Tremolite
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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.)
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
- Mineralogy Database: Tremolite
- 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: 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