Air Pollution from Asbestos Emissions

Abstract

Written by a teacher-in-training from the Universidad de Antioquia, this article presents exploratory research on atmospheric asbestos pollution from vehicle brake wear in Medellín. The author describes the composition and classification of asbestos minerals, the pathogenic mechanisms of their fibers when inhaled, and diseases associated with prolonged exposure. The text documents U.S. findings showing that more than 99.7% of asbestos emitted from brake wear transforms into a non-carcinogenic mineral, and presents Colombia's regulatory framework on air quality, concluding with a note on the absence of studies and monitoring on asbestos in Medellín.