Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s until the late 1990s. As a material, it was valued for its durability, insulation properties, and resistance to heat and fire. However, asbestos fibers are highly toxic and can cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Asbestos was used in many different building materials, including insulation, roofing, flooring, and sealing products. It is important to note that asbestos is still present in many buildings today, particularly those built before the 1980s.