Spying asbestos

Contractors and building inspectors may soon find themselves dyeing to see asbestos.

IN THE PINK. Until treated, asbestos doesn’t show up in cement (top). A new red-dye treatment can highlight even small traces (bottom). American Chemical Society

Owing to the mineral’s strength, limited chemical reactivity, and insulating properties, manufacturers have added traces of asbestos over the years to a host of building materials, including those made from concrete.