ABSTRACT
Asbestos is a generic term referring to the unusual crystallization of a group of minerals, inorganic chemicals, with long, extremely strong fibers. Indeed, asbestos is a hazardous fiber. It is clear that it is a human carcinogen and not one of those chemicals for which the carcinogenicity is inferred from animal studies. With the unleashing of technology during the industrial revolution and the need to insulate hot engines, boilers, and piping, a large number of new applications were found for asbestos. It was not until the early 1930s, however, that widespread use of asbestos in homes, schools, and office buildings began. Nevertheless, and notwithstanding, asbestos might well have been considered a "miracle" fiber. Patently, asbestos in schools, homes, and office buildings quite literally saved hundreds of thousands of lives from fiery deaths. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
