Types of Asbestos
The term “asbestos” refers to a group of six fibrous, naturally occurring minerals. There are two main categories of asbestos: amphibole asbestos and serpentine asbestos. These groups can be further broken down into several types of asbestos:
- The serpentine asbestos group contains one type of asbestos, chrysotile.
- The amphibole asbestos group consists of several types of asbestos: amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite.
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What Characterizes the Different Types of Asbestos?
Chrysotile: Known for its long, curly fibers, chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos used in industrial and commercial applications. 
Also called “white asbestos,” this type of asbestos is a confirmed cause of asbestos-related diseases including mesothelioma in humans. Today, only Russia and Canada are major producers of chrysotile, using it in products such as pipe insulation, roofing shingles, and fire blankets.
Amosite: Known as “brown asbestos” due to its brown or gray-colored fibers, amosite is the second most commonly used asbestos type – and the second deadliest. Its strong heat resistance made it a popular choice as a fire retardant in thermal insulation products. But by the mid-1980s, the use of amosite was largely banned in the developed world.
Crocidolite: Characterized by its straight blue fibers, this type of asbestos is considered the most lethal form of the mineral. This is due to the fact that crocidolite has sharp, needle-like fibers that break off easily and are difficult for the body to expel once inhaled or swallowed. Given its strength, durability, and flame-resistant properties, the crocidolite asbestos type was used primarily in rope lagging, thermal insulation, and spray-on fireproofing.
Tremolite: Composed of white, gray, or green fibers, this type of asbestos is not used commercially. However, like crocidolite, its tiny, razor-like fibers can become lodged inside a person’s airways and set the stage for serious health problems. In Libby, Montana, residents were subjected to large amounts of tremolite that contaminated a vermiculite ore mine – and many succumbed to mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. 
Anthophyllite: White, gray, or brown in color, this type of asbestos is rare and not used in commercial applications.
Actinolite: Also rare, this type of asbestos is not used for commercial purposes and generally occurs as a contaminant to other minerals.
Were You Injured by Asbestos?
If you were hurt by exposure to asbestos of any type, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, 
lost income, and pain and suffering. Call Sokolove Law today at 888-360-4215 to learn more about your rights under the law.