noun
- a fibrous form of the mineral serpentine that is the most common type of asbestos
Usage: mineralogy; geology
Examples
- Chrysotile was widely used in building materials before its health risks were understood.
- The old insulation contained chrysotile fibers that posed a serious health hazard.
- Workers wore protective equipment when removing chrysotile from the building.
- Chrysotile has a silky, fibrous appearance that distinguishes it from other minerals.
- The mine produced chrysotile for industrial applications throughout the 20th century.
- Exposure to chrysotile can cause serious respiratory diseases including mesothelioma.