Is There Such a Thing as “Non-Toxic” Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once commonly used in many industrial, commercial, and military applications for its heat-resistant properties. Sadly, the substance is also causally related to developing mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer that typically affects the thin lining of tissue surrounding the lungs and abdomen.

Despite what many asbestos-industry advocates purported throughout the years, there is no safe or acceptable level of asbestos exposure, nor is there any type of asbestos less prone to causing mesothelioma. Although some health organizations deem certain types of asbestos more toxic than others, they all pose serious health risks and are heavily regulated, if not banned outright.

Depending on the application and country of origin, manufacturers have used different types of asbestos to create their products. There are six different types of asbestos, which include chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite.

Chrysotile Asbestos

Chrysotile asbestos was once the most commonly used asbestos in the United States, especially in industrial applications like roofing materials, floor tiles, various insulations, and brake pads. This type of asbestos is commonly referred to as “white asbestos” and is a member of the serpentine family of the mineral.

Amosite Asbestos

The American Cancer Society has designated amosite or “brown asbestos” as creating the highest risk of cancer. This type of asbestos is directly linked to mesothelioma and other deadly cancers.

Crocidolite Asbestos

Crocidolite asbestos is characterized by its extremely thin fibers, making airborne exposure a high probability if disturbed. These qualities make it even more likely the asbestos could be inhaled and trapped in the lungs.

Tremolite Asbestos

Often woven into cloth-like materials, thermolite asbestos was commonly used in insulation materials because of its unique flexibility. Exposure to tremolite asbestos often happens when mining for or coming in contact with other naturally occurring materials like talc or vermiculite.

Anthophyllite Asbestos

Anthophyllite asbestos may be the least common form of the mineral. Few deposits are known to exist, mostly in the United States and Finland. Anthophyllite asbestos has been known to develop with veins of talc and vermiculite, just as thermolite asbestos does. While some studies suggest the risk of developing cancer from exposure to anthophyllite asbestos, many victims have developed serious health problems from the mineral.

Actinolite Asbestos

Actinolite comes in a variety of forms and colors. This type of asbestos was once commonly used in residential and commercial construction as well as industrial insulation. Just like every other type of asbestos, there is no safe level of exposure to actinolite asbestos. Thousands of victims have developed mesothelioma as a result of coming in contact with actinolite asbestos.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.