What are the two categories of asbestos?

The two categories of asbestos are serpentine and amphibole. Serpentine refers to the group of asbestos that includes chrysotile, which is the most commonly used type of asbestos due to its flexibility and durability. Amphibole asbestos includes other types such as crocidolite, amosite, tremolite, and actinolite.

Understanding these categories is crucial for identifying the potential risks and health hazards associated with different asbestos types. Serpentine fibers tend to be curly and are generally more manageable for industrial applications, while amphibole fibers are straight and needle-like, making them more likely to become airborne and pose inhalation risks. Thus, distinguishing between the serpentine and amphibole categories aids in proper hazard assessment and regulatory measures.