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Published on: May 13, 2020
Computer controlled chamber measurements for clay adherence relevant for potential dioxin exposure through skin
Alesia Ferguson1, Zoran Bursac, Wayne Johnson
1College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, USA. aferguson@uams.edu
Summary
Clay particles show significant adherence to cotton, exceeding previous soil and sand transfer values. Increased pressure and temperature notably enhance clay particle transfer, crucial for understanding dermal exposure risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Dermal exposure to contaminants in soil and clay is a significant health concern.
- Ball clays, used by artisans, can contain dioxins, necessitating exposure assessment.
- Previous studies established adherence values for potting soil and sand to cotton and skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify mass transfer of clay particles to cotton under controlled conditions.
- To investigate the influence of pressure and time on clay adherence.
- To provide data for improving dermal exposure estimates for artisans using ball clays.
Main Methods:
- A computer-controlled mechanical chamber was utilized for controlled contact experiments.
- 160 experiments varied pressure (20-60 kPa) and time (10-70 sec) between aluminum-clay and cotton samples.
- Univariate and multiple regression analyses were performed on mass transfer data.
Main Results:
- Average 'First Transfer' of clay was 34.4 ± 6.3 mg/8.97 cm(2), and 'Total Transfer' was 36.1 ± 6.8 mg/8.97 cm(2).
- Second contact resulted in significantly lower transfer (1.70 ± 0.76 mg/8.97 cm(2)).
- Increased pressure (50-60 kPa) and temperature significantly affected clay adherence.
Conclusions:
- Clay particle adherence to cotton is substantial, surpassing that of potting soil and sand.
- Pressure and temperature are key parameters influencing clay mass transfer.
- Findings aid in refining risk assessments for dermal exposure to dioxin-contaminated clays.
