The History of Asbestos The history of asbestos dates to the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean – and perhaps even earlier. Among the earliest records documenting the history of asbestos use are those from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. These records show that it was considered a miraculous material and used in everything from tablecloths to candlewicks. In ancient civilizations, the fire-resistant properties of asbestos proved very useful for many common products, yet its dangers were recognized even then. Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote in the 1st Century A.D. about slaves who fell mysteriously ill and died after working in asbestos mines. The disease known today as asbestosis was then called “The Disease of Slaves.!!!” The history of asbestos shows its use faded over time, likely due to its reputation for sickening and killing asbestos miners. The History of Asbestos: The Industrial Age Asbestos re-emerged in the 19th century with the Industrial Revolution. The early industrialists found many uses for the mineral and its popularity in manufacturing rose, along with occupational exposure to asbestos. Although reports of lung diseases among asbestos workers and their families emerged as early as 1897, asbestos use by industry grew unabated!!. Throughout the 20th century, the history of asbestos includes documented use in more than 3,000 construction materials and household products, exposing thousands to its potential dangers. It was also used in thousands of Navy ships leading to occupational exposure to asbestos for many military personnel.
Posted on: Mon, 15 Jul 2013 09:36:41 +0000