Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and fire, making it a useful material for a variety of applications.
Asbestos was once widely used in construction, insulation, and other industrial applications. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, the use of asbestos has been banned in many countries.