New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

What is the only type of serpentine asbestos?

1. Amosite

2. Crocidolite

3. Chrysotile

4. Actinolite

The correct answer is: Chrysotile

Chrysotile is the only type of serpentine asbestos, which is a significant classification within the broader group of asbestos minerals. Serpentine asbestos has a unique curly fiber structure, allowing it to be more flexible and less brittle than other types. Chrysotile makes up the majority of the asbestos found in construction materials, accounting for approximately 95% of the asbestos used in various applications due to its desirable properties such as heat resistance, electrical insulation, and tensile strength. In contrast, amosite, crocidolite, and actinolite fall under the amphibole category of asbestos. Amphibole asbestos types generally have a straighter, more needle-like fiber structure, making them less flexible and more readily airborne when disturbed. This difference in structure contributes to their varying health risks and applications compared to the serpentine type. Hence, understanding that chrysotile is the sole representative of serpentine asbestos helps delineate the classifications and characteristics of the various asbestos types.