Chrysotile Asbestos

Chrysotile Asbestos

Many studies have proven that exposure to chrysotile asbestos, commonly referred to as “white asbestos,” can cause a number of serious health conditions, including lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. While most commercial uses of asbestos in the United States have been of the chrysotile type, the use of this toxic mineral has declined significantly during the last two decades.

The Dangers of Chrysotile Asbestos

Naturally occurring deposits of chrysotile are often accompanied with trace amounts of tremolite (amphibole) asbestos, which is considered more toxic than chrysotile. However, several reports have indicated that exposure to only chrysotile asbestos fibers can occur and such exposure can be equally hazardous as exposure to amphibole asbestos types.

Scientists from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health concluded that chrysotile asbestos should be treated “with virtually the same level of concern as the amphibole forms of asbestos.”

A 1988 study looked at 181 railroad workers exposed to chrysotile asbestos. Of them, 156 deaths were reported. And of those deaths, 41 were cancer-related and 14 were attributed to mesothelioma.

Another study involving 3,072 former South Carolina textile workers exposed only to chrysotile asbestos demonstrated toxic results. Of the 1,961 workers who died by 2001, there were three cases of mesothelioma. Higher numbers were reported for lung cancer and asbestosis. 

Uses of Chrysotile

In comparison to amphiboles, chrysotile fibers are generally finer with high flexibility and good heat resistance. Known as the most common asbestos mineral, chrysotile accounts for about 90 to 95 percent of asbestos used in commercial applications in the United States. This toxic mineral has been utilized in a number of products, including:

• Gaskets
• Cement
• Insulation
• Brake pads
• Brake linings
• Joint compound
• Roofing materials