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Pool cue chalk: a source of environmental lead
M B Miller1, S C Curry, D B Kunkel
1Department of Medical Toxicology, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA.
Pediatrics
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Some pool cue chalk brands contain high levels of lead, posing a risk for childhood lead poisoning. Testing revealed significant lead content in specific chalk colors and brands.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Lead compounds are widely used as colorants in various consumer products.
- Elevated blood lead levels in children prompted an investigation into potential environmental sources.
Observation:
- Pool cue chalk was identified as a potential source of environmental lead exposure.
- The study aimed to quantify lead content across different pool cue chalk brands and colors.
Findings:
- Atomic absorption analysis of 23 pool cue chalk types was performed.
- Three chalk types exceeded 7000 ppm lead: one brand's green and tangerine, and another brand's green chalk.
Implications:
- Certain pool cue chalks contain substantial lead concentrations.
- These findings suggest a potential contribution to childhood lead poisoning cases.