Sweet gums are so called because they exude a fragrant yellow resinous gum.. The tree is known by a wide variety of names, among them alligator-tree and alligator wood (probably a reference to the warty knobs on the tree's bark), incense tree and liquidambar.
What is asbestos? Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are resistant to heat and corrosion. Because of these properties, asbestos has been used in commercial products such as insulation and fireproofing materials, automotive brakes, and wallboard materials.
What is asbestos, and why should I care? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in many parts of the world, mined primarily in Canada, South Africa and the United States. Nearly 3/4 of the world's supply comes from Quebec, Canada. It has been used since the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans and was prized for its heat resistant properties.