Crocidolite

About Crocidolite Asbestos

Crocidolite, commonly called blue asbestos, belongs to the amphibole family of asbestos minerals. Straight, extremely fine needle-like fibers characterize this mineral.

Studies show crocidolite has the highest mesothelioma incidence rates. Its thin, sharp fibers are most likely to lodge in lung tissue.

Primary Uses

Crocidolite was used in various industrial and commercial applications:

• Spray coatings
• Pipe insulation
• Cement products
• Shipbuilding

Common Products Containing Crocidolite

Products that historically contained Crocidolite include:

Learn more about specific asbestos-containing products:

Health Risks

Exposure to Crocidolite asbestos can cause:

• Mesothelioma — Aggressive cancer of the lung lining, heart lining, or abdominal lining with a median survival of 12-21 months
• Lung cancer — Risk increases significantly, especially with combined smoking exposure
• Asbestosis — Progressive scarring of lung tissue causing breathing difficulties
• Pleural disease — Thickening, plaques, and effusions in the lung lining

Symptoms may not appear until 20-50 years after initial exposure, making early detection challenging.

Where Crocidolite Was Found

Crocidolite was primarily sourced from:

• South Africa
• Australia
• Bolivia

Peak usage in the United States occurred during the 1940s-1960s.

Current Regulatory Status

Status: Banned in U.S. since 1989

Despite regulations, legacy asbestos remains in millions of buildings constructed before 1980. Renovation, demolition, and maintenance activities continue to expose workers and building occupants to asbestos fibers.

Other Asbestos Types