Ultrafine particles at workplaces of a primary aluminium smelter

Abstract

The number concentration and size distribution of ultrafine particles in a Søderberg and a prebake potroom of an aluminium primary smelter have been measured using a scanning mobility particle spectrometer. The particle morphology was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The study shows the existence of elevated number concentrations of ultrafine particles in both potrooms. The main source of these particles is likely to be the process of anode changing. The ultrafine particles were measured directly at the source but could also be identified as episodes of high number concentrations in the general background air. Unlike the larger particles belonging to the 50-100 nm mode, the nanoparticle mode could not be detected in the TEM indicating that they may not be stable under the applied sampling conditions and/or the high vacuum in the instrument.

Development of a job-exposure matrix for exposure to total and fine particulate matter in the aluminum industry

“…What does exist is focused either on particle morphology or particle aging in smelters (22,23). Although respirable particulate, inhalable particulate, and total particulate concentrations have been reported, these have focused on a few potroom jobs (14,16).…”

Exposure Assessment for Ambient Ultrafine Particles

“…Asphalt workers are exposed to UFPs not only from traffi c but also from asphalt paving (Elihn et al, 2008 ). Exposure to UFPs at the workplace may also be high due to indoor sources, which are common in many industrial workplaces, for example, in metal foundries and smelters, and engine machining facilities Thomassen et al, 2006 ;Evans et al, 2008 ), where combustion or " hot " processes take place. UFPs are produced, for example, in welding, metal grinding, smelting, and brazing.…”

“…UFPs are produced, for example, in welding, metal grinding, smelting, and brazing. Concentrations at workplaces can be higher than in any other microenvironment, even above 1,000,000 cm − 3 (Thomassen et al, 2006 ).…”

Evaluation and control of occupational health risks from nanoparticles

“…The authors concluded that no carbon black is released in the reactor and pelletizing areas (as ultrafine or PM 10 ) from the closed production lines under normal operating conditions. Thomassen et al (2006) measured particle concentrations in an aluminium smelter. During anode change they found a strong number mode below 10 nm as well as a mode in the range 50-100 nm.…”