Serpentinite

The serpentinite is a Roche. It draws its name from its aspect similar to that of scales and causes a feeling particular to the touch, which could make evoke the skin of the snake. It should not however be confused with the serpentine , which is a completely different mineral.

It is about a yellowish rock to greenish (even green dark) or presenting greenish inclusions (porphyritic form). Especially made up (more than 75%) of serpentine Antigorite (phyllosilicate magnesian).

The serpentinite is a not very hard rock (hardness: from 4,0 to 5,0), density: from 2,5 to 2,6 g/cm ³

Composition

This rock can in particular contain in various proportions following minerals:
  • olivine,
  • pyroxene (enstatite),
  • magnetite (which explains its magnetism),
  • chlorite,
  • brucite, antigorite,
  • chrysotile (asbestos)…

geological origin:

Mode of layer and association

This mineral appears in seams, in small lenses or important masses; but also in association with the peridotites, pyroxenites, gabbros, basalts of the ophiolites and indurated talc.

Uses:

  • ore of asbestos chrysotile used in fireproof fabrics, the asbestos cement pipes, the brake pads, etc
  • used like heat insulator in certain elements of nuclear plants (in the “lid” of the engines of the type RBMK for example, for a use similar to that of asbestos.

Risk/toxicity

Risk Asbestose, as for the Amiante S, in particular following sawing, sandpapering, drilling of the rock.

Internal bond

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