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Abstract

This invention pertains to a method for remediating, detoxifying and containing various types of asbestos fibers and asbestos containing materials, such as crocidolite (and other forms of Riebeckite), and tremolite. The end-product of the method may be reclaimed or recycled as useable surfacing, structural and decorative materials. In some embodiments of the invention some end-products of the process may be used as a synthetic gemstone, counter-surfacing material cutting tool, resin for manufacture of furniture products, while others may be used to reclaim natural sand. In one embodiment of this invention crocidolite or other forms of reibeckite or tremolite asbestos debris in loose form or as a component of asbestos cement or other asbestos containing products is converted to a form of engineered quartz, yielding as a synthetic form of the gemstone Tiger's Eye or Hawk's eye. This end-product bears unique and enhanced aesthetic qualities over other types of engineered quartz, called chatoyancy (an optical effect that arises either from the fibrous structure of a material or from fibrous inclusions or cavities and is sometimes likened to the sheen off a spool of silk). The end product therefore achieves luminous more natural-looking effect, while retaining the other desirable features of engineered quartz, such as strength, imperviousness to heat, and resistance to acids and microbial contamination, and reduces the need for the addition of decorative resinous materials which diminish the endurance features of the material.

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First Claim