Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which is mined that was widely used in construction and industry for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. There are three main types but here is a list of six types of asbestos, all of which are fibrous and can pose a serious health risk when inhaled.
Chrysotile - Also known as white asbestos, chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos and accounts for approximately 95% of asbestos used worldwide. It has long, curly fibres that are flexible and easy to weave into other materials.
Amosite - Also known as brown asbestos, amosite has straight, needle-like fibres that are more brittle than chrysotile. It was commonly used in insulation and cement products.
Crocidolite - Also known as blue asbestos, crocidolite has thin, sharp fibres that are highly resistant to heat. It was commonly used in insulation and spray-on coatings.
Tremolite - Tremolite is a less common type of asbestos that has sharp, straight fibres. It was used in a variety of industrial products, including insulation and roofing materials.
Anthophyllite - Anthophyllite is a rare type of asbestos that has long, straight fibres. It was used in a variety of products, including insulation and roofing materials.
Actinolite - Actinolite is another rare type of asbestos that has long, straight fibres. It was used in a variety of industrial products, including insulation and building materials.
All types of asbestos are hazardous to human health, and exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious lung diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As a result, many countries around the world have banned or severely restricted the use of asbestos.
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