries specialized in manufacturing asbestos insulation and gaskets for industrial and chemical applications. The company’s products were widely used in chemical plants to insulate pipes and equipment, as well as to create seals that could withstand high temperatures and corrosive substances. Eagle-Picher’s reliance on asbestos in its products led to significant legal challenges and financial liabilities as the health risks of asbestos exposure became undeniable .

Garlock Sealing Technologies was a major producer of asbestos-based gaskets and seals, which were essential components in chemical processing equipment. These products were designed to provide reliable sealing in high-pressure and high-temperature environments, making them indispensable in the chemical industry. However, as the health hazards of asbestos became more widely understood, Garlock faced numerous lawsuits and eventually shifted to manufacturing non-asbestos alternatives.

In addition to these companies, other notable manufacturers of asbestos products for the chemical industry include Philip Carey Manufacturing Co., which produced asbestos insulation and cement products, and Flintkote Company, known for its asbestos-based construction and industrial materials. Both companies were significant players in the asbestos industry and supplied materials to chemical plants and other industrial facilities. Like their counterparts, they faced substantial legal and financial repercussions as the dangers of asbestos exposure became apparent .

The chemical industry’s reliance on asbestos was driven by the mineral’s exceptional properties, which made it ideal for use in harsh industrial environments. However, the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, have led to the widespread discontinuation of asbestos products. Today, safer alternatives have replaced asbestos in chemical processing and manufacturing, marking a significant shift in industrial practices.

Chemical Industry Workers are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Chemical industry workers, particularly those involved in the manufacturing, maintenance, and operation of chemical plants, face a significant risk of asbestos exposure. Historically, asbestos was widely used in the chemical industry due to its exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, and corrosion. It was commonly found in insulation for pipes, boilers, and reactors, as well as in gaskets, packing materials, and protective equipment. However, the handling and disturbance of asbestos-containing materials in chemical plants often released hazardous fibers into the air, putting workers at risk. Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that asbestos exposure can lead to the following health complications:

Mesothelioma
Chemical industry workers are at an elevated risk of developing mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. This risk arises from inhaling airborne asbestos fibers released during the maintenance or repair of asbestos-insulated equipment, such as pipes and boilers, which were prevalent in chemical plants .

Lung Cancer
The repair and operation of chemical plant equipment often involved disturbing asbestos-containing insulation and gaskets. This disturbance released asbestos fibers into the air, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer for workers who inhaled them. The lack of adequate protective measures in earlier decades left many workers vulnerable to this serious health risk .

Throat Cancer
Inhalation of asbestos fibers during tasks such as cutting or replacing asbestos-containing gaskets and insulation can lead to cancers of the larynx and pharynx. Poor ventilation and insufficient protective equipment in the past further exacerbated this risk for chemical industry workers .

Stomach Cancer
Workers could inadvertently ingest asbestos fibers, particularly if they ate or drank in contaminated areas or failed to follow proper hygiene practices. This exposure has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer over time. The handling of asbestos-containing materials in chemical plants contributed to this risk .

Colon Cancer
Known as colorectal cancer, this condition may result from ingesting asbestos fibers. Chemical industry workers were frequently exposed to airborne fibers, which could settle on surfaces and contaminate food or drinks, contributing to the development of this type of cancer .

Asbestosis
Asbestosis, a chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, is a significant risk for chemical industry workers. The disease results in scarring of lung tissue, leading to severe breathing difficulties and reduced lung function. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers during tasks such as insulation removal or equipment maintenance is the primary cause of this condition .

Chemical industry workers played a vital role in producing and maintaining materials essential for industrial and commercial applications. However, the nature of their work placed them at significant risk of asbestos exposure. Modern safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and regular health monitoring, are essential to protect workers from the long-term health effects of asbestos exposure.

Learn more about the diseases asbestos can cause.

Asbestos Exposure in the Chemical Industry

In the chemical industry, asbestos was widely used due to its resistance to heat, chemicals, and corrosion. Workers were exposed to asbestos during various tasks, particularly in the construction, maintenance, and operation of chemical plants. One of the primary sources of exposure was the use of asbestos-containing insulation materials to line pipes, boilers, reactors, and other high-temperature equipment. Installing, cutting, or repairing this insulation often released asbestos fibers into the air.

Maintenance workers were frequently exposed while removing or replacing worn-out asbestos insulation during routine plant upkeep or emergency repairs. Tasks such as scraping, sanding, or cutting asbestos-containing materials generated significant amounts of airborne fibers. Additionally, asbestos was used in gaskets, seals, and packing materials for chemical processing equipment. Workers handling or replacing these components, especially during equipment disassembly, were at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers.

Another source of exposure came from asbestos cement products, which were used to construct chemical storage tanks, ducts, and other plant infrastructure. Cutting or drilling into these materials during installation or repairs released hazardous fibers into the environment. Even workers not directly involved in these tasks, such as operators or support staff, could be exposed to asbestos through secondary contamination in the plant.

The risk of take-home exposure was a significant concern in the chemical industry. Workers often carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, shoes, and personal items, unknowingly exposing their family members to this hazardous material. Activities such as shaking out or laundering contaminated work clothes could release asbestos fibers into the home environment, putting family members at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. This highlights the far-reaching impact of asbestos exposure beyond the confines of the workplace.

Our Law Firm Assists Chemical Industry Workers with Asbestos-Related Conditions

Chemical industry workers frequently encountered asbestos in manufacturing plants, refineries, and industrial facilities where it was used for insulation, fireproofing, and protective coatings on equipment and pipelines. Exposure to asbestos in these environments has led many workers to develop serious asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, you may be entitled to compensation. Our law firm is committed to helping affected workers and their families navigate the legal process, providing comprehensive support in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims
Many chemical companies and manufacturers that used asbestos-containing materials have established trust funds to compensate workers diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases. Filing a claim with these trusts does not require going to court and can provide financial relief for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. Our legal team can assist in determining eligibility and securing the maximum compensation available.

Asbestos Lawsuits
Manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing products used in the chemical industry can be held accountable through legal action. Workers exposed to asbestos in chemical plants, refineries, and industrial sites may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Compensation from these lawsuits can help cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of chemical industry workers.

Asbestos Disability Claims
Workers diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions may qualify for Social Security disability benefits if their illness prevents them from working. Additionally, veterans who were exposed to asbestos while working in military-related chemical production or defense manufacturing may be eligible for veterans’ disability benefits. These claims provide essential financial support for affected individuals and their families.