Fiber cement, also called uralite, is a material used in construction, composed of a binder—which can be a hydraulic inorganic material such as cement or calcium silicate—reinforced with organic, mineral and/or synthetic inorganic fibers. Originally the reinforcing fibers of asbestos cement were asbestos, but when the carcinogenic effect of this substance was demonstrated, other materials began to be used, mainly fiberglass.

Fiber cement is mainly used for the coating, insulation and waterproofing of numerous structures.

The origin of fiber cement dates back to 1900, the year in which it was invented by Ludwig Hatschek"), an Austrian engineer.

For the manufacture of fiber cement, asbestos was originally used as a reinforcing fiber,[1]​ but when the health problems it causes became apparent, its use was gradually abandoned in different countries (in Spain, starting in the 1990s). Once it has reached the end of its useful life and according to current legislation in Spain, it is necessary to replace it with another non-carcinogenic material. Attempts have been made to replace asbestos with other types of fibers, such as cellulose fibers, vinyl fibers), or fiberglass. The latter case has been widely accepted by the market, as it is not a material harmful to health and has improved the mechanical properties of fiber cement. However, tubes of all types, which were manufactured by centrifuging the material, have not been able to be reproduced with cellulose, so their use has had to be abandoned.

Currently, AR" (alkali resistant) fiberglass has begun to be used since it offers superior reinforcement to polypropylene, which was the substitute product when asbestos was stopped. They contain approximately 14% zirconium oxide in their manufacture and are not affected by the alkalinity of the cement. Up to 3% can be added with respect to the amount of cement and prevent the formation of cracks.[2]​.

Fiber cement boards are waterproof and easy to cut and drill. They are resistant to humidity and prevent the proliferation of mold and bacteria.[3] Due to their properties, they are mainly used in constructions as a finishing material and as a support for the coating of exterior walls and in the form of pipes, downspouts, roofs, etc.