Asbestos

CAS ID #: 1332-21-4

Affected Organ Systems: Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: NTP: Known to be a human carcinogen

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Chemical Classification: Inorganic substances

Summary: Asbestos is the name given to a group of six different fibrous minerals (amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite, and the fibrous varieties of tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite) that occur naturally in the environment. Asbestos minerals have separable long fibers that are strong and flexible enough to be spun and woven and are heat resistant. Because of these characteristics, asbestos has been used for a wide range of manufactured goods, mostly in building materials (roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, paper products, and asbestos cement products), friction products (automobile clutch, brake, and transmission parts), heat-resistant fabrics, packaging, gaskets, and coatings. Some vermiculite or talc products may contain asbestos.

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ATSDR’s public-facing website on asbestos and health.