What were some historical uses of asbestos in ancient Rome?

The historical uses of asbestos in ancient Rome included its application in napkins and burial garments. This was primarily due to asbestos's unique properties, such as its natural resistance to heat, fire, and decay. Romans valued asbestos because it could be cleaned and reused, making it suitable for items like napkins that required frequent washing. Additionally, the use of asbestos in burial garments is linked to their beliefs in the afterlife, where the fire-resistant materials would potentially protect the deceased. This understanding of asbestos's characteristics and its insulation properties helped integrate it into various aspects of everyday Roman life and rituals.

The other options, while they may pertain to the industrial uses of asbestos in later years, do not accurately reflect its historical applications during the Roman era.