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Asbestos is the name given to a fibrous
mineral found in ore-bearing rock mined from an open pit or an underground
mine. There are three main types of asbestos -- white, blue, and
brown. The technical names are chrysotile, crocidolite, and amosite,
respectively. Asbestos consists of fibers of various sizes, colors,
and textures. The killer qualities of asbestos are associated with
the length, diameter, and strength of the fibers.
Asbestos is not dangerous in its inert
form. However, when it is cut or disturbed, asbestos releases millions
of microscopic fibers into the atmosphere. These fibers, when inhaled
deep into the lung, can cause irreversible injury to humans.
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