Talc

Abstract Talc is a natural mineral of the general chemical composition Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2 . The composition varies widely from one geological deposit to another and even within the same deposit. The main component, crystalline hydrated silicate of magnesium, is usually found as plates but rarely may also be found as fibers. In many talc deposits, other silicates such as the amphiboles, tremolite, and anthophyllite, as well as serpentines, antigorite, lizardite, and even chrysotile, may be present. This chapter discusses the health effects associated with talc without asbestos contaminants. Asbestos contaminants are to be distinguished from an asbestiform of talc that is covered in this chapter. However, a number of studies have been conducted to determine the health effects of talc in which the purity of the material was not known.