Asbestos; other than crocidolite (blue asbestos)

HS code 252490 covers the trade and production of asbestos, excluding the highly hazardous crocidolite (blue asbestos) variety. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber with unique properties, including heat resistance, tensile strength, and chemical inertness. This industry plays a crucial role in the construction, automotive, and manufacturing sectors, providing essential materials for a wide range of applications.

The production of asbestos covered under HS code 252490 typically involves mining, milling, and processing the mineral. Asbestos deposits are extracted from open-pit or underground mines, then crushed, sorted, and processed to separate the fibers from the surrounding rock. The fibers are then further refined, graded, and prepared for use in various products.

The main inputs required for the asbestos industry under HS code 252490 include the raw asbestos mineral, mining and processing equipment, and energy sources such as electricity or fuel. Additionally, the industry relies on transportation infrastructure to move the raw materials and finished products to various markets. Specialized labor with expertise in mining, mineral processing, and quality control is also a critical input for this industry.

The primary outputs of the asbestos industry covered by HS code 252490 are various grades and forms of asbestos fibers. These fibers are then used as inputs for the production of a wide range of products, including 681310 Brake linings, 681320 Clutch linings, 681390 Other articles of asbestos-cement, of cellulose fiber-cement or the like, and 681410 Fabricated asbestos fibers; mixtures with a basis of asbestos or with a basis of asbestos and magnesium carbonate.