Which type of asbestos is most commonly used in insulation materials?

Chrysotile, also known as "white asbestos," is the most commonly used type of asbestos in insulation materials. Its popularity stems from its unique properties, such as remarkable flexibility, durability, and resistance to heat, making it particularly effective for thermal insulation in buildings and electrical applications. Chrysotile accounts for a significant percentage of all asbestos used around the world, historically being favored in a variety of construction and insulation contexts.

In contrast, amosite (brown asbestos) and anthophyllite (rarely used) present different properties and have been utilized less frequently in insulation applications. Amosite has been used in thermal insulation products but is not as prevalent as chrysotile. Tridymite, however, is not an asbestos type but a silica mineral, which does not relate to asbestos insulation at all. Understanding the distinct characteristics of chrysotile and its dominance in the industry highlights why it is the correct answer in this context.