Chrysotile
Chrysotile, commonly known as white asbestos, is a serpentine mineral fiber that accounts for approximately 95% of all asbestos used commercially in the United States. Despite industry claims of lower toxicity compared to amphibole fibers, chrysotile is a confirmed carcinogen and a proven cause of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Chrysotile was the most widely used form of asbestos in American industry, found in thousands of products including brake pads, roofing materials, insulation, cement pipes, floor tiles, and textiles. Its curly, flexible fibers made it particularly useful for weaving into heat-resistant fabrics and mixing into cement and plaster products.
The asbestos industry long argued that chrysotile was safer than amosite or crocidolite because its curly fibers are more easily cleared from the lungs. However, epidemiological evidence clearly demonstrates that chrysotile causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies all forms of asbestos, including chrysotile, as Group 1 carcinogens.
Because chrysotile was so widely used, it is the most common type encountered in occupational and secondary exposure settings. Buildings constructed before 1980 may contain chrysotile in numerous applications, and professional abatement is required before renovation or demolition. Learn more about asbestos exposure sources.
- Also known as
- White asbestos, Serpentine asbestos
- Category
- Asbestos
- Related terms
- Amosite, Crocidolite, Occupational Exposure, Friable Asbestos, Asbestosis
Is chrysotile asbestos dangerous?
Yes. Despite industry claims of lower toxicity, chrysotile is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by IARC and is a confirmed cause of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Where is chrysotile asbestos commonly found?
Chrysotile was used in thousands of products including brake pads, roofing materials, insulation, cement pipes, floor tiles, and textiles manufactured before the 1980s.
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