What is the pulmonary toxicity of these substitutes compared to silica sand?
RDRP scientists started the evaluation of substitute materials with a literature search of data concerning the toxicity of abrasive substitutes. Significant knowledge gaps were noted. Therefore, in vitro testing of toxicity was conducted and acute in vivo testing of toxicity. Data were published in the peer-reviewed literature and presented to industrial stakeholders and other interested parties. The evaluation of substitute materials for silica sand in abrasive blasting proceeded through conducting controlled test blasting. The costs of substitute materials were evaluated and the effectiveness of the substitute materials as abrasives was determined. Airborne elemental metals generated during use of the substitutes were also measured. Outputs and Transfers RDRP results of determinations of costs and effectiveness of substitute materials and the comparative toxicities with silica sand were disseminated through at least seven publications. The publications included four key reports publi
