Crocidolite (fibrous riebeckite) cross polarized photomicrograph, Africa
The fibrous forms of riebeckite are known as crocidolite and are one of the six recognized types of asbestos. Often referred to as blue asbestos, it is considered the most hazardous. In 1964 Dr Christopher Wagner discovered an association between blue asbestos and mesothelioma. Crocidolite asbestos was mined in South Africa, Bolivia and also at Wittenoom, Western Australia. Bolivian crocidolite was used in Kent Micronite cigarette filters in the 1950s. Blue asbestos was also formally used in early gas masks. In the mid 1900's, asbestos was found to be harmful, so production stopped.
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Photo credit: © Scenics & Science / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: africa, asbestos, cancer, chemistry, crocidolite, cross, photomicrograph, polarized, silicate
