Occurrence and characterization of asbestos minerals in the area of San Severino Lucano (Basilicata, Southern Italy)

Serpentinites are metamorphic rocks used for building and ornamental purposes since ancient times but they can contain asbestos minerals, thus currently their use is limited or banned in several countries. In this study we have investigated the possible presence of asbestos contained in the serpentinitic rocks outcropping near San Severino Lucano (Basilicata, Southern-Italy). Serpentinites have been characterized in detail combining different analytical techniques in order to detect asbestos minerals that maybe potentially harmful for human health.