Erionite

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A naturally occurring, fibrous mineral consisting of white, prismatic crystals. Erionite is one of the more common types of zeolites that are found in the earth's crust. This mineral is used as a metal-impregnated catalyst, as a fertilizer, to control odors in livestock production and is used in animal feed, pet litter and horticultural applications. Excessive inhalation of its dust can cause pulmonary fibrosis or silicatosis and prolonged exposure to erionite causes mesothelioma in humans. It is known to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - Zeolite