Asbestos Types

The asbestos industry uses several types of this mineral; depending on the specific application is the material is needed in. Almost all of these types are harmful if in friable form because at a molecular level the deadly asbestos fibers are almost identical.

Asbestos minerals

The following is a list of some of the most common types of asbestos fibers that are used:

  • Chrysotile (also known as white asbestos) – the most common type of asbestos, present in over 90 percent of asbestos containing materials
  • Amosite (also known as brown or gray asbestos) – this is the only type of asbestos containing iron in high percentage
  • Crocidolite (known as blue asbestos) – the most dangerous type of asbestos, commonly found in Africa and Australia
  • Anthophyllite – found in specific vermiculites
  • Actinolite – a type of asbestos that was less common
  • Tremolite – used to manufacture certain talc powders

Asbestos minerals are commonly found developing on top vermiculites. Those types are called amphibole. All types of asbestos are natural and can be found almost all over the world.

Uses of asbestos throughout the years

The first time asbestos was used by people it was a common and indispensable for the chemical industry. It was used as a holder for the glass tubes when a fire was placed underneath them. In time it developed into a very efficient insulation and fireproofing material. Asbestos was banned around the sixties world wide, and today it is only used where it cannot be replaced.

Which asbestos types are more dangerous?

Asbestos ChrysotileAll of them are dangerous, but some are far less common than others. Remember that and act accordingly. Chrysotile is the most dangerous type of asbestos, as statistics suggest. But this is only because it the most common of them all.

How to identify asbestos?

Asbestos fibers are exactly what they sound like, a bunch of fibers that spread when torn apart. Clear analysis and confirmation microscopic studies are required. Asbestos should be avoided because exposure to this mineral can cause mesothelioma or other severe related diseases. We recommend visiting a doctor as soon as you can if you think you have been exposed to asbestos. We also recommend using appropriate protective equipment when around asbestos.
 

Would you like o know more about asbestos? Please feel free to contact an asbestos professional and ask for help. The information and advice you receive from us is absolutely free.