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For what purpose was asbestos commonly used before its hazards were discovered?

  1. Sound insulation

  2. Flame retardant

  3. Moisture barrier

  4. Structural support

The correct answer is: Flame retardant

Asbestos was commonly utilized as a flame retardant due to its unique properties, such as high heat resistance and non-combustibility. This made it an ideal material for various applications where fire resistance was necessary, such as insulation in buildings, fireproofing on structural steel, and in manufacturing fire-resistant clothing. The effectiveness of asbestos in preventing the spread of flames contributed to its widespread adoption in construction and industrial settings before the serious health hazards associated with asbestos exposure became well known. While asbestos did have insulating properties that contributed to sound insulation, its primary and most notable application was related to its flame-retardant qualities.