What hazardous substance is euphemistically referred to as "mineral fiber"?
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Asbestos. It is a mineral that has a fibrous crystalline habit. The crystals can grow so long, that it can actually sometimes look like grey hair. It is only hazardous if it is inhaled. And mostly, as it was used for electrical and heat insulation, it was mixed with cement. There were other preparations that were not so nearly safely made. But in all cases, it is use and wear that releases the asbestos fibers.
There are a number of minerals classified as "asbestos." One is a serpentine (I think that is the most common). Another is actinolite which is a non-fibrous form that is sometimes cut and polished and put into jewelry, in which case it is known as nephrite ... a type of jade.
I love rocks and minerals. Some are very pretty and should never be handled unless you know how to do it safely. Like realgar which has a high arsenic concentration. And sea shells when cut and polished must have it done under water because in many cases, the dust coming off of them can be toxic if inhaled. Education is the key to dealing with any thing considered "hazardous." I'll get off my soap box about that now. :)
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