Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous metamorphic minerals; chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite. Of the hydrous magnesium silicate variety, asbestos is chemically inert, does not conduct heat or electricity, is insoluble and is without odor. Mined from metamorphic deposits, asbestos’ combination of properties made it a valuable insulator, regularly used in buildings, automobiles, shipyards and a variety of household products. Asbestos is the only known cause of the fatal cancer called malignant mesothelioma.
Chrysotile Asbestos
Also called white asbestos, chrysotile asbestos is unique in that it has a serpentine fiber-formation (curled fibers) compared to the amphibole fiber-formation (straight, needle-like fibers) of the other five types. Chrysotile asbestos is less friable than other types of asbestos, meaning that it is less-likely to be inhaled.
Because chrysotile asbestos is less likely to be inhaled, it is deemed the safest of the asbestos types; some evidence even suggests that chrysotile is harmless when inhaled.
Amosite Asbestos
Also called Grunerite or brown asbestos, amosite asbestos is an amphibole originating in Africa. Amosite is used commercially for various purposes such as cement sheet and pipe insulation.
Crocidolite Asbestos
Also called blue asbestos, crocidolite asbestos is an amphibole mineral that can be found in Africa and Australia. Crocidolite is viewed to be the most dangerous type of asbestos.
Tremolite Asbestos
Tremolite asbestos is not often used industrially, though it can be found in products such as certain talcum powders.
Actinolite Asbestos
Similar to tremolite asbestos, actinolite asbestos is not often used industrially. Airborne actinolite fibers are easily inhaled and severely damaging to the lungs.
Anthophyllite Asbestos
Like tremolite and actinolite, anthophyllite is not often used industrially, though it can occasionally be found in certain vermiculites (natural minerals that expand with the application of heat).