Asbestos-cement; articles or the like, containing asbestos

HS code 681140 covers a range of products containing asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral with unique properties that make it highly useful in construction and manufacturing. Asbestos-cement products, including sheets, pipes, and other articles, have been widely used for their durability, fire resistance, and insulating capabilities. This industry plays a crucial role in the building and infrastructure sectors, contributing to the development of sustainable and resilient structures worldwide.

The production of asbestos-cement articles typically involves a process called the Hatschek process. This method combines asbestos fibers, cement, and water to create a slurry, which is then pressed and cured to form the desired products. The resulting materials are then cut, shaped, and finished to meet specific requirements. Advancements in manufacturing techniques have also led to the development of alternative, asbestos-free cement-based products to address health and environmental concerns.

The primary inputs for the asbestos-cement industry include asbestos fibers, cement, and water. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, is the key raw material that provides the desired properties of strength, heat resistance, and durability. Cement, a binding agent, is also a crucial component, while water is used to create the slurry mixture. Additionally, the industry may require specialized machinery and equipment for the Hatschek process and subsequent finishing steps.

The main outputs of the asbestos-cement industry are a range of construction materials, including sheets, pipes, and other articles. These products are widely used in the building and infrastructure sectors, finding applications in roofing, siding, water supply systems, and various other construction projects. The outputs of this industry may be consumed by industries such as 441000 Construction of buildings, 422000 Civil engineering, and 439000 Specialized construction activities.