Asbestos is a mineral that is highly used by various industries because of its properties. It is very durable and highly resistant; thus, it is used in construction, fashion garments, and automotive parts. Asbestos was given the nickname “miracle mineral” for its versatility. 

However, it was phased out because of the health risks it brings. Even though it has already been banned in most countries, there are still many areas that might contain asbestos. Awareness about this hazardous material is important, especially for those who have been exposed to asbestos-containing buildings or construction sites such as old buildings.

Here are known facts about asbestos that you should know, according to experts in asbestos removal in Kansas City.

Naturally-Occurring Mineral

Asbestos was the most popular material in the 20th century. Most people also assume that asbestos is a synthetic material when in truth, asbestos was mined as early as the Ancient Greece period. It was even noted that asbestos was used in ceramic pots during the Stone Age. 

Certain types of rocks form this naturally-occurring silicate material when exposed to hot water and high pressure. 

These fibrous crystals form veins underground, leading to the inclusion of contaminates. One good example of this contaminant is talc. This phenomenon is one of the reasons why talc is subjected to ongoing lawsuits. It was during the 19th century that asbestos was used in an industrial scale and became known to the public. Nowadays, asbestos removal in Kansas City is promoted in order to eliminate exposure to it.

Asbestos Fibers

Asbestos can no longer leave your body once it enters, unlike other toxins. Some materials that contain asbestos can easily become powdered with little pressure. These materials are also known as “friable materials.” Friable materials create fibers that can enter your lungs when inhaled. Some of these materials include those that are used for soundproofing, insulation, and fireproofing. 

However, there are also materials that are non-friable that might also contain asbestos. These materials are found in roofing felt and floor tiles. If you think that there are materials of these types in your home, it is recommended to seek experts in asbestos removal near you. 

In order to eliminate these materials, professionals in asbestos removal in Kansas City wear the appropriate personal protective equipment and respiratory protection. Because of possible inhalation of fibers, it is not a good practice to remove these materials on your own.

Undetected Medical Conditions

It takes approximately 20 to 50 years upon inhalation of asbestos for the symptoms to emerge. In some cases, the period of latency is as long as 60 years. Exposure to asbestos does not automatically develop into serious medical conditions. However, continuous exposure means that you are at greater risk. 

Some of the known asbestos-related diseases are mesothelioma and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a disease which is usually diagnosed in roughly 3,000 Americans each year. Meanwhile, asbestosis can cause scarring in your lungs. This disease could lead to difficulty in breathing, heart problems, and severe pain. People living in old buildings that contain asbestos have a high probability of developing these diseases. This is the reason why owners of such properties should seek professional asbestos removal services in Kansas City.  

Mining and Export

Despite its known effect on health, asbestos is still illegally used in some countries. Countries like Greece, India, China, Russia, and Italy make asbestos available as their commodity. These countries still utilize asbestos and market them at the same time. Due to its cheap price, it is still utilized in developing countries for construction. In the US, this carcinogenic material has been banned, and it has been encouraged to do asbestos removal in Kansas.

Conclusion

Knowing factual information about asbestos can help you deal with this harmful substance. Asbestos is dangerous, and handling it should be left to asbestos removal experts. Though many might be surprised by the extent of its availability, the facts given about its hazards should be a warning to those who could have been exposed. Properties containing this material should seek service in asbestos removal near them.