The EPA requires that the asbestos content of suspect materials be determined by analyzing samples with polarized light microscopy (PLM). PLM analysis results give the percent and type of asbestos in the sample.

Asbestos can be found in many items such as:
Cement Pipes
Elevator Brake Shoes
Boiler Insulation
Vinyl Floor Tile
Flooring Backing
Acoustical Plaster
Electrical Cloth
Ceiling Tiles and Lay-In Panels
Chalkboards
Fireproofing Materials
Adhesives