Evaluation of the Potential Health Hazards Associated with the Machining of Carbon Fiber Composites.
Abstract
Industrial hygiene surveys were conducted to assess personnel exposures to carbon fibers and carbon/epoxy composite dust during carbon composite airframe sanding operations. The operation is currently performed every two to three weeks for eight hours at a time. The nature and frequency of operation performance is expected to change as more composite aircraft are put into service. The health implications of carbon composite particulate exposure are not well understood. Good industrial hygiene practices, however, suggest that exposure levels be kept to a minimum. Recommendations for reducing personnel exposure have been made. To characterize the composite debris, a particle size distribution and fiber dimension analyses were done. Additionally, several organizational standards relating to carbon composite particulates were evaluated. A recommendation for reducing the applicable Coast Guard standards has been made. Other potential hazards identified were exposure to solvents during lay-up procedures, and to primer dust during sanding work. Both require further evaluation to determine the extent of the exposure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA194835
Entities
People
- Michael A. Zustra
Organizations
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill