is ther any asbestos in cement?

Asbestos fibers were a common ingredient in cement in the early 20th century - it made strong and durable building materials. After the EPA banned asbestos in '73, I don't believe it was used anymore in production of cement building materials. There are still building products in use today that were made when it was "okay" to build with it. The asbestos in cement is non-friable, so the hazardous potential is extremely low. Careful actions are taken when the older, asbestos-containing building materials have to be repaired. However, after severe deterioration of the product, it can then be considered a hazardous material.