Asbestos vs. Fibreglass — What's the Difference?

Asbestos (pronounced: or ) is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral. There are six types, all of which are composed of long and thin fibrous crystals, each fibre being composed of many microscopic "fibrils" that can be released into the atmosphere by abrasion and other processes.

Silica based glass extruded into fibers that possess a length at least 1000 times greater than their width.

Any of six incombustible chemical-resistant silicate minerals, including one serpentine (chrysotile) and five amphiboles (amosite, crocidolite, and fibrous forms of actinolite, anthophyllite, and tremolite), that separate easily into long, thin, flexible fibers and that have been widely used commercially in products such as fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, and chemical filters. Mining and use of asbestos has been restricted because inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause asbestosis and cancer.

Ellipsis of fibreglass wool

Fabric or material containing any of these mineral forms.

A composite material made from fine fibres of spun glass held together with resin.

Of, made of, or containing one of these six mineral forms.

To apply fibreglass to.

(mineral) Any of several fibrous mineral forms of magnesium silicate, used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, chemical filters, suits, fireman's gloves, etc.

Same as fiberglass.

(mineral) Any of asbestos-like forms of several minerals, asbestiforms

A covering material made of glass fibers in resins

To coat or line with asbestos.

To expose to asbestos; to cause to suffer asbestosis.

(metaphoric) To insulate or buffer.

A fibrous amphibole; used for making fireproof articles; inhaling fibers can cause asbestosis or lung cancer