Tungsten and its alloys may be associated with toxicity in some circumstances.
Routes of exposure:
(1) metal fume inhalation (during smelting or explosion)
(2) shrapnel
(3) soil and water contamination
Primary people at risk:
(1) industrial workers
(2) soldiers
(3) people living in a war zone
Adverse effects:
(1) pulmonary inflammation
(2) possible carcinogenic potential
The risk is increased with certain alloys such as Tungsten-Nickel-Cobalt (WNiCo).
