New Monograph on Elongate Mineral Particles Authored by C&IH

A newly published book examines elongate mineral particles (EMPs), including asbestos and non-asbestos mineral fibers, with a focus on mineralogical characterization, classification frameworks, exposure assessment considerations, toxicological evaluation, and risk analysis in occupational and environmental settings.

Co-authored by C&IH’s Dr. Andrey Korchevskiy and Dr. Ann Wylie, Elongate Mineral Particles: Characterization, Classification, and Risk Analysis was published in 2026 by CRC Press. The book addresses both asbestiform and non-asbestiform EMPs and reflects current scientific approaches used to evaluate these mineral agents across a range of occupational, environmental, and regulatory contexts.

The 370-page publication is intended for industrial hygienists, toxicologists, geologists, risk assessors, and regulatory professionals involved in the evaluation of asbestos, elongate mineral particle, and mineral fiber exposures and associated health risks. It contributes to the scientific and technical literature supporting exposure and risk evaluation for mineral particles and integrates mineralogy, exposure science, and risk assessment methodologies to support technically grounded interpretation of complex particle data.

The book covers the following aspects of the science of EMPs:

• Geological origin and mineralogy of asbestiform fibers and non-asbestiform fragments;
• Analytical methods used to characterize EMPs;
• Toxicology and carcinogenic potential of elongate mineral particles and characteristics driving the toxicity;
• Determination of the role of length, width, and other dimensional parameters in the toxicological qualities of EMPs;
• Methods to classify EMPS as asbestiform vs. non-asbestiform;
• Behavior of EMPs in the human respiratory system;
• Regulatory practices on EMPs and need for improvements; and
• Case studies on risk assessment for EMPs.

The publication has been reviewed by recognized experts in clinical pathology and exposure science:

“Elongate Mineral Particles: Characterization, Classification, and Risk Analysis is the definitive text that our profession has needed for decades. It will fundamentally shape our understanding and approach to one of the most critical challenges in occupational and environmental health. This is not just an academic exercise but also a foundation of rational risk assessment and public policy. It is certain to become the standard reference in the field.”

Dr. Shu-Chun Su
Independent Researcher

“This outstanding text is a must read for anyone who is interested in the potential for elongate mineral particles in disease causation. The authors, who are well-recognized experts in the field, provide a thorough and mathematically rigorous analysis of the factors that are related to pathogenesis and carcinogenesis as a consequence of fiber exposures.”

Dr. Victor Roggli
Professor of Pathology
Duke University Medical Center

Contributors of book chapters include Dr. Brooke T. Mossman of the University of Vermont, Arseniy Korchevskiy of C&IH, Kelly Beiley of Kelly Beiley Consulting, and Dr. Richard Attanoos of the University of Cardiff in the United Kingdom.

Additional information about the publication is available from CRC Press.