Definition
An amphibole asbestos mineral (CAS 77536-67-5) with straight, brittle fibres ranging in colour from brown to yellowish-white. Anthophyllite is the rarest of the six regulated asbestos types and was not widely used commercially. It is primarily found as a contaminant in talc, vermiculite, and some chrysotile deposits. Despite its rarity, anthophyllite fibres are durable in lung tissue and are associated with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
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Amphibole Asbestos
A group of asbestos minerals with straight, needle-like fibers that are considered more harmful than chrysotile. Includes crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. Amphibole fibers are more durable in lung tissue and are associated with higher rates of mesothelioma. These types are less common but more dangerous when exposure occurs.
Tremolite
An amphibole asbestos mineral (CAS 77536-68-6) that forms white to dark-green prismatic crystals. Tremolite was not mined commercially for industrial use but is commonly found as a contaminant in chrysotile asbestos, vermiculite insulation (notably from the Libby, Montana mine), and talc products. Its presence as a contaminant has been linked to significant occupational and environmental exposure, and it is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC.
Actinolite
One of the six regulated types of asbestos (CAS 77536-66-4), belonging to the amphibole mineral group. Actinolite forms long, thin, needle-like crystals that can be green, white, or grey. It was not used commercially as a standalone material but occurs as a contaminant in other minerals such as vermiculite and talc. When present in fibrous form, actinolite poses the same inhalation risks as other asbestos types, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.