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.
Synonyms and Related Terms
fibrous talc; calcium magenesium silicate; tremolita (Esp.); tremolite (Port.); Tremolit (Deut.)
Other 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 |
Hazards and Safety
Inhalation of dust is toxic. Carcinogenic.
Occupational Health Services: MSDS
Additional Information
Mineralogy Database: Tremolite
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- 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
- Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, at http://www.wikipedia.com Comment: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tremolite (Accessed Sept. 17, 2005)
- 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