Aircraft Corrosion Control: Assessment and Reduction of Chromate Exposures
Abstract
The corrosion inhibitor of choice in the Air Force is hexavalent chromium (CrVI). CrVI is present in aircraft coating pretreatments as chromic acid and in primers as metallic chromates. Worker exposures to chromate compounds can occur during application of the pretreatment and primer. In addition, depainting (removal of old organic coatings) and mechanical sanding of existing coating systems can release particulates that contain chromates from previously-applied primers. These particulates can also present a CrVI exposure risk. Cr VII compounds have been linked to occupational diseases, specifically dermatitis, nasal irritation, and lung cancer. Water soluble CrVI compounds, such as chromic acid, are confirmed human carcinogens; metallic chromates are considered either confirmed or suspected human carcinogens, depending on the specific metal attached to the chromate. Over the last three years, the industrial Hygiene Branch of the Air Force institute for Environment, Safety and Occupational Health Risk Analysis (AFIERA) collaborated with the Air Force Structural Maintenance community to identify improved methods to reduce CrVIj exposures during corrosion control procedures. We completed a series of field evaluations at Shaw, Cannon, Holloman, Nellis, Hill, Robins, Tinker, and McChord AFBs, and a chromate reduction study at Shaw and Cannon. This technical report summarizes our recommended sampling methodology, data interpretation, and chromate reduction techniques to reduce chromate exposures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA382245
Entities
People
- Ellen E. England
- Gary N. Carlton