Chrysotile, commonly known as ‘white’ asbestos, is a member of the group of minerals comprising the serpentine class, and constitutes about 95% of the world supply of asbestos, of which 3/4 is mined in Quebec . Other large deposits exist in South Africa . In the United States , California , Vermont and Arizona are the leading asbestos producing states; however, the majority of United States deposits are of no commercial value.
In its raw natural state, Chrysotile is cream, white or pale green in appearance and its soft curly fibres when processed make it ideal for spinning and weaving. Chrysotile asbestos was the most commonly used form within the UK , often incorporated in materials such as Asbestos Cement (AC) and various papers.
Chrysotile, commonly known as ‘white’ asbestos, is a member of the group of minerals comprising the serpentine class, and constitutes about 95% of the world supply of asbestos, of which 3/4 is mined in Quebec.Blue or brown Asbestos?Asbestos falls into one of two principal classes, either amphiboles or serpentines, the former being of relatively minor importance.From the 6 main types of asbestos existing, in the UK , in addition to Chrysotile, we’ve mainly used two amphibole types,Crocidolite and Amosite, more commonly known as ‘blue’ asbestos and ‘brown’ asbestos respectively.The colour prefix refers to its raw state and it is very hard for the naked eye to detect the colour when it is in an ACM.
Crocidolite was primarily mined in South Africa but was also commercially mined in Australia .In its raw state, the fibres are very dark in appearance and when processed appear a distinctive blue.Commonly used as sprayed insulation, Crocidolite is seen as one of the most deadly forms of Asbestos.
