Abstract
Construction and demolition (C&D) wastes, typically referred to as “debris”, is continuously generated and is being seen as an urban nuisance in the last three decades in the developing world, particularly in India. The unrestricted use of asbestos has led to the generation of high levels of friable asbestos, which is directly linked to mesothelioma, a form of lung cancer due to asbestosis. In the Indian context, exposure to asbestos can be attributed to asbestos mining, asbestos cement (AC) industries, asbestos product manufacturing and processing units and renovation and demolition of old asbestos-cemented building roofs and other insulation materials. A major portion of C&D waste comes from the demolition of old buildings. The present study deals with the analysis of current patterns of asbestos production, import and usage, thus examining, quantifying and forecasting asbestos-containing C&D wastes. Weathered 30-year-old AC roof sheets and pipes were analysed using analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM) fitted with EDX prime energy-dispersive analysis system. The study points out that the asbestos fibres are encapsulated in cement matrix but the hazardous characteristic of the chrysotile is not altered, and this can be a matter of great concern as these fibres can be released into the atmosphere due to demolition activity or ageing.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
