The Effects of Asbestos On Humans Great for insulation -- not so great for humans Asbestos is a fibrous, silicate mineral known for its durability, heat-resistance, and chemical inertness and has been mined and used commercially in North America since the late 1800’s. Since then it has been used in a wide variety of applications. It has been used it for insulation, fireproofing, gardening, stre..