Insulating Cement

Insulating Cement and Asbestos

Asbestos was long thought to be one of the best and most versatile construction materials. It was inexpensive, easy to work with, and incredibly sturdy. Additionally, it was able to withstand very high temperatures, and was even useful for containing and stopping the spread of fire. Manufactures used the naturally occurring mineral as a key ingredient in a variety of products like plaster, wallboards and bricks.

Similarly, cement is looked upon as being an exemplary building block for the construction industry. It is strong, durable, and a major component in all types of concrete. Furthermore, it provides a good looking and professional finish for the outer coating of all concrete based products.

When asbestos and cement were combined, the result was extraordinary. Insulating Cement contained a large amount of asbestos, which made it even stronger and more resistant to heat. It was used in a variety of settings, primarily in work places that produced high temperatures such as oil refineries, power plants, chemical plants and aluminum plants.

Still a Threat Today

Although the mixture of asbestos and cement was built to last, the process of combining the two had to come to an end. This happened during the 1970's when scientists made a startling discovery that would change the face of the manufacturing industry: asbestos was found to be poisonous. Exposure to asbestos is one of the main causes of chronic respiratory conditions like asbestosis, and a type of cancer known as mesothelioma (including pericardial mesothelioma). There is no cure for mesothelioma cancer. View our mesothelioma information page to learn more about the disease.

Insulating Cement that contained the hazardous material was banned, and a new mixture had to be created. Although the revised list of ingredient is safe, old blocks of cement can still be a threat if they are found in public locations. As long as the cement is in one solid piece, there is no danger. However, cracked or crumbling cement can allow minute particles of asbestos to get out into the air, allowing nearby people to breathe in small amounts of the toxins.

There are certified professionals who are trained to deal with the removal and disposal of asbestos based goods. No one who is untrained in the proper techniques should ever attempt to touch or move such goods for any reason, as doing so could be extremely dangerous. If you suspect that anything in your home or office may be contain asbestos, contact a hazardous materials expert.

Insulating Cement Products Containing Asbestos

The following partial list of insulating cement products were known to contain asbestos:

Recourse if You Were Exposed

Many people have been afflicted by asbestos found in Insulating Cement and other products. Many of these individuals have chosen to file lawsuits against manufacturers using mesothelioma attorneys. Are you included in the number of those who developed malignant mesothelioma from this toxic substance? Then you may be eligible to file your own personal injury claim as well. Learn more about this procedure and what you should do by ordering a copy of our complimentary brochure today.