Is filter aid diatomite carcinogenic? Is any silica fine powder carcinogenic?

16 January 2013 1 5K Report

We want to try to filter aid diatomite or sludge dewatering. I am concerned about the safety issue the diatomite could cause. I have heard that the diatomite could cause lung cancer by inhaling it. I am also wondering if other filter aids such as perlite, cellulose, etc. could do the same thing to people.

Roman Sidorov

Carcinogenicity of fine chemically neutral powders upon pulmonary intake is generally connected to reactive oxygen species released by macrophages attacking the particles. Perhaps, it wouldn't be carcinogenic upon taking it with food, at least if it didn't sorb some other carcinogen.

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