Which mineral is currently used as an industrial substitute for asbestos?

Wollastonite is currently used as an industrial substitute for asbestos due to its similar properties and performance in various applications. It is a naturally occurring mineral that has a fibrous structure, which makes it useful in reinforcing plastics and other materials. Wollastonite is favored because it is non-toxic and does not pose the same health risks as asbestos, which is known to cause serious respiratory diseases, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.

The use of wollastonite provides a safer alternative in industries that require materials with strength, durability, and heat resistance characteristics similar to those provided by asbestos. Its chemical composition, primarily calcium silicate, allows it to perform well in high-temperature environments, making it suitable for insulation and construction materials.

In contrast, while chrysotile (one of the forms of asbestos) and serpentine (the group of minerals that includes chrysotile) are directly related to asbestos and carry the associated health risks, talc does not provide an appropriate substitute as it serves different industrial roles and does not have the necessary fibrous properties. This makes wollastonite the ideal choice for replacing asbestos in various industrial applications.