This material became popular during the industrial age and it wasn’t until the 1970s until it was recognised just how harmful it was. Nonetheless, its use wasn’t fully banned in the UK until 1999. Because of its unique properties, it was used in everything from insulation material for buildings, boilers and pipes to car brakes and floor tiles.
It was also used for insulating boards to protect buildings and ships against fire, and in cement for roofing sheets and pipes.
Brown and white asbestos (Chrysotile and Amosite) were the two most commonly used types of asbestos, until it’s harmfulness was realised.