Why is surfactant added to water used in asbestos abatement?

Surfactant is added to water used in asbestos abatement primarily to improve its penetration into asbestos-containing materials (ACM). This enhancement allows the water to better wet the surface of the materials being treated, which is essential in the process of controlling airborne fibers during abatement activities. By breaking down the surface tension of the water, surfactants enable the liquid to spread and saturate the ACM more effectively, thereby minimizing the release of asbestos fibers into the air.

This property is crucial during asbestos removal operations, as it ensures that the materials are adequately dampened, which helps in immobilizing potentially harmful fibers and reduces the risk of exposure to workers and the environment. A well-penetrated surface also facilitates easier removal of asbestos when combined with appropriate abatement techniques.

Other options do not align with the primary purpose of using surfactants in this context. Increasing the temperature of the water or enhancing its viscosity does not directly contribute to effective asbestos abatement, nor does neutralizing the asbestos content, since asbestos fibers cannot be neutralized in such a manner. Instead, the focus is on managing the physical properties of the water to enhance safety and effectiveness during the abatement process.