Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber. From the 1900s until the late 1980s, asbestos was commonly used as a building material. Its heat resistance made it a great candidate for insulation, and fireproofing. It doesn’t conduct electricity, and it is resistant to chemicals. It was also used as a strengthening material during that time. But, as the risk of prolonged asbestos exposure came to light, regulatory agencies took action to protect consumers.