Uses And Health Effects Of Silicon And Silicones

Silicon is a member of Group 14 (IVA) in the periodic table ands also part of the carbon family that includes elements: carbon, germanium, tin, and lead. Silicon is a metalloid, one of only a very few elements that have characteristics of both metals and non-metals. Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, exceeded only by oxygen. Silicon never occurs as a free element. It is always combined with one or more other elements as a compound.  Many rocks and minerals contain silicon; their examples include sand, quartz, clays, flint, amethyst, opal, mica, feldspar, garnet, tourmaline, asbestos, talc, zircon, emerald, and aquamarine.

By the early 1800s, silicon was recognized as an element. But chemists had serious problems preparing pure silicon because it bonds tightly to oxygen. It took chemists many years to find out how to separate silicon from oxygen. That task was finally accomplished in 1823 by Swedish chemist Jons Jakob Berzelius (1779-1848). Silicon’s most important application is in electronic equipment. Silicon is one of the best materials from which to make transistors and computer chips. The total weight of silicon used for this purpose is relatively small. Much larger amounts are used, for example, to make metal alloys.  

In one sense, humans have always used silicon. Nearly every naturally occurring rock or mineral contains some silicon. So when ancient peoples built clay huts or sandstone temples, they were using compounds of silicon. But no one thought about silicon as an element until the nineteenth century. Then, a number of chemists tried to separate silicon from the other elements with which it is combined in the earth. English scientist Sir Humphry Davy (1778-1829) developed a technique for separating elements that tightly bond to each other. He melted these compounds and passed an electric current through them. The technique was successful for producing free or elemental sodium, potassium, calcium, and a number of other elements for the first time. But he failed with silicon.  

Berzelius also tried to isolate silicon using a method similar to that of Davy’s. He mixed molten (melted) potassium metal with a compound known as potassium silicon fluoride (K2SiF6). The result was a new element, namely silicon. Scottish chemist Thomas Thomson (1773-1852) suggested the name silicon, based on the Latin word for “flint,” silex (or silids). He added the ending -on because the new element was so much like boron and carbon. Thus, the new element’s name was accepted as silicon.

Some interesting studies were done on silicon over the next few years. German chemist Friedrich Wohler (1800-82) produced a series of compounds known as silanes. These compounds contain silicon, hydrogen, and, sometimes, other elements. The simplest silane is silicon tetrahydride (SiH4. This compound is also called silane. A group of compounds known as the siloxanes were produced at about the same time. The siloxanes are made up of silicon, oxygen, and an organic group.  

Silanes and siloxanes were not discovered in the search for the answer to any practical question. Chemists were just curious about the kinds of compounds they could make with silicon. But many years later, chemists made some interesting discoveries. Both groups of compounds do have some very important practical uses. For example, the compounds known as silicones are a form of the siloxanes.

Silicon, a metalloid, an element with properties of both metals and non-metals, exists in two allotropic forms. One allotrope is in the form of shiny, grayish-black, needle-like crystals, or flat plates. The second allotrope has no crystal structure and usually occurs as a brown powder. With melting point of 1,410°C (2,570°F), boiling point of 2,355°F (4,270°F), and density of 2.33 grams per cubic centimeter, silicon has a hardness of about 7 on the Mohs scale that is a way of expressing the hardness of a material. It runs from 0 (for talc) to 10 (for diamond). Silicon is a semiconductor. A semiconductor is a substance that conducts an electric current better than a non-conductor—like glass or rubber—but not as well as a conductor—like copper or aluminum. Semiconductors have important applications in the electronics industry.

Silicon is a relatively inactive element at room temperature. It does not combine with oxygen or most other elements. Water, steam, and most acids have very little effect on the element. At higher temperatures, however, silicon becomes much more reactive. In the molten (melted) state, for example, it combines with oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and other elements. It also forms a number of alloys very easily in the molten state.

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. Its abundance is estimated to be about 27.6 percent of the crust. It ranks second only to oxygen. Some authorities believe that more than 97 percent of the crust is made of rocks that contain compounds of silicon and oxygen. Silicon has been detected in the Sun and stars. It also occurs in certain types of meteorites known as aerolites or “stony meteorites.” Meteorites are rock-like chunks that fall to the Earth’s surface from outside the Earth’s atmosphere.

Silicon never occurs as a free element in nature. It always occurs as a compound with oxygen, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, or other elements. The most common minerals are those that contain silicon dioxide in one form or another. These are known as silicates. Silicon has been detected in the Sun and stars. It also occurs in certain types of meteorites. There are three naturally occurring isotopes of silicon: silicon-28, silicon-29, and silicon-30. None of the radioactive isotopes of silicon has any commercial use.

Silicon is prepared by heating silicon dioxide with carbon. Carbon replaces the silicon in the compound. The silicon formed is 96 to 98 percent pure. Many applications of silicon require a very pure product. Methods have been developed to produce silicon that is at least 99.97 percent pure silicon. This form of silicon is called hyper-pure silicon.  Perhaps the best known use of silicon is in electronic devices. Hyper pure silicon is used in transistors and other components of electronic devices. It is also used to make photovoltaic (solar) cells, rectifiers, and parts for computer circuits. While a photovoltaic cell is a device that converts sunlight into electrical energy, a rectifier is an electrical device for changing one kind of electric current (alternating current, or AC) into another kind of electric current (direct current, or DC). Almost without exception, all glass contains silicon dioxide.

The largest single use of silicon, however, is in making alloys. The most important silicon alloys are those made with iron and steel, aluminum, and copper. When silicon is produced, in fact, scrap iron and metal is sometimes added to the furnace. As soon as the silicon is produced, it reacts with iron and steel to form ferrosilicon, an alloy of iron or steel and silicon. It is used for two major purposes. First, it can be added to steel to improve the strength and toughness of the steel. Second, it can be added during the steel-making process to remove impurities from the steel that is being made.

The aluminum industry uses large amounts of silicon in alloys. These alloys are used to make molds and in the process of welding. Welding is a process by which two metals are joined to each other. Alloys of silicon, aluminum, and magnesium are very resistant to corrosion (rusting). They are often used in the construction of large buildings, bridges, and transportation vehicles such as ships and trains. A number of silicon compounds have specialized uses. Silicon dioxide (sand) is used in the manufacture of glass, ceramics, abrasives, as a food additive, in water filtration systems, as an insulating material, in cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals (drugs), and in the manufacture of paper, rubber, and insecticides. Each of these applications could be the subject of a very long discussion in and of itself. For example, humans have made glass for thousands of years. Today, dozens of different kinds of glass are produced, each with special properties and uses. But almost without exception, they all contain silicon dioxide.

Another important compound is silicon carbide (SiC) which is also known as carborundum, one of the hardest substances known, with a hardness of about 9.5 on the Mohs scale. Carborundum is widely used as an abrasive, a powdery material used to grind or polish other materials. Carborundum also has refractory properties. A refractory material can withstand very high temperatures by reflecting heat. Refractory materials are used to line the inside of ovens used to maintain very high temperatures.

Another important silicon group is the silicones. The silicones have an amazing range of uses. These include toys (Silly Putty and Super balls), lubricants, weatherproofing materials, adhesives (glues), foaming agents, brake fluids, cosmetics, polishing agents, electrical insulation, and materials to reduce vibration, shields for sensitive equipment, surgical implants, and parts for automobile engines. Information on the health effects of silicon is limited. Some studies show that silicon may be needed in very small amounts by plants and some animals. One study showed, for example that chickens that did not receive silicon in their diet developed minor health problems. Overall, silicon probably has no positive or negative effects on human health. However, a serious health problem called silicosis is associated with silicon dioxide (SiO2). Silicon dioxide occurs in many forms in the earth. Ordinary sand is nearly pure silicon dioxide.

In some industries, sand is ground up into a very fine powder that gets into the air. As workers inhale the dust, it travels through their mouths, down their throats, and into their lungs. Silicon dioxide powder can block the tiny air passages in the lungs through which oxygen and carbon dioxide pass; when this happens, silicosis results. Silicosis is similar to pneumonia. The person finds it difficult to breathe. The longer one is exposed to silicon dioxide dust, the worst the problem gets. In the worst cases, silicosis results in death because of the inability to breathe properly.

About the Author

Dr. Badruddin Khan teaches Chemistry in the University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India. He loves to strive hard for the cause of society, particularly, the building blocks of the soiety, the students.

Health Effects Asbestos is a post from: Master

I’m looking for more info on Mesothelioma Law suits in St.Louis, MO.?

I’m looking for more info on Mesothelioma law suits in St.Louis, MO.

You can get a little information at http://www.mesolawsuit.com/locations/missouri/st-louis-mesothelioma-attorney.aspx. I would also recommend calling the firm that runs this site. Their number is 800-781-3955. They handle mesothelioma and Asbestos Cases nationally and can probably give you whatever info you need.

Asbestos Lawyers in San Francisco CA Mesothelioma Law Firm

Mesothelioma Law is a post from: Master

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How do I pull up a linoleum floor off asbestos tiles?

I want to put ceramic tile down on the whole floor in my basement, but one section has linoleum floor that was professionally installed. I want to pull it up so my floor can be even when I put down the ceramic tile.

you have to have a professional remove it . because you have to wear protective clothing and it has to be disposed of properly.

Asbestos Linoleum Floors is a post from: Master

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asbestos in 1975 popcorn ceilings?

i want to scrap some popcorn ceilings smooth in my 1975 home. should i be worried about asbestos?

I just finished a remodel on my house and we scraped all of the popcorn ceilings. The dust and asbestos will make you cough, but the dust will wear off in about a month ( I know it did for me). The Asbestos is dangerous for your lungs, but it being up on the ceiling has the same effects as it being scrapped off.
I really suggest you have your ceilings scraped. Asbestos can harm you, so the sooner it comes off your ceiling the better, also, my house now look great there is no eyesore when you look up; just smooth ceilings.

Aircraft Carriers

Asbestos Ceilings is a post from: Master

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Mesothelioma Therapeutic Library
As of June 30th 2010, the Mesothelioma Therapeutic Video Library for MesoCare.org is available. Lectures include topics on surgery, chemotherapy, Radiation and others. This series was designed as an educational resource for patients, family, and healthcare providers. The lectures are also available via DVD by request. (PRWeb Jul 2, 2010) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com …

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Deadly Mesothelioma: Litigations Against Asbestos

What made asbestos so popular in the construction industries on the verge of the twentieth century? There were definitely some features present in asbestos that gave it an edge over all other materials to be used in construction in the heavy industries.

* Asbestos was first of all a fire-resistant mineral.

* Asbestos was good as an insulating agent as well as conduction of electricity.

* The most valid reason that made asbestos so popular was it being too cheap.

There was no problem in using asbestos as a great resource in the industries. But when it was traced that asbestos had some severe adverse effects on the human health, opposition in the use of asbestos began from that stage. It was revealed in front of the whole world that asbestos is the real cause behind the deadly cancer called Mesothelioma.

Taking millions of lives

What do the figures state? Around 1.3 million workers of different construction sites only in the U.S. are suffering from deadly Mesothelioma. This is the report placed by the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Among these some are suffering from Pleural Mesothelioma, some from Peritoneal Mesothelioma and the rest are the victims of Pericardial Mesothelioma.

Though legal steps have been taken against the sue of asbestos in different industrial sectors and the victims have filed legal cases against their employers, yet a total ban has not been implemented on the use of asbestos by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Litigation proceedings

There is a good sign in the cases related to Asbestos Mesothelioma. It is nearly eighty years from now that law stated taking concern of the Mesothelioma problem and there are such exemplary cases where the victim has won millions as compensation.

One interesting point has come up to the limelight. By paying compensations some of the leading asbestos manufacturing companies are facing severe financial crisis. In the history of legally winning compensation amounts, the Mesothelioma case has touched its zenith perhaps when one gentleman has been compensated an amount of $2.3 million. So this at least raises hope and confidence in all those millions of people suffering from Mesothelioma where they have been made the scapegoat for company’s profit.

Several Legislation Acts have also been passed related to this matter of concern such as “Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2005″. These acts help to settle down the matter and help the victims to get higher amounts in terms of compensation.

About the Author

Find more Mesothelioma and asbestos info online.
For Credit repair related articles: http://www.credit-repair-fyi.info

Meat Beat Manifesto – asbestos Lead Asbestos

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Massive fire in empty London Warehouse?

The Warehouse was scheduled for demolition today as part of the 2012 Olympic reconstruction. A report on the BBC said asbestos had been found but it was considered an accident.
Do you really believe that?
I just wonder how the insurance works for the contractors. If there is a fire then the fire brigade will I understand be responsible for making the site safe after a fire before contractors are allowed back in. So the fire brigade now clear The Asbestos? They may well charge the contractor for the cost, but does that mean the contractor can claim from insurance taken out?
Just an idea, I wonder if the fire will be investigated as there were no injuries?

That seems to happen an awful lot, mysterious fires in empty Warehouses ready to be Demolished. It happens in Ireland an awful lot ,especially if its a Protected Georgian building and Developers want to build Apartments or Office Block,and the Plans Contravene the Planning Laws.A lot goes on the QT a few Blind Eyes are turned by Councillors and Local Government Representatives and no Proper Investigations are carried out.Recently there was a Fire in an Old Abandoned Warehouse in the Town of Bray in Wicklow, and the Part time Fire brigade turned up with Two men Short. There should be Six men by Regulations but they had no choice and had to go with four, and two lost there Lives when the Ceiling came down on them. The People of Bray were demanding a full time Fire Service for Years and the Town Council refused to provide one. Now there is Uproar from the Towns People and the Family of the Two men. Especially as the Warehouse was an Empty Defunct Factory ,and there was no need for the men to put there lives at risk.Incidentally a few Representatives of the American Fire Service, I think it was FDNY New York Paid there Respects at the Funeral which I think was very nice of them.

BBC Breakfast On Asbestos (22/02/10)

Asbestos Bbc is a post from: Master

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Coastal NSW residents at risk of exposure after recent tornado. 29 Jun 2010 4:53 PM
Mesothelioma Lawsuits and Claims – Mesothelioma Law Suits

Mesothelioma Regulations is a post from: Master

]]> Found Asbestos in my rental home in Newport News Virginia. Landlord didn’t disclose what can I do?

I moved into a home in Sept. that is an older colonial style home and recently found out there is asbestos in it and lead based paint I am sure ( as there are multiple coats and some which are much older) I am more concerned about The Asbestos personally. The asbestos isn’t sealed is inside our home and we have drilled into it not knowing it was asbestos and it is deteriorating so I know that it is airborne. Our other shower broke a month ago and we told the landlord and she still hasn’t fixed it so we only have this bathroom to use! I have also read that smoking around this is very dangerous and harmful as OSHA strictly prohibits it and such and our roommate smokes cigarettes and we have a hookah. I am a bit worried. What are my rights here? The landlord didn’t disclose the asbestos and we didn’t sign the disclosure that is required by law. Has anyone had anything similar happen?

Disclosures in VA are for mold and lead paint, not asbestos. Also, these require a certain number of units to be applicable. If the asbestos is such that you have to drill to expose it, there is little hazard, you just need to leave it alone. OSHA does not prohibit asbestos already in place, it just has to be managed. You don’t mention how you know it is asbestos and lead paint. WIthout lab testing you are just guessing. Many layers, usually does not indicate lead paint. You could have each tested by a local lab to confirm. You may be worrying about nothing.

Osha Asbestos Signs is a post from: Master

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Lobby renovations delayed as NYSED ‘drags its feet’
The school will have to wait to do its renovations of the school lobby, Business Leader Sam Schneider reported at the School Board’s June 14 meeting, because of delays in a New York State Education Department (NYSED) approval. The school was hoping to complete the renovations this summer.
and we were once

Asbestos Exterior is a post from: Master

]]> Pleural Mesothelioma and Pleural Diseases

Pleural mesothelioma starts in the lungs. The pleura is a membrane around the lungs and is inside the chest. Whenever doctors refer to “pleural” or “pleura” this is the area they are talking about. Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms are similar to many other pleural diseases and cancers. Pleural disease is often one of the early mesothelioma stages of pleural mesothelioma.

Pleural mesothelioma and pleural diseases begin by attacking this membrane, which makes it more difficult to breathe. Chest pain is a very common mesothelioma symptom; however it is also a symptom of many pleural diseases, including pleural mesothelioma. Both benign (not progressing) and malignant (progressing and getting worse) pleural diseases and pleural mesothelioma will produce symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. This is because the natural fluid that flows between the outer shell of your lung and the membrane over it (the parietal pleura) gets interrupted.

The fluid in this “pleura space” keeps your lungs breathing smooth and rhythmically when it’s flowing peacefully. It revolves in a continuous state of production and removal. When asbestos enters the lungs and chest and mesothelioma symptoms begin, the balance disappears and excess fluid accumulates. The fluidity of breathing disappears, and the pleural disease begins making breathing difficult. When there is excess fluid in the pleural space, it’s called pleural effusion. Pleural effusion can be one of the early mesothelioma stages, but if you have pleural effusion, that does not mean you have pleural mesothelioma.

Pleural diseases are not rare. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, statistics published in British medical journals show that there is likely a 50% chance that you will have a pleural disease. Pleural disease is also common in many cancers, including breast cancer and lung cancer – it is not relegated to pleural mesothelioma or Malignant Mesothelioma. Medical journals report that 40% of cancer patients experience pleural effusion. In asbestos related pleural effusion, pleural effusion is sometimes followed by one of the next mesothelioma stages, diffuse pleural thickening.

Diffuse pleural thickening and pleural mesothelioma are not as common as pleural effusion and pleural plaques. Pleural plaques can occur from a brief exposure to asbestos, but may not be observed until 20 years later. Diffuse pleural thickening can be noticed anywhere from 3 years to 40 years after Asbestos Exposure, although it may occur as soon as a year after asbestos exposure. Medical tests must be given to determine the extent of the disease, and to monitor the progression which would indicate the likelihood of pleural mesothelioma or other malignant mesothelioma. For malignant pleural mesothelioma, the disease could be latent for 40 years or more. But pleural effusion is often diagnosed first, and can sometimes be noticed as early as a year after asbestos exposure. The degree of calcification (similar to a hardening) often determines how early the pleural disease can be identified. However, the stages of pleural calcification and mesothelioma stages of malignant mesothelioma will differ with each individual.

Pleural mesothelioma or pleural disease is not unlikely if you’ve been exposed to asbestos. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, even for short time, and are having chest pain, it is important to start with chest x-rays to be able to monitor the progression of the disease. Medical tests for pleural diseases and pleural mesothelioma have the potential to halt the progression of malignant pleural mesothelioma as best as today’s medical discoveries allow. Early mesothelioma treatment lengthens Mesothelioma Life Expectancy. Medical tests for pleural mesothelioma should start with any signs of pleural disease. Your doctor must know you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Find a pulmonologist or oncologist who is familiar with asbestos pleural diseases such as pleural mesothelioma and get the early mesothelioma treatment that you and your family deserve.

About the Author

The website provides mesothelioma information, such as

mesothelioma symptoms, mesothelioma treatments and mesothelioma stages. The site also provided details

information about different type of mesothelioma: Malignant Mesothelioma, Pleural Mesothelioma, Pericardial Mesothelioma and Peritoneal Mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Stages

Asbestos Mesothelioma Life Expectancy is a post from: Master

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Taunton’s bond rating gets a boost
The timing couldn’t have been better, according to city treasurer/collector Jayne Ross.
Asbestos Gymnasium Q&A@170 wpm, 5 mins.

Reporting Asbestos is a post from: Master

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Whitney Tilson’s Bull Case On BP
There are some, like Pimco and Whitney Tilson’s T2, who enjoy talking their book, and demonstrating they just love to live dangerously by buying the stock of a company which has an U pside/ D ownside ratio of 1 (or 100% on both sides, with the government dead set on pushing the “equation” solidly to the D side). Then, there are those, who would rather go to Vegas, breathe in deeply some beta …
CANADA WALK ASBESTOS APR 2 2002

Asbestos Information Act is a post from: Master

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High Concentrations of Amosite Asbestos Fibers Can Cause Disease

Exposure to hazardous asbestos fibers has been linked to several deadly diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.  One interesting study is called, “Fiber burden and patterns of asbestos-related disease in workers with heavy mixed amosite and chrysotile exposure” by A Churg and S Vedal – Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. – Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med., Vol 150, No. 3, Sep 1994, 663-669.   Here is an excerpt: “To attempt to determine the mineralogic factors that relate to the appearance of specific types of asbestos-related disease in workers with heavy mixed exposure to amphiboles and chrysotile, we analyzed the pulmonary asbestos fiber burden in a series of 144 shipyard workers and insulators from the Pacific Northwest. Amosite was found in all lungs, and tremolite and chrysotile in most lungs, but the vast majority of fibers were amosite. Tremolite and chrysotile concentrations were significantly correlated, indicating that the tremolite originated from chrysotile products, but no correlation was found between tremolite or chrysotile concentration and amosite concentration. Time since last exposure was correlated with decreasing amosite concentration and the calculated clearance half time was about 20 yr. In a multiple regression analysis that accounted for the presence of more than one disease in many subjects, a high concentration of amosite fibers was correlated with the presence of airway fibrosis and asbestosis, whereas subjects with mesothelioma, lung cancer, pleural plaques, or no asbestos-related disease had about the same, much lower, amosite concentration. No relationship was found between the concentration of chrysotile or tremolite and any disease. Analysis of fiber size measures (length, width, aspect ratio, surface, mass) showed that pleural plaques were strongly associated with high aspect ratio amosite fibers and suggested that mesotheliomas were associated with low aspect ratio amosite fibers.”

Another interesting study is called, “Asbestos in Drinking Water and Cancer Incidence in the San Francisco Bay Area – by Marty S. Kanarek, Paul M. Conforti, Lorene A. Jackson, Robert C. Cooper, and Jack C. Murchio – American Journal of Epidemiology Vol. 112, No. 1: 54-72.  Here is an excerpt: “Age-adjusted, sex- and race-specific 1969–1971 cancer incidence ratios for the 722 census tracts of the San Francisco-Oakland Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area were compared with measured Chrysotile Asbestos counts in tract drinking waters. The water supplies serving the area have varying contact with naturally occurring serpentine. The t test for multiple regression coefficients and the t test for correlation coefficients showed significant (p << 0.01) relationships between chrysotile Asbestos Content of tract drinking water and white male lung, white female gall bladder and pancreas, and peritoneal cancers in both sexes. Of weaker significance (0.01 0.05) were female esophagus, pleura and kidney, as well as stomach cancers in both sexes. These associations appeared to be independent of income, education, asbestos occupation, marital status, country of origin and mobility.”

Another interesting study is called, “Asbestos-stimulated tumour necrosis factor release from alveolar macrophages depends on fibre length and opsonization” by Kenneth Donaldson, Xiao Yang Li, Shashi Dogra, Brian G. Miller, Geraldine M. Brown – The Journal of Pathology – Volume 168 Issue 2, Pages 243 – 248.  Here is an excerpt: “Abstract – Fibre length has been shown to be an important factor in the ability of respirable fibres to cause lung fibrosis and cancer. We have reported that a long sample of amosite asbestos is more carcinogenic and fibrogenic than a short sample of similar diameter. These amosite Asbestos Samples were studied with regard to their ability to stimulate the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor (TNF) from rat alveolar macrophages in vitro. The long fibre sample was found to stimulate substantially greater release of the cytokine than the short sample. Furthermore, on treatment of the fibres with rat immunoglobulin G (IgG), there was an increase in the ability of both the long and the short sample to stimulate TNF secretion, although the long sample retained by far the greatest activity. Coating of the fibres with a range of other proteins had no substantial effect on their ability to stimulate TNF secretion. Quartz and titanium dioxide (TiO2) were included as control particles and the TNF-stimulating activity of quartz was notably increased by opsonization with IgG. TiO2 showed a similar low activity to that of the short fibre sample of amosite but this again could be modestly increased by opsonization with IgG. The simulation of TNF release caused by treatment with immunoglobulin-opsonized long fibre amosite could be inhibited by treatment of the macrophages with the protein kinase C-inhibitor staurosporine. The study demonstrates a fibre length-related ability to stimulate cytokine secretion by alveolar macrophages, and its enhancement by opsonization with IgG. This is likely to be relevant to the relationship between fibre length and pathogenic potential to the lung.”

If you found any of these excerpts, please read them in their entirety.  We all owe a debt of gratitude to these researchers.

About the Author

Monty Wrobleski is the author of this article.  For more information please click on the following links

Mesothelioma Lawsuit Settlements,

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Lawsuit,

BP Oil Spill Class Action

More fun from 338 22nd St. Brooklyn…the day after

Respirators Asbestos is a post from: Master

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In what way is asbestos harmful to the people or the environment?

air pollution

Asbestos gives off tiny little pointy particles which lodge deep in people’s lungs and gradually kill them. As for the environment, well, it doesn’t do animals’ lungs any good, either. It’s been discovered to be so dangerous (after years of using it as fireproof insulation everywhere) that if you have an old building with Asbestos Insulation, they generally recommend covering it over very carefully and completely, rather than trying to remove it, which would put more particles into the air. Workers have to wear protective gear to remove it.

1 of 2: Risk based decision making introductory lecture

Asbestos Environment is a post from: Master

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I climbed into an attic with asbestos!?

I climbed into my attic for the first time and was holding alighter to see what was up there. I probably spent a total of 10 minutes in there before I noticed piles of Asbestos Where on the ground for insulation. I didnt disturb any of the piles or move around much in there to create much air current. How big of a problem is this?

no you did not,
asbestos wasn’t,t used as house insulation,
what you saw was either celoise [ground up paper] or rock wool, or fiberglass or vermilicite
your a worry wart

Advantage Home Inspections.

Asbestos Insulation In Attic is a post from: Master

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Mesothelioma – Is Cancer Hibernating in You?

Imagine a disease that lays eggs inside your lungs. These eggs
do not produce discomfort or coughing, they don’t cause
outbreaks or rashes or anything of the sort. In fact these eggs
don’t do anything except sit in your lungs and germinate for 30
to 40 years. After this time you begin to have a slight cough, a
fever, maybe some cold sweats. You write it off as the flu and
continue as usual until it goes away. 3 weeks later the flu is
back but this time you’re coughing up blood. You visit your
doctor and hope he can prescribe something to kick this crazy
flu. Your doctor runs a few tests and sends you home. A week
later your brought into his office and he lays the devastating
news on you…you have Mesothelioma a cancer of the lungs.

This is the reality for roughly 2000 men and women residing here
in the United States every year. These are people who often time
have lead healthy lives. In the article, “Mesothelioma Victims -
Survival Stories” Kathleen writes:

“At 42, I never thought that I would be facing a terminal
illness, especially one relating to the lungs. I’ve never smoked
and have lead a relatively healthy life. I have two beautiful
daughters who will be heading to college soon – and I may not be
alive to see their graduation.”

The primary cause of Mesothelioma Cancer is linked to exposure
to asbestos fibers which are breathed into the lungs or
swallowed. Asbestos is a material that was used heavily for many
years in hundreds of products. Asbestos was primarily used due
to the fact that it is strong, resists fire and corrosion, and
has very effective properties for insulation.

In modern day, asbestos has many uses such as thermal pipe and
boiler insulation, floor coverings, ceiling tiles, spray-applied
fire proofing and sound proofing, roofing materials and
“transite” pipe and sheeting. Though major public use was
discontinued in the late 70s, asbestos continues to be a
material used in countries outside of the U.S., and due to the
fact that we trade for many of these countries goods it is
necessary that we educate ourselves as to the materials used in
production of the products and items we use daily.

Many more cases of mesothelioma, due to Asbestos Exposure, are
beginning to surface today. First, because our understanding and
ability to recognize the disease has increased by leaps and
bounds over the years, and second, because this particular
cancer lays dormant within the carriers system for 30 to 40
years. With the widespread use of asbestos during the 20th
century we are starting to see the consequences of exposure to
this toxic material.

Due to the fact that asbestos was in heavy concentration in the
industrial and building trades during the mid 1900s, most
carriers of mesothelioma cancer are men who where working around
asbestos during that time. However, mesothelioma has been
reported not only in cases of direct exposure, but also
indirect, such as the families of these men, as they often
returned home with asbestos fibers on their clothing. Even in
today’s day and age where asbestos has been all but removed from
our lives, it is still possible to be diagnosed with
mesothelioma as cases of this cancer have been diagnosed without
the presence of asbestos exposure.

It is also important to note that smokers who have been exposed
to asbestos carry a far greater risk of mesothelioma. Some
figures suggest as much as 3 times the percentage of a
non-smoker with the same level of exposure. If you feel that you
have been exposed to asbestos set an appointment with your
physician to go over your chances of mesothelioma developing.
The best thing a mesothelioma patient can do is to detect the
presence of this disease early on, as it will increase your
chances considerably.

To find out the symptoms of mesothelioma and get more
information about this deadly form of respiratory cancer visit:
Mesotheliom
a Cancer

About the Author

Mike Andrews is a research specialist who writes informative and
news worthy articles focused on providing the public with
unbiased views and quality information. These articles stand to
improve public relations and branding for the businesses they
are associated with.

Mesothelioma Trial Verdict – San Francisco CA – July 2009

Asbestos Transite is a post from: Master

]]> Symptoms and Treatment for Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial Mesothelioma is a very rare form of cancer that is found in the lining of the heart. Doctors agree that it is exposure to asbestos that causes Pericardial Mesothelioma. Those who suffer from it tend to have been involved in the building and construction industry at some point in their lives as asbestos was used in great quantities up until a few years ago. Today the use of asbestos is banned as experts now realise the damaging effects that it can have on people who are exposed to it. Unfortunately however this does not help the thousands of people who used asbestos on a daily basis for much of their adult working lives. As Pericardial Mesothelioma is so rare, it is thought to be responsible for just 10% of all the cases of diagnosed mesothelioma each year.

Although it is recognised that it is exposure to asbestos that causes Pericardial Mesothelioma it is unknown as to exactly how the fibres of asbestos get into the pericardial lining. It is assumed by many doctors that when the microscopic fibres of asbestos are inhaled they go into the bloodstream and are absorbed. When this contaminated blood reaches the heart some of the fibres will adhere to the lining and remain there causing Pericardial Mesothelioma over time. As it can take time for this to happen and so it can take years and years before a person even realises that they have something wrong with them and often by this time it is too late. Statistics show that a great number of people will live with these kind of symptoms for an average of six months before they will seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma are problems with breathing which include being short of breath. Chest pains are also another sign of Pericardial Mesothelioma although this can be a symptom of other illnesses so further diagnostic testing has to be performed. These tests will usually take the form of biopsies of internal tissue and comprehensive scans of the patient’s body. From this an accurate diagnosis can be made as to whether a patient has Pericardial Mesothelioma or not.

As all the types of mesotheliona are so severe the outcome for a person who has Pericardial Mesothelioma is not good. Surgery is a no go area as this can significantly damage the area surrounding the tumour and cause even more problems. Instead it is important to attempt to maintain the quality of life for the patient and help them to be as comfortable as possible. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy programs can be used on some patients who have had an early diagnosis but this will not eliminate Pericardial Mesothelioma it will merely extend the life of a sufferer. In short Pericardial Mesothelioma is a deadly disease that results in fatalities and it is directly linked to exposure to asbestos in earlier life. Even with a prompt and accurate diagnosis, because of the nature of the disease, a patient will never recover from it.

About the Author

Looking for information about Mesothelioma? Our website provides many useful information including

Mesothelioma Symptoms, mesothelioma treatments and mesothelioma stages. The site also provided details information about different type of mesothelioma: Malignant Mesothelioma, Pleural Mesothelioma, Pericardial mesothelioma and Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Malignant Pleural, Peritoneal and Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial Mesothelioma is a post from: Master

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Asbestos – and You Thought it Was Banned?

Everyone seems to think that Asbestos was banned.  I mean, we know it is a toxic substance which causes deadly cancers and diseases like Asbestosis And Mesothelioma.  We know it kills people but why on earth would you think it was banned?  Is it possible that this deadly substance was never really banned?   Is it possible that Asbestos Containing products are still around us?

Here are the facts: Asbestos Kills over 10,000 men, woman and children every year.  Still today, Asbestos Containing Products are being manufactured and imported into the country. During 1971 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) listed asbestos as a Hazardous Air Pollutant.   At that time the EPA and OSHA started to restrict the uses of asbestos in products. Throughout the 1970‘s the EPA and US Government wanted to Ban Asbestos products but pressures from asbestos producers and the Canadian government sought to stop it.

During 1989, the EPA said it would phase out and ban up to 94% of all Products Containing Asbestos in consumer products by 1997.  The EPA said: “asbestos is a human carcinogen and is one of the most hazardous substances to which humans are exposed in both occupational and non-occupational settings.” The EPA had it correct – countless tests, studies and deaths already proved it.

So what happened?  It sounded like the US was being the great Leader of the world, like it usually is, and is banning and/or phasing out Asbestos Products.  Well the Asbestos Industry did not like the ban – it meant losing millions, or I should say billions of dollars.  So they filed lawsuits against the EPA and in 1991, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the ban.

Where do we stand now? Political pressures from various groups to keep asbestos products amongst us and some strong politicians who are trying to ban it are going on right now.  Legislation and bills are being created to finally ban ACB, Asbestos Containing Products.   Will it pass and finally be banned?  No one knows, but one thing is for sure;  there are less products being made with asbestos.  People are learning the truth about this toxic substance and the ban is closer to being realized than ever before.

About the Author

Mark Ralph is a prolific Author and Investigative journalist on the web where he writes about varied topics. He Researches Health & Nutrition and is an Expert in Investing, Marketing & Business. For Asbestos Information, click: Asbestos Products Learn about Mesothelioma and For Rare Asbestos Company Advertisements and Catalogs for Collectors or Litigation purposes, Click: Asbestos Catalogs.

Asbestos:silent killer

Government Asbestos is a post from: Master

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Types of Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer that affects the serous membranes surrounding the major organs of the body i.e. the lungs, heart and the abdominal organs, causing these vital organs to inflate with excessive fluid. This fluid further causes the improper functioning of the organs. The only known cause of this cancerous tumor is Asbestos Exposure. In this disease, malignant cells are built up in the protective linings (serous membranes) of several internal organs known as mesothelium. Different organs in the abdomen cavity can get affected by mesothelioma because of the presence of the protective linings surrounding them. The most common types of mesothelioma include:

* Pleural Mesothelioma,

* Peritoneal Mesothelioma, and

* Pericardial Mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma:

Pleural Mesothelioma is a tumor in which the lining of the lungs, or lung pleura, gets affected by malignant cells. The pleura is a soft protective tissue that surrounds the lungs in the chest cavity. It helps the lungs in breathing (respiration) by producing a serous fluid that lubricates the pleural surfaces to avoid the teasing of the lungs against the chest wall. The malignant cells, once entered the pleura, begin to spread and affect the surrounding organs and tissues. This leads to further complications resulting pain and severe symptoms.

Mesothelioma affecting pleura is of two categories:

Diffused or Malignant (Cancerous):

It is the serious form of pleural mesothelioma that affects the pleural lining of the lungs and its surrounding organs.

Localized and Benign (Non-cancerous):

It is the non-cancerous form of mesothelioma, which does not affect all parts of the body except the pleura. However, it constricts the lung causing shortness of breath, and in some severe cases, pneumothorax (lung failure).

Peritoneal Mesothelioma:

Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a tumor of the peritoneum membrane or the abdomen lining, affecting many organs in the abdominal cavity including stomach. This form of mesothelioma cancer is less common than the pleural form but is more aggressive, resulting severe symptoms and short life expectancy. Like many other cancers, peritoneal mesothelioma can also be either malignant or benign.

Pericardial Mesothelioma:

Pericardial or Pericardium Mesothelioma is the rarest form of cancer, counting less than 10% of mesothelioma cases. In this form of cancer, fluid gets accumulated in the sac that encloses the heart. The main cause of this disease is the inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Due to the rarity of this disease, doctors and researchers have not clearly understood how The Asbestos fibers enter the heart lining or pericardium. The only logical explanation so far about this form of cancer is the possibility of the asbestos fibers, converted into tiny pieces, transported from the lung into the heart by means of blood circulation. Once the asbestos fibers enter the heart, they expand the tissues in the chest cavity and the pericardium with excessive liquid, disrupting the working of the heart and causing chest pains with breathing disorders.

Each year, approximately 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed. At some point of their lives, the patients of mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos that later cause the hideous cancer of mesothelioma. If you, at some point of your life, have worked in an asbestos-rich environment or used any asbestos materials, you should contact a mesothelioma doctor for correct diagnosis and best treatment options available.

About the Author

For more information on mesothelioma and its related topics, go to: www.mesoblog.org.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms Described by Patient

Symptoms Mesothelioma is a post from: Master

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Workers in occupations involved in that manufacture and use of Asbestos Products were the subject of numerous?

Workers in occupations involved in that manufacture and use of asbestos products were the subject of numerous epidemiological studies prior to 1986 when stringent new laws were imposed regulating this substance. One conclusion of these studies was that these workers had a greatly increased risk of lung cancer. Can you think of another possible reason that might explain such findings and how this could be verified or disproved?

Perhaps the type of people who took jobs in asbestos plants tended to smoke cigarettes more than average.

Perhaps it was not The Asbestos, but some other portion of the process, a chemical used in the processing, for example.

Perhaps the places Where Asbestos Is Found is associated with other substances that could cause the cancers – uranium deposits, for example.

Perhaps the Asbestos Particles tend to get contaminated with another substance that is the actual culprit

Perhaps an unknown agent (I mean like chemical or other substance, not like secret agent) is the cause of the cancers, but the capability of scientists and the instruments available at that time were unable to detect the agent.

There are many possibilities.

You could create a hypothesis about each possibility as the cause of the cancers, then devise an experiment to test each hypothesis, following the basic rules of the scientific method.

Asbestos Lung Cancer Mesothelioma – Bakersfield Attorneys

Asbestos Lung Cancer is a post from: Master

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Maryland DOE finds three in violation of law
A company constructing a wind power project in Garrett County, an Allegany County demolition contractor and a private estate were all cited by the Maryland Department of the Environment for alleged violations of state law.
Mesothelioma Settlement gr8mesothelioma.info “Mesothelioma Settlement” (Mesothelioma Settlement)

Maryland Asbestos is a post from: Master

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Does My Ductwork Need Replacement or Just Cleaning

Are you wondering if you should replace your old ductwork or not. Are you concerned that the system is leaking air and wasting energy? I can tell you from experience that attics and crawl spaces are nasty places and there are things associated with ductwork that you simply do not want to know about. That includes but is not limited to everything from rodent fecal matter and urine, to squirrels, snail shells, raccoons, spiders, ants, sewage problems, standing water, rodent hair, rust, radon in sub floors, asbestos, bees, wasps and a whole slew of other things that you simply do not want in your home.

I was crawling in an attic a few weeks ago, next to this large 18″ duct and the smell of rodent urine was really quite asphyxiating. I had to crawl the whole length of this small attic, next to this duct that I new was being used by rodents as a highway across the attic. I accidentally bumped it and was inundated with so much fecal matter from rats and mice, that it felt like a big rain storm pounding down on me. This stuff is really nasty.

I was crawling through the attic, through this tight location to identify why the attic was so warm and why the opposite end of the home had no heat. It was obvious that there was a break in the ductwork, that air was leaking into the attic and that energy was being wasted. This duct system was made of wire flexible ductwork with a light grey plastic jacket. The jacket had separated due to heat over the years and I could see lots and lots of locations where the rats and other critters had torn off shreds of insulation to build nests with or what ever they do with it.

When I arrived at the break, it was at a junction where the ductwork split into three different direction. It was obvious that the ductwork had been connected using only duct tape and the glue on the tape had obviously dried out and separated from the metal and plastic. I found what had to be a few hundred dead broken snail shells inside of and around the broken ductwork. There were droppings from some critter there, that was not a mouse or a rat. There were pieces of long and short hair from some animal.

I did not repair the ductwork, I crawled out and informed the customer that it was simply time to replace the ductwork because of the health risks associated with its condition. The customer did not take my recommendation and simply eventually had another contractor repair the duct.

The customer was trying to get the problem fixed as cheaply as possible. I understand that, but there is no way I would have recommended the repair given the age of the system and the condition of the jacket, the amount of insulation missing and who knows what diseases the animal hair carries. I don’t think that the company who did the repair, did the customer any favors.

That’s one of the problems with this industry, even though something like the health and safety of the consumer may be at risk, there is always going to be a company or a small contractor who needs the work that will do things that others won’t, because they simply want the money. Perhaps his opinion of the ductwork was not as bad as mine and maybe he saw it differently. That customer had to make a choice. Perhaps I was not as convincing about the condition of the ductwork as his quote was for the repair.

You have to decide when to replace your old ductwork based on what your contractors will tell you, what your gut tells you and what makes sense. If repairing an old antiquated, rodent infested system makes sense to you, then you probably will decide not to repair it, but if the health and welfare of your family matter to you, then you will probably come to the conclusion that replacement is the only option.

If you would not crawl down in the sub floor or up in the attic to investigate the ductwork yourself, because you don’t like what may be down there then why would you risk having that stuff come into your home?

This customer found out that going cheap is not the best option, because yesterday he called me and asked me to give him a price to replace his ductwork system. I’m considering it.

About the Author

John Grisler
Heating Air Conditioning Refrigeration
23 years Field Experience Diagnosing Troubleshooting Repairing and Installing systems
Licensed Contractor since 1991
C-20 & C-36
Field of expertise – Residential & Light Commercial Air Conditionig and Heating
Expertise: High Efficiency residential Heating and Air Conditioning equipment installations and repairs. http://greenfeetco2.com/

Accurate Duct Cleaning

Ductwork Asbestos is a post from: Master