Friable vs Non-Friable Materials

Asbestos Awareness at the University of Toronto

4.0   Friable vs Non-Friable Materials

Asbestos-containing materials are categorized as friable or nonfriable in order to show how easily they may release asbestos fibres when disturbed.

 

A material that is friable is one which can be crumbled, pulverized or powdered by hand pressure. If a friable asbestos-containing material is damaged or disturbed, it presents an inhalation risk because asbestos fibres are more easily released into the air. Examples of friable materials include sprayed fireproofing on structural steelwork, or thermal insulation on pipes.

 

A non-friable asbestos product is one in which the asbestos fibres are bound or locked into the product matrix, so that the fibres are not readily released. Such a product would present a risk for fibre release only when it is subject to significant abrasion through activities such as sanding or cutting with electric power tools. Examples of nonfriable asbestos products include vinyl asbestos floor tiles, acoustic ceiling tiles, and asbestos cement products.