Coal fly ash (CFA) is formed by the combustion of coal. Although once released into the atmosphere attempts are now made to control its release.
The fly ash may contain:
(1) silicon dioxide
(2) aluminum oxide and aluminum silicate
(3) calcium oxide
(4) heavy metals
(5) arsenic
The ash forms a fine dust that can be inhaled.
Worker exposures tend to be higher during maintenance and cleaning of boilers or furnaces where coal is burned.
Clinical complications of inhalation:
(1) interstitial fibrosis
(2) silicosis
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Specialty: Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation, Pulmonology
