Nonrespirability of Carbon Fibers in Rats from Repeated Inhalation Exposure
Abstract
Carbon fibers are light weight, high tensile strength synthetic fibers widely used in aircraft, and as the applications for carbon fiber expand, so does the probability of worker exposure via inhalation and skin contact. Although there have been numerous in vitro and in vivo studies addressing the health hazards from carbon fiber exposure, few inhalation studies have been conducted. The purpose of this study was to determine if the 3.5 micron diameter carbon fibers were respirable and if there were any deleterious upper respiratory or irritant effects from repeated exposure. Groups of male Fischer 344 rats were exposed by inhalation to three concentrations of carbon fibers for 1 hr per day for 9 days with one weekend without exposure. Sonic nozzle air- exposed rats served as the control. Exposed rats and respective groups of controls were submitted for lavage and biochemical, physiological and pathological evaluation at 24 hr, 14 days, and 3 months post-exposure (pe). Keywords: Carbon fiber, Graphite fiber, Composites, Inhalation, Respirability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA228196
Entities
People
- D. Mattie
- R. J. Hilaski
- R. Wright
- S. A. Thomson