US Patent 7785555 Synthesis of lizardite from olivine

Methods of converting olivine to lizardite without formation of chrysotile or brucite are disclosed. The methods comprise heating a mixture of olivine, silica, water, and a caustic agent. The addition of silica allows for complete conversion of the olivine to lizardite through a more thermodynamically favorable reaction. The olivine and silica are preferably of small particle size to increase reactivity.