Tremolite

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Tremolite

Description

A fibrous mineral composed of calcium-magnesium silicate. Tremolite is a variety of Asbestos. Deposits occur in Switzerland, Canada (Ontario, Quebec), and the U.S. (Maine, Pennsylvania, New York). The transparent to opaque stone varies in color from white to gray to a pale green to a pinkish purple. Tremolite is used as a substitute for asbestos in fire-proof products. It is also used as a filler in paints and ceramics.

Raman

TremoliteRS.jpg

Raman

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Raman

TremoliteRSFTR.jpg

Synonyms and Related Terms

fibrous talc; calcium magenesium silicate; tremolita (Esp.); tremolite (Port.); Tremolit (Deut.)

Risks

  • Inhalation of dust is toxic.
  • Carcinogenic.

Physical and Chemical Properties

  • Monoclinic system with bladed prismatic crystals.
  • Often found in masses.
  • Resistant to acids.
  • Cleavage is perfect in two directions at angles of 56 and 124 degrees.
  • Luster = vitreous to silky.
  • Fracture = uneven.
  • Streak = colorless.
Composition Ca2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2
CAS 77536-68-6
Mohs Hardness 5 - 6
Density 2.9-3.3 g/ml

Resources and Citations

  • Richard S. Lewis, Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 10th ed., 1993
  • C.W.Chesterman, K.E.Lowe, Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1979
  • Van Nostrand's Scientific Encyclopedia, Douglas M. Considine (ed.), Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 1976
  • The American Heritage Dictionary or Encarta, via Microsoft Bookshelf 98, Microsoft Corp., 1998

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