Abstract
Asbestos can be screened quickly in the field by a two-part test. In this test magnesium is liberated from chrysotile, and a blue-colored complex is formed; or iron is liberated from amosite or crocidolite, and a red-colored complex is formed. Before the acid wash steps were added to the procedure, the presence or absence of asbestos was correctly indicated in 126 out of 174 samples. Forty-eight samples gave false positive reactions, but since there were no false negative reactions, the test was considered practical. After adding the acid wash steps, the chemical test correctly indicated the presence or absence of asbestos in all 41 samples tested. There were no false positive or negative reactions. The results were verified by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, or dispersion staining.