Aluminum

Sources of element  It is one of the most abundant metals in the Earth’s crust, but is never found free in nature.  Two of the most common compounds are:  ((alum)) potassium aluminum sulfate (KAl(SO 4 ) 2 ·12H 2 O), which is used in a salt for water purification  aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), which is used in aluminum metal

Toxic effects and symptoms  If a human were to inhale a significant amount of Aluminum dusts, lung problems may begin to occur including coughing or abnormalities in chest X-rays.  An animal’s nervous system is more sensitive to the aluminum toxicity when ingested, whereas their ability to grip and function neurologically was greatly lessened by this intake of the element.

Toxic effects (cont.)  The EPA issued SMCL mg/L for aluminum in drinking water (this is not based on safety but more as the taste, smell and color)  The FDA believes that there is a safe amount in the foods so they have not changed it.  OSHA has set a limit of 15mg/m^3 (total dust) & 5mg/m^3 (respirable fraction) aluminum dusts during an 8 hour working period

Bibliography     Taylor Thomason