Asbestos was primarily valued in building materials for its?

Asbestos was primarily valued in building materials for its heat resistance properties. This characteristic made it an attractive material for a variety of applications, particularly in fireproofing and insulation. Asbestos can withstand high temperatures without degrading, which is crucial for building safety and durability in fire-prone environments.

In contrast, while asbestos does have sound absorption qualities, it was not primarily used for this purpose. Its low cost was also a factor in its use, but that was more of an economic consideration rather than a primary reason for its desirability. Additionally, electrical conductivity is not a property associated with asbestos, as it is actually a poor conductor of electricity. The primary appeal of asbestos was its ability to provide protection against heat, which is why it became widely used in various construction materials until its health risks became widely recognized.