Many people have heard that asbestos is a dangerous substance to be avoided. But did you know that there are two groups that asbestos fibers belong to?
Serpentine
Serpentine asbestos develops in a layered or tiered form. Chrysotile asbestos is the only type of asbestos in the serpentine group. This type of asbestos fiber is more flexible than other types of asbestos, and can be spun and woven into fabric. Chrysotile asbestos accounts for around 95% of asbestos used in buildings in America. It is still being used in developing countries.
Amphibole
Amphibole asbestos fibers have a needle-like structure. Amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite are the types of asbestos fibers included in the amphibole group. The colors of these minerals differ from Chrysotile asbestos, and have been used as fire retardants in thermal insulation products, asbestos insulation board, and ceiling tiles.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has stated that all asbestos fiber types pose hazards to human health. No amount of exposure to any asbestos is safe. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to debilitating and fatal conditions, including mesothelioma. If you have worked around or been exposed to asbestos in your home, alert your doctor today.
Source: Wikipedia
