Context:
Recently, the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a comprehensive ban on all forms of the deadly carcinogen asbestos.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
About Asbestos
Definition and Types:
- Asbestos is a collective term for a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals known for their unique properties.
- These minerals are broadly classified into two categories: serpentine and amphiboles. Among these, chrysotile or white asbestos belongs to the serpentine group and has been the most commonly used type.
Key Properties:
- Heat and Corrosion Resistance: Asbestos exhibits high resistance to heat and corrosion, making it suitable for various applications in industries.
- Non-flammable: Even at extremely high temperatures, asbestos remains non-flammable.
- Flexibility and Durability: Its flexibility and durability make it an ideal material for construction and insulation.
- Tensile Strength: Asbestos possesses a good tensile strength.
- Thermal and Electrical Properties: It has low heat conductivity and offers high resistance to electricity.
Historical Use:
- Asbestos has been widely used in various industries, including construction, insulation, and the production of consumer goods due to its unique properties.
Global Trade:
- India predominantly relies on imports from countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, Brazil, and China to meet its asbestos demand.
Recent Developments:
- The USA has recently banned chrysotile asbestos, primarily used by the chlor-alkali industry. This industry produces chemicals like chlorine bleach and caustic soda used in water treatment.
Health Impacts:
- Associated Health Risks: All forms of asbestos are linked to severe health conditions such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, laryngeal cancer, ovarian cancer, and asbestosis (a lung fibrosis).
- Airborne Fibers: When disturbed, products containing asbestos release microscopic fibers into the air.
- Respiratory Concerns: Inhaling these asbestos fibers can lead to their retention in the lungs, potentially causing long-term health issues.
-Source: Indian Express
