Review of the physicochemical properties and associated health effects of aerosols generated during thermal spray coating processes

Abstract

Thermal spray coating is a process that applies a molten metal product under pressure onto a surface. Although thermal spray processes have been used for decades, exposure to aerosols formed during thermal spray coating is an emerging risk. Reports indicate that high concentrations of aerosols composed of toxic metals (e.g. chromium) are generated in the workplace. A knowledge gap exists related to the physicochemical properties of thermal spray coating aerosols as well as any potential associated health effects. The objective of this manuscript was to review thermal spray coating and previous studies that have examined the aerosols produced from this process. A thermal spray coating generator and exposure system is also described that has recently been developed to further evaluate the physical and chemical properties of aerosols formed during thermal spray coating as well as to assess the possible health effects of this process in an effort to mitigate potential occupational health hazards related to the industry.

RETRACTED: Health risks and respiratory intake of submicron particles in the working environment: A case study

“…On the other hand, additives in coating powders, which are nanometers in size, include carbon nanotubes, metal oxides (e.g., Cr 2 O 3 , Fe 2 O 3 , and ZnO), and toxic metals (Ni, Fe, Al, and Pt) (West et al, 2021). Metals and metal oxides in additives can cause serious diseases such as lung carcinogens, metal fume fever, and siderosis (Antonini et al, 2021).…”