The structure of volcanic cristobalite in relation to its toxicity; relevance for the variable crystalline silica hazard

• Published in: Particle and fibre toxicology Vol. 9; no. 1; p. 44
• Main Authors: Horwell, Claire J, Williamson, Benedict J, Donaldson, Ken, Le Blond, Jennifer S, Damby, David E, Bowen, Leon
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England BioMed Central 19.11.2012; BioMed Central Ltd; BMC
• Subjects: Cristobalite; Crystalline silica; Humans; Lava; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Mineralogy; Occupational safety; Quartz; Quartz - analysis; Regulations; Respiratory health; Silicon Dioxide - analysis; Silicon Dioxide - chemistry; Silicon Dioxide - toxicity; Soufrière Hills; Variable hazards; Volcanic ash; Volcanic Eruptions; Volcano; Volcanoes

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) continues to pose a risk to human health worldwide. Its variable toxicity depends on inherent characteristics and external factors which influence surface chemistry. Significant population exposure to RCS occurs during volcanic eruptions, where ashfall may cover h...