United States EPA-600/7-81 -032
Environmental Protection March 1981
Agency
vvEPA Research and
Development
,Asbestos/Asbestiform
Research in EPA ORD
Prepared for
Office of Pesticides
and Toxic
Substances
Prepared by
Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
Cincinnati, OH 45268
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This report has been reviewed by the Industrial
Environmental Research Laboratory - Cincinnati,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
approved for Publication. Mention of trade
names or commercial products does not con-
stitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
Single copies of this report are available from:
Center for Environmental Research Information
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
This report was prepared for the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency, by Lisa S. Kohn and
Michael R. Taylor, JACA Corp., Fort Washington,
PA, 19034
Additional information or reference material may
be requested from Thomas J. Powers, Industrial
Environmental Research Laboratory, Cincinnati,
Ohio, 45268.
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FOREWORD
The Office of Research and Development supports the Environmental
Protection Agency's mission of protecting the environment and human health by
providing a wide range of research and development support to the regulatory
standard setting and enforcement functions of the agency. The research and
development program is to provide: 1) cost-effective pollution control
technology alternatives and incentives; 2) scientific data and information
needed to determine health and environmental criteria; 3) measurement methods
and agency-wide quality assurance techniques; 4) technological bases requried
to develop environmental control standards; and 5) approaches to balancing
environmental management options in the context of competing national needs.
The EPA asbestos/asbestiform research program encompasses a wide range
of activity directed toward the control and management of mining, milling,
processing, fabricating, and end uses of asbestos. Widespread applications of
asbestos in the past have exposed large segments of the population to unknown
risks. Research should provide valuable answers to numerous questions related
to the use of and the exposure to asbestiform minerals. Access to
state-of-the-art research information is a necessary ingredient that enables
programs of corrective action to be carried forward, minimizing environmental
damage and risk.
The Interagency Regulatory Liaison Group (IRLG) signed an interagency
agreement to improve public health through information exchange and to reduce
waste and duplication in government. The IRLG consists of the Department of
Agriculture, Consumer Product Safety Commission, Environmental Protection
Agency, Food and Drug Administration and Occupational Safety and Health
Administration. These agencies have established a cooperative endeavor to
protect the public from exposure to harmful levels of toxic substances by the
sharing of information and the development of consistent regulatory policy
(toxic substances can result from the use of consumer products, food and drugs
in the workplace, or from exposure in contaminants in land, air, or water).
This report is intended to update EPA's laboratory research programs dealing
with asbestos and related asbestiform minerals.
Carl Schafer
Director
Industrial and Extractive Processes
Division
_ . ^j_n Aaenfiy Office of Environmental Engineering
Environmental Protection fi&w* and Technology
11
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CONTENTS
Paje
Organization Chart - ORD Laboratories Active in Asbestos
Research i i
Foreword. iv
Introduction x
Overview: Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory -
Ci ncinnati 1
Chemical Stabilizers for the Control of
Fugitive Asbestos Emissions 3
Optimizing Baghouse Performance to
Control Asbestos 4
Evaluation of Sealants for Spray-on
Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings 6
Preparation of Fifteen Status Assessment Reports..... 8
Evaluation of a Commercial Vacuum System for the
Removal of Asbestos 9
Overview: Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory -
Cincinnati 11
Removal of Asbestos Fibers from Drinking Water 12
Analysis of Water Samples to Determine
Concentration of Asbestos Fibers in
Drinking Water 13
Study of Erosion of Asbestos from Asbestos
Cement Pipe Drinking Water Supply 14
Seattle Tolt Water Supply - Mixed Asbestos
Forms Removal Study 15
Estimating Costs for Water Treatment as a Function
of Size and Treatment Efficiency 16
Preparation of Suspension of Asbestos in Water
Suitable for Use as Reference Samples for
Electron Microscopy , 17
Evaluation of Natural Inhibiting Factors in an
Aggressive Drinking Water Supply 18
iii
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CONTENTS
(Continued)
Overview: Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory -
Research Triangle Park 19
Investigation of Chrysotile Asbestos Emissions
Resulting from Vehicular Traffic 20
Develop Method Write-up and Conduct Round-Robin
Test for Measurement of Bulk Asbestos by
Polarized Light Microscopy and X-Ray Diffraction... 21
Evaluation and Collaborative Testing of the
Provisional Method for Measurement of
Airborne Asbestos 22
Standard Reference Material for Asbestos
in Air 24
Overview: Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory -
Las Vegas 25
Surveillance of Asbestos Tailings and Project 8040... 26
Overview: Health Effects Research Laboratory - Cincinnati 27
m vitro Analyses of Biological Activity of
Particulate Samples 29
Asbestos and Gastrointestinal Cancer -
Cell Culture Studies 30
Fate of Ingested Chrysotile Asbestos Fiber
in the Newborn Baboons 31
Recovery of Asbestos Fibers from Baboon Tissues 32
Particulate Analysis of Drinking Water Supplies * 33
Assessment of Asbestos Expose to U.S. Public
from Drinking Water 34
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CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
Cancer Incidence in Relation to Asbestos in
Drinking Water in the Puget Sound Region ........... 35
Feasibility Assessment of Potential Studies to
Determine Health Impact of Filtering Asbestiform
Fibers from Duluth Municipal Water Supply .......... 36
Compare Occurence and Levels of Drinking Water
Constituent Among 12 Matched Pairs of High and
Low Cancer Mortality Counties of the U.S. A ......... 37
Asbestos in Domestic Water Supplies and Cancer
Incidence in Five California Counties .............. 39
Epidemiological Study by Asbestos Exposure in
Connecti cut Water .................................. 41
Overview: Health Effects Research Laboratory -
Research Tri angl e Park ............................... ... 43
Evaluation of Health Effects and Toxic
Potential of Nonasbestos Mineral Fibers ............ 45
Cancer Mortality in U.S. Chrysotile Asbestos
Mining and Nonmining Counties ...................... 47
Stimulation of Oxidant Production in
Alveolar Macrophages by Asbestos ................... 48
Overview: Environmental Research Laboratory - Duluth .............. 51
Identify Physical, Morphological, Chemical, and
Crystal ographic Properties of Fine Particles
which Govern their Biological Activity ............. 53
Influence of Drinking Water
Fine Particle Concentrations on Passage
of Fine Particles through Human
Urinary Tract ...................... . ............... 55
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CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
Quantitative Electron Microscope Analysis
of Tissue for Human Inorganic Particle
Exposure Assessment 56
Method for Identification and Concentration
Measurement of Fine Particles in Aquatic
Organi sms 58
Overview: Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory -
Research Triangle Park 59
Application of Asbestos Analysis to Environmental
Sampl es 61
Feasibility Study for an Asbestos Aerosol Monitor.... 62
Development of Glass Array Impactors for Separation
of Fibrous Aerosols 63
Evaluation of Electron Microscope Methods for
Measurement of Airborne Asbestos Concentrations
and Evolvement of an Optimal Procedure 64
Morphology and Composition of Particulates Emitted
by Mobile and Stationary Sources 65
Overview: Environmental Research Laboratory - Athens 67
Investigating the Effect of Preservation/Storage
Techniques 68
Development of a Routine Rapid Method for
Analyzing Asbestos in Water (Non-electron
Microscope Method) 69
Development of a Referee Method for Asbestos
in Water Using the Electron Microscope 70
VI
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CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
Overview: Interagency and Other ORD Research Projects.. 71
Study of Carcinogenic Potential of Asbestos Fibers
on Rodents 72
Elemental Analyses of Asbestiform Minerals 73
Standards Reference Materials for Asbestos in Air.... 74
Insulating Materials, Long-Term Inhalation Effects... 75
Mortality and Industrial Hygiene Study of Workers
in Coal Fired Power Plants 77
Completion of REEP Documents and Incorporation
of Technical Reviews..... 79
Development of A Flowing Water Carcinogen Assay
System Utilizing Fish and Aquatic Invertebrates.... 80
vii
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INTRODUCTION
Asbestos, a natural mineral fiber, is a carcinogen found in air, water, and food, in varying amounts
in all parts of the United States. Besides the natural release of asbestos-bearing formations into the
environment from wind and water erosion, there are man-made emissions from: mining and milling asbestos
ores; consumptive use through the manufacture of asbestos products; the wearing or consumption of asbestos-
containing products; asbestos incidental to industrial or commercial processes; and release from structures
during renovation or demolition. Exposure to asbestos fibers may occur throughout urban environments, both
in drinking water supplies and in the ambient air.
The association of impaired human health with industrial exposure to asbestos is well known. Asbesto-
sis (fibrosis of the lung) and pulmonary cancer are associated with the mining and milling of asbestos and the
manufacture and use of asbestos products. On the other hand, the effects of the ingestion of asbestos have
not been firmly established.
There is a need to define the various sources from which asbestos and asbestos-like minerals enter the
environment, to establish subsequent health and environmental effects, and to examine possible control strate-
gies that will offer current regulatory alternatives.
In response to this need, the Office of Research and Development (ORD) is active in several areas of
laboratory research. The following laboratories are involved in these asbestos-related research projects:
• Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory - Cincinnati (IERL-CI)
t Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory - Cincinnati (MERL-CI)
• Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory - Research Triangle Park (EMSL-RTP)
t Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory - Las Vegas (EMSL-LV)
• Health Effects Research Laboratory - Cincinnati (HERL-CI)
• Health Effects Research Laboratory - Research Triangle Park (HERL-RTP)
• Environmental Research Laboratory - Duluth (ERL-DU)
• Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory - Research Triangle Park (ESRL - RTP)
• Environmental Research Laboratory - Athens (ERL-ATH)
• Environmental Research Laboratory - Gulf Breeze (ERL-GB)
The research encompasses: 1) control, removal, and disposal technologies; 2) monitoring and sampling
techniques; 3) health effects; and 4) identification and measurement techniques.
Efforts are focused on the development of technologies for the safe and effective control, removal, and
disposal of asbestos in both industrial and public buildings (IERL - CI). The application of various treatment
techniques for filtration of asbestos fibers in public water supply systems and the coating of asbestos-contain-
ing materials to prevent the entrance of asbestos into air and water are also being studied (MERL-CI). The
development of these technologies will minimize human exposure to asbestos and asbestos-containing materials.
Extensive air monitoring and sampling is conducted to develop an asbestos standard, support revisions
of already-existing standards (EMSL-RTP), and respond to emergency requests for information (EMSL-LV).
Cooperative in vivo and in vitro studies, and mineralogical analyses are used to develop a predictive
model for the analysis of asbestos-like minerals (HERL-RTP, ERL-DU). Epidemological studies of occupational
and non-occupational exposure are also being conducted. The results of these studies can provide health
effects data useful for evaluating the risk of human exposure to asbestiform minerals.
Epideraiological, animal, and cell culture studies are conducted in order to examine the health effects
of drinking water containing asbestos (HERL-CI). The accumulation of mineral fibers in aquatic organisms is
also studied to extend the methodology for identifying and characterizing asbestos and asbestos-like fibers in
tissue (ERL-DU, ERL-GB).
Research is continuing for the development and improvement of standard measurement methods of using the
electron microscope in the analysis of both inhaled (ESRL-RTP) and ingested (ERL-ATH) asbestos fibers. Research
is also being directed toward the development of non-electron, bulk, rapid, analytical methods that will be
less costly and time-consuming, and toward the development of improved preparation and preservation methodology.
This report contains a program overview for each laboratory, and abstracts of the research projects
that are presently being conducted or have recently been completed by that laboratory. QRD interagency
research projects are also presented.
viii
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OVERVIEW I
INDUSTRIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LABORATORY
cmcm»ATi|
Application of sealant to encapsulate asbestos-ceiling materials
The Industrial Environmental
Research Laboratory (IERL) - Cincinnati
has been active in defining industrial
and building structure environments
and examining control technologies in
order to minimize human exposure to
asbestiform materials. The IERL
asbestos-asbestiform research program
encompasses both the industrial and
private sectors. The industrial portion
of the research program addresses
mining, manufacturing, application, use,
and disposal. There is a plan to
coordinate a portion of the public
sector's air interagency research under
the National Research Program on Indoor
Air Pollution.
Friable asbestos, used in con-
struction for insulation and sound-
deadening purposes, can release small
asbestos fibers into indoor air and
Baghouse for asbestos removal showing plenum, ducting, and effluent
sampling station
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IERL-CI
Vacuum system for removal and disposal of asbestos
is already recognized as a possible
health problem in schools and other
buildings. The small fibers remain
airborne for long periods and can be
inhaled into the lungs of building
occupants. Strong evidence of increased
incidence of lung cancer among people
known to have breathed asbestos dust
has caused EPA to issue a Notice of
Rulemaking concerning control action for
friable asbestos in schools.
Extensive work is in progress on
the evaluation of sealants that will
prevent harmful emissions of asbestos
fibers from spray-on coatings. IERL is
continuing research in optimal methods
for the control, removal, and disposal
of friable asbestos utilizing chemical
stabilizers, baghouses, and vacuum
systems.
In addition, IERL has become
involved in the development and presen-
tation of audio-visual materials and a
series of seminars to inform regional
administrators and public school dis-
tricts about the asbestos public sector
problems.
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IERL-CI
Project Title: CHEMICAL STABILIZERS FOR THE CONTROL OF FUGITIVE ASBESTOS
Starting Date:
Ending Date;
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
EMISSIONS
September, 1978
January, 1981
Thomas J. Powers/Mary Stinson
Tel. (513) 684-4491; FTS: 684-4491
Energy Pollution Control Division
Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
5555 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
IIT Research Institute
10 West 35th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
P.K. Ase, K. Gutfreund, R. Purcell, N. Rajendran, D. Walia,
G. Yamate, E. Luebcke, R. Norman
Tel. (312) 567-4287
The objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness
of chemical stabilizers for reducing asbestos emissions from
waste dumps and for reducing asbestos emissions from crushed
rock prepared from asbestos serpentinite. A large number of
chemical stabilizing agents are currently being promoted as
fugitive dust control agents. This program will assess the
effectiveness and suitability of these agents for emission
control of asbestos waste piles and unpaved roadways made from
crushed serpentinite rock containing asbestos. A wind tunnel
will be used to assess chemicals employed for stabilization.
This project approach utilized basic laboratory evaluations
of commercial stabilizers for further study. Wind tunnel
tests will assess the levels of asbestos emissions after
samples have been treated with the chemical and then sub-
mitted to accelerated weathering through many heat/cold/rain
cycles.
Collection of asbestos waste samples and laboratory evaluations
of chemical stabilizers has already been completed. Effective-
ness of chemicals for fugitive asbestos fiber control from
unpaved roads will be assessed in a field test carried out on
a stretch of a serpentinite rock-surfaced road. Field testing
of unpaved roadway in Harford County of Maryland, near the
Pennsylvania border, is underway and will be completed in 1980.
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ERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
OPTIMIZING BAGHQUSE PERFORMANCE TO CONTROL ASBESTOS
March, 1977
September, 1979
Thomas J. Powers/Mary Stinson
Tel. (513) 684-4491; FTS: 684-4491
Energy Pollution Control Division
Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
5555 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
IIT Research Institute
10 West 35th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
D. Jones, Chemistry Research Division
Tel. (312) 567-4362
Fabric filters (baghouses) have been found to be the most
effective method of controlling asbestos emissions from
manufacturing processes. In asbestos mining, small fabric
filters are used for control during drilling. Cyclones, bag
collectors, and properly designed ducts are then used for
dust control in the crushing operation. Cyclones, sometimes
followed by baghouses, are used as control devices on dryers.
The objective of this IERL project was to demonstrate under
actual plant conditions several-fold improvements in bag-
house collection efficiency by optimizing the operating
parameters.
The project involved: 1) development of an experimental test
plan; 2) modifications to the baghouse demonstration unit at
an asbestos products plant; and 3) full-scale field demon-
stration.
The results from the study prove that: the single most
important variable in the level of fiber emissions from a
baghouse is the duration of the shake-time for the bags
during the cleaning operation; and the next variables of
importance are the amplitude of the shake, and the shake
period.
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IERL-CI
These three variables account for about 40% of output varia-
bility from the baghouse which is specific to the concentra-
tion of asbestos fibers in the air after baghouse. The
interactions between the three parameters of shake period,
shake amplitude, and shake time are important in establishing
the optimized combination of conditions for baghouse per-
formance. The lowest concentration of asbestos fibers in air
was achieved when operating at: short shake, small shake
amplitude, and long shake period.
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IERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
EVALUATION OF SEALANTS FOR SPRAY-ON ASBESTOS-CONTAINING
MATERIAL IN BUILDINGS
August, 1977
March, 1979
William C. Cain
Tel. (513) 684-4334; FTS: -684-4334
Energy Pollution Control Division
Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
5555 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Battelle Memorial Institute
505 King Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43201
W. Mi rick,
Tel. (614)
Columbus Laboratories
424-5543
Many public buildings have been sprayed with asbestos fiber
coatings. Now that it is recognized that asbestos is
carcinogenic, an effort is being made to find sealants that
will prevent harmful emissions from these coatings. The
purpose of this research is to find suitable sealants and to
establish procedures for their application. In addition,
under interagency agreement, IERL participates in seminars
and provides audio visual materials to acquaint school
building engineers and administrators with corrective action
options for friable asbestos problems.
A preliminary study indicated that asbestos from a sprayed-on
asbestos-containing material can enter the ambient atmosphere
when the sprayed-on material begins to deteriorate by vibra-
tion and air movement, by accidental impact of various ob-
jects against the material, and by removal of the material.
The first objective of this IERL study was to evaluate com-
mercially available sealants which can be used to cover
sprayed-on asbestos-containing materials in buildings and
which will inhibit the release of asbestos fibers into the
ambient atmosphere. Each sealant selected underwent a
variety of laboratory tests, to determine suitability.
These tests included compatibility of sealant and asbestos
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IERL-CI
material, penetration, flexibility, impact and abrasion
resistance, flammability, and toxicity.
A second objective in this study was a field evaluation
of at least four sealants. A site was selected with sprayed-
on asbestos-containing material on the ceiling. Each of the
four sealants selected on the basis of the above test results
was sprayed on a test area and evaluated.
The third objective of this study was to measure the asbestos
fiber count in the air in order to characterize the effect of
the field tested sealants. Samples were taken several times,
before, during, and after application of sealant. Analysis
was done by electron microscopy.
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IERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
PREPARATION OF FIFTEEN STATUS ASSESSMENT REPORTS
February, 1978
September, 1978
Thomas J. Powers/David L,
Tel. (513) 684-4491; FTS:
Energy Pollution Control
Industrial Environmental
5555 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Becker
684-4491
Division
Research Laboratory
Monsanto Research Corporation
1515 Nicholas Road, Box 8
Dayton, Ohio 45407
T.R. Blackwood, W.H. Hedley
Tel. (513) 268-3411
This project was conducted to review and rewrite status
assessment reports submitted by EPA, in the established
format of Office of Research and Development reports. The
reports were each reviewed by a chemical specialist, tech-
nical editor, and format editor. Additional information,
when available, will be added by engineers assigned to the
project. Subjects of the assessments are acrylonitrile,
arsenic, benzene, benzidine, hexachlorobenzene, polybromi-
nated biphenyls, polynuclear aromatics, trichloroethylene,
TRIS, vinylidene chloride, cadmium, lead, phosphates, mer-
cury, and asbestos.
Information was primarily obtained from open literature
sources including government reports. The report was pub-
lished in, Archer, S.R., Blackwood, T.R., "Status Assessment
of Toxic Chemicals: Asbestos." EPA 600/2-79-200, December,
1979.
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IERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officers:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
EVALUATION OF A COMMERCIAL VACUUM SYSTEM FOR THE REMOVAL OF ASBESTOS
October, 1979
February, 1980
William C. Cain
Tel. (513) 684-4334; FTS: 684-4334
Energy Pollution Control Division
Industrial Environmental Research
Laboratory
5555 Ridge Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
David Sanchez
Tel. (919) 541-2547;
FTS: 629-2547
Chemical Process Branch
Industrial Environmental
Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina 27711
IIT Research Institute
10 West 35th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
R.W. Welker, D.F. Finn, J.D. Stockham, R.P. Hancock
Tel. (312) 567-4288
Personal, area, and environmental asbestos exposures resulting
from wet and dry asbestos removal using a commercial vacuum
system were measured in a brief field study. Personal and
area (indoor) asbestos concentrations during dry removal were
less than one fiber per cm3, as measured by NIOSH P&CAM 239,
when the vacuum system was used. Asbestos released to the
environment from the vacuum system's three-stage exhaust
filter was negligible. Asbestos was released from the system
operator's protective garments when he exited the work area
to service the vacuum system.
Sources of asbestos fiber release associated with vacuum
system operation were identified; these occurred during
operation disassembly and asbestos disposal. Following
vacuum shutdown, liquid drained out of the collection reser-
voir due to inadequate door seals. During vacuum hose
disassembly, bulk losses of asbestos-containing materials
occurred. During disposal, the exterior of the vacuum truck
became contaminated as the reservoir was emptied. The need
for additional dry removal testing has been clearly identified.
The results of this research are summarized in, Welker, R.W.,
Finn, D.F., Stockham, J.D., and Hancock, R.P., "Evaluation of a
Commercial Vacuum System for the Removal of Asbestos." EPA-600/
2-80-088, May 1980.
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Asbestos in rock formation
10
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OVERVIEW I
MUNICIPAL
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LABORATORY
I
CINCINNATI I
The Municipal Environmental
Research Laboratory (MERL) - Cincinnati
has been conducting research to provide
more detailed knowledge about water
filtration for asbestos removal.
Data on asbestos removal have
been collected from filtration plants
in Duluth, Minnesota and Seattle,
Washington. The results show that
chrysotile and amphibole fiber concen-
trations in drinking water can be
substantially reduced by granular media
filtration. Effective granular media
filtration required very diligent plant
operation with careful control of pH,
coagulant doses, and filtered water
turbidity. Extensive monitoring pro-
grams have been conducted in Phila-
delphia and the San Francisco Ray area.
These studies confirm earlier work
showing that large water filtration
plants remove asbestos fibers.
In addition, MERL has been
studying the attack on asbestos-cement
pipe (A/C) by aggressive water. A test
system was developed, using a 100-gallon
stainless steel tank equipped with a
floating cover to eliminate atmospheric
effects on water quality. Water is
recirculated past an A/C pipe coupon
about 1-1/2 inches wide and 6 inches
long, for up to six months. This
research showed that corrosion control
additives containing zinc protect A/C
pipe. It was also found that increasing
the hardness and pH of the water, so
that calcium carbonate is precipitated,
also results in protection of the A/C
pipe.
A current goal of the corrosion
control research is to find treatment
chemicals that can protect A/C pipe in
the distribution system, as well as
one or more of the types of metal pipe
that might be found in service lines
and the customer's plumbing.
Asbestos-cement pipe fibers
Water treatment pilot plant — Duluth, Minnesota (20 gal/min)
11
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MERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
REMOVAL OF ASBESTOS FIBERS FROM DRINKING WATER
September, 1978
October, 1979
Gary S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345; FTS: 684-7345
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
G.S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345
This study was conducted to evaluate removal of asbestos
fibers by both conventional and direct filtration (no sedi-
mentation) water treatment plants and to prepare a compre-
hensive report on water filtration for asbestos fiber
removal using data from Duluth and other Lake Superior
communities; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Seattle, Washington;
and the San Francisco Ray area.
Study factors included treatment chemicals used, use of
flocculation, and rate of filtration to determine effective
treatment methods. Filtered water turbidity measurements,
filtered water fiber counts, and treatment process controls
were related so that filter plant operators could use turbidity
data to operate their plants for effective fiber removal.
For the most effective reduction of fiber content, the
filtered water turbidity should be 0.10 ntu or lower.
The final report was published in G.S. Logsdon, "Water
Filtration for Asbestos Fiber Removal." EPA-600/2-79-206,
December, 1979.
12
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MERL-CI
Project Title: ANALYSIS OF WATER SAMPLES TO DETERMINE CONCENTRATION OF
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
ASBESTOS FIBERS IN DRINKING WATER
May, 1979
December, 1980
Gary S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345; FTS: 684-7345
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
University of Washington
School of Public Health & Community Medicine
4000 15th Ave. N.E.
Seattle, Washington 98105
E.S. Boatman, Department of Environmental Health
Tel. (206) 543-1144
This project is being conducted to determine if a problem
exists with amphibole and chrysotile asbestos fibers in the
drinking water of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raw and
finished water samples will be collected and analyzed for
asbestos by electron microscopy methods.
This study and earlier work show that large, conventional
water filtration plants remove asbestos fibers. Filtered
water typically has fiber counts below detectable limits or
not statistically significant. Raw water fiber counts are
generally 1 to 10 million fibers per liter.
13
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MERL-Ci
Project Title: STUDY OF EROSION OF ASBESTOS FROM ASBESTOS CEMENT PIPE
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
DRINKING WATER SUPPLY
October, 1977
December, 1983
Gary S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345; FTS: 684-7345
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
G.S. Logsdon, M. Schock, R.W. Buelow
Tel. (513) 684-7236
A small scale system for evaluating corrosion control tech-
niques to protect asbestos-cement (A/C) pipe has been developed
and is being used to test corrosion control additives and
strategies. A recirculating system with a 100-gallon tank,
a floating cover to prevent atmospheric (C02)-induced
changes in water quality, a small recirculating pump, and
a coupon holder are key features of the test apparatus.
Water is circulated past the 1 1/2-inch x 6-inch A/C pipe
coupon for up to six months. The coupon is then studied
to learn if the water attacked and softened the pipe and
exposed fiber bundles.
Protection of A/C pipe using silicates, zinc compounds,
and calcium carbonate saturation has been studied. Research
is under way to learn if A/C pipe and lead or galvanized pipe
can be protected by a single corrosion control additive or
by combinations of additives. Computer modeling of water
chemistry relationships is used to explain the results
observed and to select corrosion control additives likely
to be successful for specific situations.
14
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MERL-CI
Project Title: SEATTLE TOLT WATER SUPPLY - MIXED ASBESTOS FORMS REMOVAL
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
STUDY
May, 1976
August, 1979
Gary S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345; FTS: 684-7345
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Seattle City Water Department
1015 3rd Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98104
G.J. Kirmeyer
Tel. (206) 625-4146
The objectives of this study were: 1) to determine the most
feasible method of removal of naturally occurring mixed
amphibole and chrysotile asbestiform fibers from a major
source of the Water Supply of the City of Seattle, and 2) to
extend the methodology developed in an earlier pilot plant
filtration study to include removal of chrysotile by modi-
fications of the filtering technique successfully developed
for removal of amphibole fibers.
A relationship was developed between filtered water turbidity
and effectiveness of the filtration process.
The final report was published in Kirmeyer, G.J. "Seattle
Tolt Water Supply - Mixed Asbestos Forms Removal Study."
EPA-600/2-79-125, Appendices B and C, EPA 600/2-79-153, and
Appendix D, EPA 600/2-79-126, August, 1979.
15
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MERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
ESTIMATING COSTS FOR WATER TREATMENT AS A FUNCTION OF SIZE
AND TREATMENT EFFICIENT
November, 1976
June, 1979
Robert M. Clark
Tel. (513) 684-7488; FTS: 684-7488
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Culp/Wesner/Culp
P.O. Box 40
El Dorado Hills, California
95630
R.L. Gulp, R.C. Gumerman, S.T. Hansen, T. Linick
Tel. (916) 677-1695
Three major topic areas were: 1) development of detailed
construction, operating, and maintenance cost estimates
(developed from contractor-produced designs) for the treat-
ment of drinking water at the average influent flow rates of
1, 10, 100, and 200 mgd; 2) estimation of the costs of
treatment technology for small water supply systems where
investigations were directed toward technological processes
that could provide alternatives to standard processes, but
which were particularly appropriate and cost-effective for
small water supplies; and 3) estimation of costs for removing
specific contaminants (asbestos and virus) from water sup-
plies by modifying standard treatment processes.
The results were published in R.C. Gumerman, R.L. Gulp, and
S.T. Hansen, "Estimated Water Treatment Costs." EPA-600/2-
79-162A (B,C,D), August, 1979.
16
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MERL-CI
Project Title: PREPARATION OF SUSPENSION OF ASBESTOS IN WATER SUITABLE FOR
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
USE AS REFERENCE SAMPLES FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
March, 1977
April, 1981
Thomas J. Sorg
Tel. (513) 684-7370; FTS: 684-7370
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
R. Feldman, P. Clark
Tel. (513) 684-7236
This study involved preparation of asbestos suspensions
utilizing various asbestos sources to determine the feasi-
bility of their use as reference samples. During the
initial phase of this project, a known mass of asbestos was
suspended in a detergent solution containing HgCl2 preser-
vative. The characteristics of asbestos from at least two
sources (synthetic asbestos being prepared under contract and
asbestos being used by NIEHS in animal feeding studies) were
to be examined to determine which source provides asbestos with
the desired characteristics. This asbestos suspension must
contain fibers which: 1) can be analyzed by electron diffrac-
tion and energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence; 2) have a
size distribution like that usually found in water samples;
3) do not clump and appear in preparations as individual
fibriles; and 4) contain little foreign material. If
satisfactory suspensions can be prepared, they will be sorted
in 20 ml sealed ampoules and periodically analyzed to deter-
mine if the suspension changes with time. If no significant
changes occur in 6 months, then reference samples will be
prepared for distribution.
Six different reference asbestos samples have been prepared
using different techniques. These turned out to be unsuccess-
ful. However, new samples have been developed and it
appears that they will be successful.
17
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MERL-CI
Project Title: EVALUATION OF NATURAL INHIBITING FACTORS IN AN AGGRESSIVE
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
DRINKING WATER SUPPLY
September, 1977
Not available
Gary S. Logsdon
Tel. (513) 684-7345; FTS: 684-7345
Drinking Water Research Division
Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
University of Massachusetts
Amherst Campus
School of Arts & Sciences
Amherst, Massachusetts 01002
O.T. Zajicek, Department of Chemistry
Tel. (413) 545-2627
The objective of this project was to determine why the
Amherst Water Supply, which has a very aggressive chemical
nature, does not severely attack asbestos cement and cast
iron pipe.
The Amherst water chemical quality was compared to the
chemical quality of other water supplies that are known
to be aggressive toward water piping materials. The draft
of the final report has been submitted.
18
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'OVERVIEW!
ENVIRONMENTAL [RESEARCH TRIAN8LE PARKJ
MONITORING SYSTEMS LABORATORY
The need to monitor asbestos in
ambient air exists because of the
difficulty in controlling all sources of
asbestos emissions, and it is in
the public interest that the effective-
ness of the emission controls be
assessed. The Environmental Monitoring
Systems Laboratory (EMSL) - Research
Triangle Park has responsibility for:
assessment of environmental monitoring
technology and systems; implementation
of agency-wide quality assurance pro-
grams for air pollution measurement
systems; and providing technical support
to other groups in the agency including
the Office of Air, Noise and Radiation,
the Office of Pesticides and Toxic
Substances, the Office of Enforcement,
and the Office of Air Quality Planning
and Standards. Accordingly, EMSL - RTP
is engaged in programs to: (1) stan-
dardize asbestos measurement techniques;
(2) develop asbestos reference materials
to support quality assurance activi-
ties; and (3) provide technical support
to asbestos monitoring efforts currently
underway.
Protocols for the measurement of
airborne asbestos by transmission
electron microscopy, and the measurement
of bulk asbestos by polarized light
microscopy and x-ray diffraction are now
under investigation by EMSL-RTP.
Reference materials designed for use in
performance testing of asbestos measure-
ments are being developed using charac-
terized asbestos materials and appro-
priate matrices. The EMSL-RTP program
is designed to provide for reliable
asbestos measurements which are essen-
tial for monitoring this hazardous
material.
Transmission electron microscope indexed grid specimen
Collecting fiber-bearing stones from a roadway
19
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EMSL-RTP
Project Title: INVESTIGATION OF CHRYSOTILE ASBESTOS EMISSIONS RESULTING FROM
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
VEHICULAR TRAFFIC
August, 1979
May, 1981
Ronald J. Drago
Tel. (919) 541-3076; FTS: 629-3076
Environmental Monitoring Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
Investigators*: M.E. Beard, Quality Assurance Division
Tel. (919) 541-2623; FTS: 629-2623
B. Martin, R. Highsmith, Environmental Monitoring Division
Tel. (919) 541-3075; FTS: 629-3075
Abstract:
A program is underway to measure emissions from roadways
surfaced with crushed stone containing small amounts of
asbestos. Sites in northeast Maryland and California were
selected for study. Roads with aged surfaces or freshly
surfaced with crushed stone were selected for study. Areas
where ground surface and roadways contain high concentrations
of asbestos were selected in the Clear Creek Recreation Area
in California. Particulate samplers were placed at upwind
and downwind sites near the roadways and road surface mater-
ial samples were collected with each air sample. Vehicular
traffic was controlled during sampling and appropriate
meteorologic data was collected.
Samples are now being analyzed for asbestos using the EPA
provisional electron microscopic method. This work is being
conducted for the Office of Air Quality Planning Standards.
*Several EPA personnel and service contractors are involved
in this study. For specific information contact M.E. Beard.
20
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EMSL-RTP
Project Title; DEVELOP METHOD WRITE-UP AND CONDUCT ROUND-ROBIN TEST FOR
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
MEASUREMENT OF BULK ASBESTOS BY POLARIZED LIGHT MICROSCOPY
AND X-RAY DIFFRACTION
October, 1979
June, 1980
Michael E. Beard
Tel. (919) 541-2623; FTS: 629-2623
Quality Assurance Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
Research Triangle Institute
Systems and Measurements Division
Environmental Measurements Department
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
D.E. Lentzen
Tel. (919) 541-6745
Protocols describing the analysis of bulk asbestos samples
by polarized light microscopy (PLM) and x-ray diffraction
have been developed from information presented by several
investigators at a workshop held by EPA and The Bureau of
Mines at Avondale, Maryland in October, 1979. The protocols
were subjected to a round-robin test to determine estimates
of their precision and accuracy.
The test showed that the PLM protocol with a point count pro-
cedure produces data less biased and more precise than other
PLM procedures currently used by the analysts. A model
relating PLM aerial estimates of asbestos concentration to
mass estimates was developed and tested. Results of the
investigation are being prepared for publication. The
methods are to be used in surveys of schools for asbestos
hazards by the Office of Pesticides and Toxic Substances.
21
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EMSL-RTP
Project Title: EVALUATION AND COLLABORATIVE TESTING OF THE PROVISIONAL
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer*:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT OF AIRBORNE ASBESTOS
September, 1979
March, 1981
Michael E. Beard
Tel. (919) 541-2623; FTS: 629-2623
Quality Assurance Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
IIT Research Institute
10 West 35th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
G. Yamate
Tel. (312) 567-4295
An evaluation of various measurement techniques for airborne
asbestos described in EPA report 600/2-78-038 resulted in
the development of an optimized analysis protocol described
in EPA Report 600/2-77-178 as the provisional method for
measurement of airborne asbestos. Further investigation
designed to evaluate and optimize several key operations
described in the method is now in progress.
The provisional method describes particulate collection on
(or transfer to) polycarbonate film filters which are car-
bon coated, transferred to 3 mm microscope grids using the
Jaffe Wick technique, and examined by transmission electron
microscopy. Fibers with an aspect ratio of 3:1 (length to
width) or greater are identified by morphology, and confirmed
by selected area electron diffraction and energy dispersive
x-ray fluorescence analysis. Mass is calculated based on
volume of the fiber and density of the asbestos variety.
Both fiber count and mass are reported for the sample.
The current investigation will focus on determination of
optimum face velocity for samplers, effect of transportation
on sample, fiber collection efficiency, effect of ashing
sample, the development of improved sampling technique using
cellulose ester filters, and computer programmed x-ray
fluorescence analysis of fibers. The method will be
22
-------
EMSL-RTP
subjected to a multi-laboratory collaborative test to determine
inter- and intra-laboratory precision and accuracy.
*See also Evaluation of Electron Microscope Methods for Measure-
ment of Airborne Asbestos Concentrations and Evolvement of an
Optima1 P rocedure. ESRL - Research Triangle Park, J. Wagman.
23
-------
EMSL-RTP
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer*:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
STANDARD REFERENCE MATERIAL FOR ASBESTOS IN AIR
July, 1979
July, 1981
Michael E. Beard
Tel. (919) 541-2623; FTS: 629-2623
Quality Assurance Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Department of Commerce
National Bureau of Standards
Washington, DC 20234
J. Small, E. Steel
Tel. (301) 921-2875
The National Bureau of Standards (NBS) is engaged in a
program to develop reference materials to support quality
assurance activities for asbestos measurements made with the
EPA provisional method (transmission electron microscopy).
The reference materials will consist of: 1) filters and 2)
prepared microscope grids containing characterized samples
of chrysotile and amphibole asbestos fibers incorporated in
an urban air particulate matrix. These materials will allow
the separation of errors due to sample preparation and sample
counting. Critical factors related to the analysis of
asbestos with the provisional method will be evaluated by
NBS and coordinated studies conducted by IIT Research Insti-
tute. A workshop on preparation of asbestos standards will
be held at NBS. Analysts will address characterization of
materials used for standard preparation, sample matrices, and
criteria for counting and identifying asbestos fibers. A
synopsis of the workshop will be published.
*This study is conducted in conjunction with the National
Bureau of Standards. See also, Standard Reference Materials
for Asbestos in Air, Interagency - National Bureau of
Standards, J. Small.
24
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OVERVIEW
L
ENVIRONMENTAL
MONITORING SYSTEMS LABORATORY
The Environmental Monitoring
Systems Laboratory (EMSL) - Las Vegas is
responsible for developing monitoring
capabilities, providing quick-response
support in emergency environmental
situations, and conducting quality
assurance analyses. The laboratory
became involved in the asbestos issue
when the Governor of Arizona requested
EPA assistance in evaluating plans for
control and cleanup of active and
abandoned asbestos mine tailings in and
near the city of Globe, Arizona, (ap-
proximately seventy miles east of
Phoenix). Evacuation orders for homes
built within three miles of tailing
piles became necessary because of
asbestos contamination found in the
sewer system. Clean-up orders were
issued to asbestos mining operations.
Soil samples collected in Globe by
Arizona officials indicated high levels
of asbestos, but the extent of conta-
minant transport by winds and surface
run-off was not known.
EPA Region IX and the Oil and
Special Materials Control Division of
the Office of Water Programs Operations
requested EMSL-Las Vegas support to
obtain multi-altitude aerial photography
of the Globe area and the neighboring
town of Miami, to describe and evaluate
mining operations. EMSL-Las Vegas
arranged a photographic overflight on
Sunday, December 30th. The photo
coverage did not provide desired infor-
mation for locating the extent of
asbestos tailings that are transported
by winds, due to excessive rainfall
and moisture on the ground. Therefore,
experimental overflights were con-
ducted with the hope of tracking asbes-
tos migration. EPA and Arizona health
officials are awaiting test results
before determining appropriate decon-
tamination procedures for the Globe-
Miami area.
LAS VEGAS |
ASBESTOS TAILINGS;
' .*SM*<
Aerial view of asbestos tailings, Globe, Arizona
EMSL-LV is also conducting an
analyses of current and archival aerial
photography to provide additional infor-
mation on past operational practices.
25
-------
EMSL-LV
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
SURVEILLANCE OF ASBESTOS TAILINGS AND PROJECT 8040
December, 1979
September, 1980
Clayton E. Lake
Tel. (702) 798-2100; FTS: 595-2269
Advanced Monitoring Systems Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
P.O. Box 15027
Las Vegas, Nevada 89114
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Advanced Monitoring Systems Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory
P.O. Box 15027
Las Vegas, Nevada 89114
C.E. Lake
Tel. (702) 798-2100
This study is an experimental program for assisting in the
location of asbestos transported by winds and surface run-off,
and of active and abandoned asbestos mine tailings. Some of
the asbestos sites are located near schools and populated
areas of Globe, Arizona.
Experimental overflights, using the multi-spectral scanner
and a detector sensitive between 2.0 and 2.5 microns, were
conducted during predawn and postdawn hours on May 25 and
June 6, 1980. Soil samples from selected areas have been
collected by the state and are presently being analyzed for
contamination levels. The results from the soil sample
analysis will be compiled with the multispectral data, and
computer-enhanced in an attempt to produce a quantitative
base map that will identify surface levels of asbestos.
Project 8040, which involves the photo analyses of current
and archival aerial photography, has been included with the
experiment and will provide historical information and
documentation of the operational practices that dated between
1940 and 1980.
26
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r
OVERVIEW!
HEALTH EFFECTS
RESEARCH LARORATORY
Work on asbestos at the Health
Effects Research Laboratory (HERL) -
Cincinnati falls under the general work
plan heading of "determine health
effects information on inorganic consti-
tuents in drinking water not currently
have been developed
effect on health of
regulated." Tasks
to investigate the
drinking water containing asbestos,
through epidemiology, toxicology, and
cell culture assay.
encimum |
Epidemiology studies have been
initiated in areas where people have
been exposed to asbestos in their water
from natural erosion or the degra-
dation of asbestos-cement pipe. The
variables of asbestos concentration,
type, and size will be investigated.
The analytical techniques for water and
urine analysis used to find exposed
populations and assess the extent of
exposure are being tested.
Asbestos in corroded asbestos-cement pipe (magnified 500 times)
27
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HERL-CI
Sites sampled for asbestos in drinking water
Electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis
Animal studies are performed to
determine which organs or sites within
the body should be considered targets
for fiber migration and to determine
the rate of accumulation and size of
fibers in tissue from exposure through
ingestion. The effects of long-term
water leaching, and leaching by stomach
acid or chrysotile asbestos, will be
investigated as they relate to the
interpretation of animal data.
Cell culture tests with asbestos
are used to study the effects of
different sized asbestos and the effect
of multiple stress, i.e. synergism
between asbestos and organic chemicals.
28
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HERL-CI
Project Title: IN VITRO ANALYSES OF BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF PARTICULATE
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
SAMPLES
June, 1979
September, 1979
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
National Center for Toxicological Research
Highway 65 North
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
R. Hart, Department of Radiology
Tel. (501) 541-4000
The effects of particulates collected from municipal water
systems (drinking water) on mammalian cell lines were com-
pared with the effects caused by commercial asbestos
materials.
The effects of the materials were tested on the biological
endpoints of cytotoxicity; enhancement of virally directed
cellular transformation; and alteration of cell membrane,
cyclic nucleotides, and DNA. Embryonic cultures were used to
compare the effects of five asbestos materials on a cellular,
biochemical, and molecular basis.
Chrysotile was found to be the most cytotoxic of the asbestos
materials, followed by crocidolite, tremolite, amosite, and
silica. Results of tests involving cellular ratios of cyclic
nucleotides were consistent, with asbestos acting as a
promoter of carcinogenesis. Washed asbestos fibers had
little or no effect on induction of DNA damage based on
unscheduled DNA synthesis tests. The research is summarized
in Hart, R.W., Fertel, R., Newman, U.A.I, Daniel, F.B, and
Blakeslee, J.R., "The Effects of Selected Asbestos Fibers on
Cellular and Molecular Parameters." EPA-600/1-79-021, 1979.
The final report on particulates will be available as a
Project Report from NTIS or the project officer.
29
-------
HERL-Ci
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
ASBESTOS AND GASTROINTESTINAL CANCER - CELL CULTURE STUDIES
January, 1976
January, 1979
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Naylor Dana Institute for Disease Prevention
1 Dana Road
Valhalla, New York 10595
B. Reiss, G.M. Williams
Tel. (914) 592-2600
in vitro techniques for the delineation of the effects
asbestos on cell types related to the gastrointestinal
tract were developed and utilized in this study.
of
Cytotoxicity was examined on 407 human embryonic intes-
tine-derived and ARL-6 liver-derived cell cultures; muta-
gem'city assays were also performed. Three forms of asbes-
tos: amosite, crocidolite, and chrysotile were assayed for
their cytotoxicity and mutagenicity in cell culture. Using
embryonic human intestine-derived and adult rat liver-derived
epithelial cells, chrysotile was found to be more toxic than
amosite and crocidolite, which were equal in toxicity.
Leaching in acid slightly increased the toxicity of amosite
and crocidolite and greatly increased the toxicity of chryso-
tile. High concentrations of all three asbestos forms were
not mutagenic in cultures or rat liver-derived epithelial
cells.
The results are summarized in ORD publication EPA-600/
1-79-023, and in Reiss, B., Soloman, S., Weisburger, J.H.,
and Williams, O.M., "Comparative Toxicities of Different
Forms of Asbestos in a Cell Culture Assay." Envir. Res.
22:109-129 (1980).
30
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HERL-CI
Project Title: FATE OF INGESTED CHRYSOTILE ASBESTOS FIBER IN THE NEWBORN
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
BABOON
September, 1977
September, 1979
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
University of Illinois
Medical Center at Chicago
School of Public Health
Box 4348
Chicago, Illinois 60680
K.J. Patel-Mandlick
Tel. (312) 996-8855
The objective of this study was to determine the distribution
of ingested asbestos fibers in the newborn baboon.
A newborn baboon was orally administered chrysotile asbestos
in formula. Ten organs were analyzed for asbestos. Test
tissues showed higher levels of asbestos than respective
control tissues. The highest concentration of fibers was
found in the kidney cortex, followed by lymph nodes, spleen,
colon, and esophagus. Fiber size distribution indicated that
the largest fibers were retained in the kidney cortex.
The results of the study were published in Patel-Mandlik, K.J.,
"Distribution of Ingested Asbestos in the Newborn Baboon."
EPA-600/1-80-022, 1980.
31
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HERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
RECOVERY OF ASBESTOS FIBERS FROM BABOON TISSUES
May, 1979
September, 1980
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
University of Illinois
Medical Center at Chicago
School of Public Health
Box 4348
Chicago, Illinois 60680
W.H. Hallenbeck
Tel. (312) 996-8855
The objective of this study was to determine fiber size and
distribution of ingested asbestos fibers in the lungs, in
urine, and in tissues which show the migratory pathway of
fibers through the body.
Juvenile baboons were used for control and test. A concen-
trated suspension of chrysotile and amphibole asbestos of the
types found in drinking water was used. Collection of urine
and blood was followed by sacrifice of the animals. The
following were examined for the presence of fibers: urine,
blood, lung, pleura, urinary bladder, pancreas, and peri-
toneum.
A method for blood analyses has been developed. The animals
have been exposed and sacrificed. The tissues have been
analyzed and a report is being prepared.
32
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HERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
PARTICIPATE ANALYSIS OF DRINKING WATER SUPPLIES
September, 1977
September, 1979
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
J.R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462
The purpose of this research was to accumulate data on the
particulates found in drinking water, and develop systems for
classification of these particulates.
Results to date include analysis of over 60 samples of
drinking water and classification of particulates into
fibrous, nonfibrous, crystalline, organic, and asbestos
categories. A report differentiating between chrysotile
asbestos and two clays, palygorskite and halloysite, has been
published in, Millette, J.R., Twyman, J.D., Hansen, E.C.,
Clark, P.J., and Pansing, M.F., "Chrysotile, Palygorskite,
and Halloysite in Drinking Water." Scanning Electron
Microscopy I: 579-86 (1979).
33
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HERL-Ci
Project Title: ASSESSMENT OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE TO U.S. PUBLIC FROM DRINKING
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
WATER
June, 1977
June, 1980
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
J.R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462
Over 1,500 asbestos analyses of water supplies in 43 states,
Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia were evaluated in
order to assess the exposure of the United States population
to asbestos in drinking water.
It was concluded that the large majority of U.S. water con-
sumers are not exposed to concentrations of asbestos fibers
above one million fibers per liter. In a few areas people
are exposed to concentrations up to one hundred million
fibers per liter. The majority of persons receiving water
from asbestos-cement pipe distribution systems are not
exposed to significant number of fibers from the pipe. In
areas of aggressive water, however, water consumers using
asbestos-cement mains may be exposed to high concentrations
of fibers.
The results of the evaluation have been published in, Millette,
J.R., Clark, P.J., and Pansing, M.F., "Exposure to Asbestos
from Drinking Water in the United States." EPA-600/1-79-028,
1979.
34
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HERL-CI
Project Title: CANCER INCIDENCE IN RELATION TO ASBESTOS IN DRINKING WATER
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officers:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
IN THE PUGET SOUND REGION
April, 1978
May, 1981
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Leland 0. McCabe
Tel. (513) 684-7211;
FTS: 684-7211
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research
Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
1102 Columbia Street
Seattle, Washington 98104
L. Pollisar, D.B. Thomas, Program in Epidemiology & Biostatistics
Tel. (206) 292-2937
E.S. Boatman, University of Washington
W. Hinds, State Dept. of Social & Health Services
Cancer mortality and incidence data will be used to deter-
mine if there is an elevated cancer risk for those persons
living in areas of the Puget Sound Region with a high con-
centration of asbestos in the water supply.
Data to be used will include death certificates, incidence
records from a population-based tumor registry, census
tabulations, and water analyses. Statistical methods will
include calculations of rates and analysis of relative risks.
A case-control study will be undertaken.
The preliminary results are reported in, Severson, R.K.,
"A Study of the Effects of Asbestos in Drinking Water on
Cancer Incidence in the Puget Sound Region." M. S. Thesis,
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (1979).
35
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HERL-CI
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
FEASIBILITY ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL STUDIES TO DETERMINE HEALTH
IMPACT OF FILTERING~AS5ESTIFORM FIBERS FROM DULUTH MUNICIPAF
WATER SUPPLY
July, 1971
September, 1977
Lei and J. McCabe
Tel. (513) 684-7211; FTS: 684-7211
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
State Department of Health
717 Delaware St. S.E.
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55440
L.J. Michienzi, W.R. Lawson
Tel. (612) 296-5221
The feasibility of studies was assessed in order to determine
the health impact of the new water filtration plant in
Duluth, Minnesota, which was designed to filter approximately
90 percent of asbestiform fibers from Duluth water. Since
June, 1973, when it was announced that Lake Superior and the
Duluth municipal water supply, which is drawn from the lake,
contained large numbers of asbestiform fibers, many environ-
mental and human health studies have been performed to better
assess the situation and its potential hazards. The new
water filtration plant is apparently the primary measure
to remove asbestiform fibers already in the source of Duluth's
municipal water supply.
The main component of the assessment was the review and
analysis of all previous and current water and human health
studies related to the presence of asbestiform fibers in
Duluth's municipal water supply. This involved review of
pertinent scientific literature, communication with appro-
priate technical experts in environmental health, epide-
miology, and medicine, and the development and frequent
meeting of a multidisciplinary technical advisory group.
36
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HERL-CI
Project Title: COMPARE OCCURRENCE AND LEVELS OF DRINKING WATER CONSTITUENTS
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
AMONG 12 MATCHED PAIRS OF HIGH AND LOW CANCER MORTALITY COUNTIES
OF THE USA
September, 1977
June, 1981
Daniel G. Greathouse
Tel. (513) 684-7368; FTS: 684-7368
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
D.G. Greathouse
Tel. (513) 684-7368
The aim of this project is to determine if matched counties
with contrasting cancer mortality rates use drinking water
that'has significantly different characteristics in terms of
occurrence and levels of contaminants, treatment technologies
used, and/or source type (ground or surface).
Using available data from the National Cancer Institute,
all U.S. Metropolitan counties were sorted into categories
defined by five parameters: region of the country, popula-
tion years at risk (females for the time period 1968-1972),
percent of population employed in manufacturing industry,
percent urbanization, and average educational level. Each
pair of counties was selected from categories so that one had
a female age-adjusted cancer mortality rate 24 and the other
16, for a total of four sites: colon, rectum, bladder, and
liver. Historical data from each county has been collected
from the appropriate state regulatory agencies and the major
utilities in the counties; data collected are sources and
treatment technologies used during the previous 30 years for
each served area.
37
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HERL-Cl
Water samples are being collected bimonthly for analyses
for mutagens and biannually for analyses for 41 Inorganic
chemicals, 6 trihalomethanes, TOC, fluorescence, asbestos,
and radiation. Comparisons of water constituent occurrences
and levels, treatment technologies, and source types will be
made among the pairs of counties to determine if significant
differences exist for counties with contrasting cancer
mortality rates.
38
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HERL-CI
Project Title: ASBESTOS IN DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLIES AND CANCER INCIDENCE IN FIVE
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officers:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
CALIFORNIA COUNTIES
April, 1976
December, 1978
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
Leiand J. McCabe
Tel. (513) 684-7211;
FTS: 684-7211
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research
Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
University of California
Berkeley Campus
School of Public Health
Berkeley, California 94720
R.C. Cooper, J.C. Murchio, R.S. Paffenbarger, Department of
Biomedical & Environmental Health Sciences
Tel. (415) 642-4416
The association between the presence of asbestos fibers in
drinking water and the incidence of cancer in the population
served by such water supplies was determined.
The study was divided into three overlapping phases. The
first phase dealt with the identification and description of
San Francisco Bay Area watershed and water distribution
systems, which includes: the site of water sources, their
geomorphic composition, geo-political area served, method of
water treatment, and means of distribution. The second phase
was directed towards the determination of number, size, and
type of asbestos fibers present in the various water supplies
before and after treatment, and after distribution. The third
phase involved a tabulation of tumor incidence and cancer
mortality data from the third National Cancer Survey, con-
ducted in the five San Francisco Bay Area counties under
consideration. Correlations between the observed occurrence
of asbestos in drinking water and the incidence of human
cancer were determined using the information gathered in the
three phases of this study.
39
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HERL-CI
The results of this study are published in, Kanarek, M.S.,
Conforti, P.M., Jackson, L.A., Cooper, R.C., and Murchio,
J.C., "Asbestos in Drinking Water and Cancer Incidence in
the Bay Area." Am. J. Epidemiology 112:54-72 (1980).
40
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HERL-Cl
Project Title: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY BY ASBESTOS EXPOSURE IN CONNECTICUT
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Perform! ng
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
WATER
September, 1976
September, 1979
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS: 684-7462
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Epidemiology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina 27711
J.R. Millette, G.F. Craun
Tel. (513) 684-7462
J.W. Meigs, Yale University
State Department
of Health
79 Elm Street
Hartford, Connecticut
06115
J.T. Flannery,
R.S. Woodhull
Tel. (203) 566-3975
This study first provided data to determine the extent of
exposure to asbestos that was associated with drinking water
from asbestos-cement pipe in Connecticut townships. The
age-adjusted sex-specific incidence data for stomach,
colon, and rectal cancer for Connecticut townships for the
period 1935 to 1973 were then used to investigate whether
asbestos cement pipe usage for domestic drinking water was
associated with gastrointestinal cancer.
The program of sampling and analysis was designed to furnish
data to be used to: 1) validate the relationship between
stability index (characterizing the water's aggressiveness),
age, and length of asbestos-cement pipe, and concentrations
of asbestos fibers found in the drinking water that flowed
through the pipe; 2) determine the relationship between
asbestos fiber concentrations and cancer; 3) determine the
relationship between total large rigid fiber concentrations
in drinking water from asbestos-cement pipe and cancer; and
4) determine the relationship, if any, between total large
rigid fibers observed by optical microscope and asbestos
fibers counted by electron microscope.
41
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HERL-CI
The townships were grouped according to the Assessment of
Exposure (AGE) and Risk Factor (RF) for asbestos. No associ-
ation was noticed between these asbestos risk scores and the
incidence of gastrointestinal tumors. Results of the study
utilizing actual fiber count data from the Connecticut
water supplies and a more sophisticated analysis procedure
did not show any association. A paper describing the study
has been published in, Meigs, J.W., Walter, S.D, Heston,
J.F., Millette, J.R., Craun, G.F., Woodhall, R.S., and
Flannery, J.T., "Asbestos Cement Pipe and Cancer in Con-
necticut 1955-1974." J. Environ. Health 42(4) 187-191
(1980).
42
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F
HEALTH EFFECTS
RESEARCH LARORATORY
OVERVIEW I
| RESEARCH TRIANGLE PABKJ
Rat receiving intratracheal injection of amphibole
A large proportion of the surface
or near-surface rocks of the continental
United States contain various kinds of
mineral fibers that are emitted into the
air or gain access to water through
commercial operations. Many of these
fibers resemble commercial asbestos
fibers. Due to the widespread natural
occurrence of these minerals in many
sections of the country, there are few
hard rock operations in which there
is not some risk of uncovering such
material. If all of these operations
were controlled on the basis of an
analogy to asbestos, the cost and
disruption to industry would be stag-
gering. These fibers vary from those
Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung from intratracheal injection ot
amphibole
Rat lung showing squamous cell carcinoma after intratracneal inocula-
tion
43
-------
HERL-RTP
Rat receiving intrapleural injection of amphibole
almost identical to commercial asbestos,
to fibers with little or no physical or
chemical resemblance to asbestos types.
The Health Effects Research Laboratory
(HERL) - Research Triangle Park has
conducted a study to provide biological
data on which to evaluate the health
effects of asbestos-like minerals.
Results expected from these
projects may provide data on which to
evaluate the risk to employees of the
mining industry, estimate the potential
for community health problems in areas
surrounding mines and ore beneficiation
plants, and establish guidelines for
continued safe exploitation of essential
minerals. Evaluation of the possible
health hazard resulting from rock
quarrying and crushing, such as the use
Rat lung showing mesothelioma after intrapleural injection
of crushed rock for road paving,
will also benefit from this work.
Additionally, information gained from
this project, by providing predictive
screening systems and basic information
concerning dose effect, will help
evaluate the problems associated with
human exposure to commercial asbestos
effluents, sprayed asbestos ceilings,
building demolition, solid waste dis-
posal, and other sources of commercial
asbestos contamination.
HERL is also conducting epide-
miological studies, involving an assess-
ment of mortality rates over a 10 year
period, to compare cancer mortality
rates in asbestos mining and nonmining
counties.
Malignant sarcomatus mesothelioma of the visceral pleura from intrapleural inoculation of amphibole
44
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HERL-RTP
Project Title: EVALUATION OF HEALTH EFFECTS AND TOXIC POTENTIAL OF NONASBESTQS
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer*:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
MINERAL FIBERS
September, 1977
December, 1983
David Coffin
Tel. (919) 541-2585; FTS: 629-2585
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina 27709
D. Coffin
Tel. (919) 541-2585
27709
Northrop Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 12313
Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina 27709
L. Palekar
Tel. (919) 541-2585
Although exposure to commercial asbestos is a well recognized
threat to human health, the risk factor of exposure to other
fiber-containing minerals is unclear. It is impractical,
however, to test all these minerals by means of classical
whole animal models, which have been widely used to investi-
gate the potential health hazards of asbestos samples. It
is, therefore, pertinent to develop a less time-consuming
system which will determine potential health hazards of
nonasbestos minerals with relative ease. The ultimate
objective of this cooperative inter!aboratory research
program is to develop such a predictive model. It is be-
lieved that this would be best achieved by first relating
mineral properties to tumorigenesis in the animals and then
selecting a short term bioassay that will predict the tumori-
genicity of the test sample as determined in the animals.
This project will produce data which will be also applicable
to evaluation of asbestos substitutes.
The following studies are now being conducted: Three amphi-
bole minerals, one a commercial asbestos, are being evaluated
for their tumorogenisis by means of lifetime whole animal
studies in rats and by various in vitro systems. The objec-
tive in view is to rank these minerals 1) according to their
degree of tumorgenicity by means of intrapleural inoculations
and intratracheal instillation, and 2) compare these rankings
with data derived from various sub-whole animal tests to
45
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HERL-RTP
determine which of these compare with the more definitive
whole animal methods. The techniques currently applied
consist of erythrocyte lysis test, pulmonary macrophage
cytotoxicity test, human fibroblast cytotoxicity, and Chinese
hamster ovary cell cytotoxicity. Tumor data are available on
two of the amphiboles (commercial and noncommercial asbestos).
The third is incomplete. These data have been reviewed and
diagnostic concensus was achieved by a panel consisting of
five pathologists convened under the aegis of the Universities
Associated for Research and Education in Pathology. Mesothe-
liomatous tumors were induced by intrapleural inoculation of
both specimens. The mesotheliomas were classified as tubulo-
papillary, fibrosarcomatous, or pleomorphic sarcomatous and
mixed mesothelioma. Lesions derived from intratracheal
inoculations were typical bronchoalveolar cell hyperplasia,
bronchoalveolar adenocarcinoma, epidermoid carcinoma, tubulo-
papillary mesothelioma and sarcomatous mesothelioma.
Animal studies completed thus far show that both amphibole
samples produce tumors when inoculated intrapleurally -- 22%
for the noncommercial asbestos specimens and 29% for the
commercial asbestos specimens. A striking reversal was
noted, however, from intratracheal instillations where tumor
or tumor-like lesions were noted in 5.5% of the noncommer-
cial amphibole and 0.8% for the commercial specimens. These
data are being correlated with mineralogical studies to seek
an explanation for this striking difference.
*This study is being conducted in collaboration with the Environ-
mental Research Laboratory - Duluth. See also Identify Physical.
Morphological. Chemical, and Crystalographic Properties of Fine
Particles which Govern their Biological Activity, ERL-Duluth, P.
Cook.
46
-------
HERL-RTP
Project Title: CANCER MORTALITY IN U.S. CHRYSOTILE ASBESTOS MINING AND
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
NONMINING COUNTIES
October, 1979
May, 1981
John Acquavella
Tel. (919) 541-2861; FTS: 629-2861
Human Studies Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Human Studies Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
J. Acquavella, J. Gerding, J. Van Bruggen, W. Nelson
Tel. (919) 541-2861
This study is a continuation of a pilot study that inves-
tigated relative mortality rates of U.S. asbestos mining
counties.
The comparison of matched mining and nonmining counties,
from the years 1961-1977, indicated that elevated mortality
ratios were found at some cancer sites. Elevations of
pleural and mediastinal neoplasms were found among white
males in the mining counties. Oral and digestive cancer
excesses were consistently found among all race/sex groups.
Research is now focusing on the assessment of mortality
rates from 1968-1978 using quantitative measures of asbestos
exposure in air and water. This will be in collaboration with
HERL-Cincinnati and Science Applications, Inc., California.
47
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HERL-RTP
Project Title: STIMULATION OF OXIDANT PRODUCTION IN ALVEOLAR MACROPHAGES BY
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
ASBESTOS
January, 1977
December, 1978
Gary E. Hatch
Tel. (919) 541-2531; FTS: 629-3790
Environmental Toxicology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Toxicology Division
Health Effects Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
G.E. Hatch
Tel. (919) 541-2531
Air pollutant dusts as well as chemically defined particles
were examined for their activating effect on oxidant production
(03 and \\2®2^ in guinea pig alveolar macrophages (AM).
Oxidant production in phagocytes appears to be an important
mechanism of the body in defense against microbial invasion,
and may also be involved in fibrogenesis and inflammatory
lung damage.
Oxidant production was measured as chemiluminescence of
albumin-bound luminol. Standard UICC asbestos samples stimu-
lated oxidant production upwards of ten-fold higher maximal
levels than latex particles. All particles examined stimu-
lated the AM in a dose-dependent manner to different maximal
levels of oxidant production at approximately 1 mg/ml of
particles. Amphibole asbestos samples (crocidolite, amosite
and anthophyllite) were the most active of all agents studied.
Zymosan, silica, metal-oxide coated fly ash, polymethyl
methacrylate beads, and chrysotile asbestos (A and B) had
intermediate activity, while mixed silicate dusts, glass and
latex beads, uncoated fly ash and fiberglass had the lowest
activity. Asbestos fibers also caused a rapid release of
peroxidase from eosinophils which were found to be present in
lavage fluid from guinea pigs. In addition to direct stimu-
latory action on AM, particles also lowered the subsequent
48
-------
HERL-RTP
responsiveness of the cells to the bacterial peptide stimulant,
F-Met-Phe. This latter effect was only partially due to the
cytotoxicity of the particles. Human pulmonary lavage cells
from diseased patients were also tested and found to vary
widely in their composition of nonmacrophage cells. Human
cells also contained peroxidases and could be stimulated by
asbestos.
It therefore appears that asbestos and other pollutants which
are not easily degraded or removed from the lung could
chronically stimulate oxidant production in surrounding
phagocytes. Current thinking is that these phagocyte-derived
oxidants contribute to inflammatory lung damage and may be
involved in fibrogenesis. The results of this research were
published in Hatch, G.E., Gardner, D.E., Menzel, D.B.,
"Stimulation of Oxidant Production in Alveolar Macrophages by
Pollutant and Latex Particles." Environ. Research 23, (1980').
49
-------
Electron micrograph of ferroactinolite fibers
recovered from lung tissue of a rat after
intratracheal injection (magnified approxi-
mately 15,000 X; 1 cm equals 0.67yJ
50
-------
r
OVERVIEW!
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Asbestos research at the Environ-
mental Research Laboratory (ERL) -
Duluth originated in 1973 when analysis
of Duluth, Minnesota drinking water
revealed high amphibole fiber concen-
trations associated with mine tailings
discharged into Lake Superior. The
similarity of these fibers to amosite
asbestos and concern for the health of
persons ingesting them created numerous
research questions which EPA's Office of
General Council, Region V and the
State of Minnesota requested ERL-Duluth
to work on. Electron microscope
methods for counting and sizing fibers
in water and air samples were developed
and correlated to x-ray diffraction
measurements which proved to be a useful
and inexpensive indicator of amphibole
fiber concentrations. These methods
formed the basis for the development of
the EPA Interim Method for Determining
Asbestos in Hater and the EPA Provi-
sional Method for Electron Microscope
Measurement of Airborne Asbestos Con-
centrations.
In recent years ERL-Duluth has
adapted the electron microscope tech-
niques for water and air analysis to
examination of tissue and urine. The
finding of amphibole fibers in the urine
of Duluth residents who ingested
unfiltered drinking water contaminated
with the fibers provided the first
evidence that some ingested mineral
fibers can pass through the gastroin-
testinal mucosa and thus be absorbed by
the body. Analysis of Lake Superior
lake trout indicates that amphibole
fibers are accumulated by the fish in
the kidney but not significantly in
muscle tissue.
Research questions that arose
with the Lake Superior water situation
have been restated many times since 1973
as problems with mineral and synthetic
fibers similar to asbestos have deve-
loped. The most important question
DULUTHl
Rock fragments from quarry material used in road construction consist-
ing mainly of barroisite (an aluminum rich amphibole)
Electron micrograph of Duluth drinking water
51
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ERL-DU
•,'«r
i,
Electron micrograph of barroisite after grinding to produce fine dust (magnified approximately 4,500 X; 1 cm equals 2.2^,)
Invariably has been, "Which fibers are
hazardous?" Are short asbestos fibers
found in the environment carcinogenic,
as are asbestos fibers in past occupa-
tional exposures? Do particles from
commercial asbestos possess some prop-
erty related to their carcinogenicity
that similar particles from other
sources do not? Current ERL-Duluth
research seeks to help answer these
questions through studies of the
physical, chemical and crystalographic
propertips of asbestos and analogous
mineral and synthetic fibers for which
biological effects data is available or
is being collected. Much of this
work is done cooperatively with HERL-RTP
which is conducting in vivo and in vitro
tests of the same fiber samples being
characterized at ERL-Duluth.
Accurate determinations of fiber
dose, size distribution, and other
characteristics are essential for the
correlation of carcinogenicity to sample
properties and the ultimate development
of a model to predict the relative
carcinogenicity of complex unknown fiber
samples. Related work on tissues
of exposed animals exphasizes the
importance of understanding fiber
behavior in vivo as a factor related
to carcinogenesis.
52
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ERL-DU
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer*:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
IDENTIFY PHYSICAL. MORPHOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL. AND CRYSTALO-
GRAPHIC PROPERTIES OF FINE PARTICLES WHICH GOVERN THEIR
BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY
December, 1979
December, 1983
Philip M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692; FTS: 783-9523
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
P.M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692
The ultimate objective of this cooperative inter!aboratory
research program is to design inexpensive and short-term
tests for assessing the relative biological activity and
carcinogenicity of unknown, complex mineral dust samples.
Exposure to asbestos fibers is a major occupational and
environmental health problem. The control of dust emissions,
particularly for mining activities, has increasingly been
complicated by concern about mineral particles with varying
degrees of similarity to mineral fibers being released from
asbestos mining and milling. The preparation and charac-
terization of mineral particle samples selected for biological
testing is a critical step in this research since accurate,
unambiguous descriptions of different particle properties and
characteristics are needed in order to learn which factors
control biological activity.
The fiber concentration and size distribution of each test
sample must be accurately determined by transmission electron
microscopy (tern). Other measurements to be made are as follows:
1) electron microscope determination of contaminant particles
53
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ERL-DU
and % total mass present as particles to be tested; 2) x-ray
diffraction determination of mineral mass concentration and
presence of mineral impurities; 3) energy dispersive x-ray
fluorescence analysis of particle chemistry; 4) selected area
electron diffraction identification of minerals and mineral
fiber orientations including identification of preferred
crystal faces; 5) scanning electron microscopy of particle
surface features; 6) crystal lattice imaging (tern) to deter-
mine type and density of crystal internal defect structures
in representative particles; 7) particle and total sample
areas and zeta potential; 8) exploration of methods for
measurement of physical properties of microscopic particles,
such as tensile strength, which may determine biological
activity; and 9) leaching tests to determine particle durabil-
ity. Transmission electron microscope examination of exposed
animal tissue will quantitatively measure particle retention
as a function of time, size, shape, chemistry, crystalography,
and asbestiform character.
Characterization of mineral fiber samples used in intraplural
and intratracheal injection studies with rats at HERL - RTP
is in progress and sample properties are being related to
tumor production in each test. Initial results indicate that
fiber length may not be the most important criterion for
carcinogenicity of inhaled mineral fibers. The single most
important characteristic of these fibers, related to their
carcinogenicity, appears to be the ability to break down into
many thinner fibers while residing within the tissue.
*This study is being conducted in collaboration with the Health
Effects Research laboratory - Research Triangle Park. See
also, Evaluation of Health Effects and Toxic Potential of
Nonasbestos Mineral Fibers. HERL-RTP, D. Coffin.
54
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ERL-DU
Project Title: INFLUENCE OF DRINKING WATER FINE PARTICLE CONCENTRATIONS
ON PASSAGE OF FINE PARTICLES THROUGH HUMAN URINARY TRACT
Starti ng Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
February, 1978
December, 1981
Philip M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692; FTS: 783-9523
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Research Laboratory
National Water Quality Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
P.M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692
The purpose of this study is to determine the number
of microscopic particles, especially mineral fibers,
ingested with drinking water, that may be absorbed by the
body and eventually eliminated via the urinary tract. In
addition, time relationships for particle accumulation and
retention will be obtained. Particular attention will be
placed on the impact of a municipal water filtration plant
on the reduction of urine particle concentrations.
Approximately 170 urine samples were systematically collected
from 12 residents of Two Harbors, Minnesota during 1978,
before and after installation of a filtration plant to remove
amphibole fibers from the water supply (spring 1978). Sample
preparation and transmission electron microscope analysis for
urine fiber concentrations is in progress. Water supply fiber
concentrations for the sampling period have been determined
and indicate approximately 99% removal of amphibole fibers
from raw water. The time relationship of human urine fiber
concentrations to drinking water exposure will be determined
when microscope analysis of urine samples is complete.
This study is now being conducted in conjunction with, Quanti-
tative Electron Microscope Analyses of Tissue for Human
Inorganic Particle Exposure Assessment, ERL-Duluth, P. Cook.
55
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ERL-DU
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
QUANTITATIVE ELECTRON MICROSCOPE ANALYSIS OF TISSUE FOR
HUMAN INORGANIC PARTICLE EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT
January, 1979
December, 1981
Philip M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692; FTS: 783-9523
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
P.M. Cook
Tel. (218) 727-6692
This research is being conducted to quantify the tissue accumu-
lation of microscopic particles, such as asbestos fibers and
fly ash, as a consequence of human and animal exposure, parti-
cularly from contaminated water, beverages, and food.
Bulk tissue particle concentrations are being compared to con-
centrations and characteristics of exposure particles. Tissue
samples from animals and humans exposed to known concentrations
of microscopic particles such as asbestos fibers are examined
by quantitative transmission electron microscopy. Fibers and
other particles in tissue are identified by selected area elec-
tron diffraction and energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence ana-
lysis. If tissue preparation techniques developed are suffi-
ciently sensitive to allow detection of individual particles,
fiber transport to various organs will be studied with regard
to relative concentrations, particle size differences, and
chemical alteration. An estimate of total body burden of
mineral fibers will be compared to total ingestion exposure
and urine elimination in order to estimate the fraction of
ingested mineral fibers which pass the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Human tissue fiber concentrations resulting from environmental
56
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ERL-DU
exposure will be compared to like tissues from occupationally
exposed individuals.
This study is now being conducted in conjunction with,
Influence of Drinking Water Fine Particle Concentrations on
Passage of Fine Particles Through Human Urinary Tract,
ERL-Duluth, P. Cook.
57
-------
ERL-DU
Project Title: METHOD FOR IDENTIFICATION AND CONCENTRATION MEASUREMENT
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
OF FINE PARTICLES IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS
January, 1979
August, 1980
Allan R. Batterman
Tel. (218) 727-6692; FTS: 783-9523
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
National Water Quality Laboratory
Environmental Research Laboratory
6201 Congdon Boulevard
Duluth, Minnesota 55804
A. R. Batterman
Tel. (218) 727-6692
The objective of this study is to develop, evaluate, and use
electron microscope procedures for identification and
concentration determination of fine particles, including
asbestos fibers, in tissue from aquatic organisms that have
been exposed to such fine particles.
Tissue samples from lake trout, brook trout, catfish, and
Arctic char are being carefully examined by transmission
electron microscopy. The lake trout, brook trout, and catfish
were exposed to amphibole fibers in Lake Superior water
(approximately 50 x 10^ amphibole fibers/liter). These
fibers were found in muscle, liver and kidney samples. The
Arctic char were exposed to chrysotile asbestos fibers which
were also found in muscle and kidney samples. However, chrys-
otile is a common contaminant, which makes it extremely diffi-
cult to attribute chrysotile fiber content to bioaccumulation.
Preliminary findings show fish can accumulate mineral fibers
in tissues; muscle fiber concentrations appear to be 1/12 the
water fiber concentrations, kidney fiber concentrations appear
to be as much as 40 times higher than water concentrations.
Comparison of lake trout captured from Lake Superior areas
with and without amphibole fiber-free diet in Lake Superior
water containing amphibole fibers have barely detectable fiber
concentrations, however, exact determination of fiber
ingestion uptake as a function of food chain exposure
concentration and particle size distribution will require a
controlled laboratory exposure of fish to a well characterized
diet for an extended period of time. A report summarizing
this study is forthcoming.
58
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OVERVIEW!
ENVIRONMENTAL I RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK]
SCIENCE RESEARCH LABORATORY
Electron microscopy is currently
the principal method used to identify
and characterize asbestos fibers in
ambient air and water samples. Though
slow and expensive, this method yields
much information of importance in
assessing population exposure and health
risk, including fiber count and mass
concentrations, and fiber diameters and
lengths. Because of significant
variations in technique, however,
comparisons of data from different
laboratories have shown wide dis-
crepancies in results for the same
samples. This situation prompted a
two-year in-depth study, by the Environ-
mental Science Research Laboratory
(ESRL) - Research Triangle Park, that
has produced and validated a provisional
optimum electron microscope procedure
for use as a research or reference
method.
Substantial progress has also
been made in other ESRL efforts to
develop new methodology needed for the
measurement of airborne asbestos. In
one of these projects, a prototype
asbestos analyzer has been designed and
built using special x-ray diffraction
optics and involving prealignment of
asbestos fibers in a sample. It can
detect submicrogram amounts of asbestos
and measure them quantitatively.
Electron microscope
59
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ESRL-RTP
Because equipment cost and time per
analysis are both far less than for
electron microscopy, as much as a
tenfold reduction in cost per analysis
may be possible. Thus this technique
appears promising as a rapid, low-cost
screening method for routine application.
In another project, an aerosol
fiber counter has been designed and
built using two detectors that identify
fibers on the basis of light-scattering
dissymmetry. Initial tests of the
counter have shown it to be an effective
continuous monitor for asbestos fibers.
This type of instrument should be
useful for problem assessment, for rapid
screening and for checking the effective-
ness of control measures.
Electron micrograph showing chrysotile asbestos insulating materia1
(magnified 500 times)
Electron micrograph showing chrysotile asbestos insulating material
(magnified 2,000 times)
60
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ESRL-RTP
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
APPLICATION OF AN ASBESTOS ANALYSIS TO ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES
January, 1979
December, 1980
Jack Wagman
Tel. (919) 541-3009; FTS: 629-3009
Emissions Measurement and Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Department of Defense
Radiation Technology Division
Naval Research Laboratory
Washington, D.C. 20375
L.S. Birks
Tel. (202) 767-2154
In order to develop a rapid bulk analytical method for the
measurement of airborne asbestos, a prototype asbestos
analyzer has been designed and built by the Naval Research
Laboratory (NRL) using special x-ray diffraction optics and
involving prealignment of asbestos fibers in a sample. It
can detect submicrogram amounts of asbestos and measure them
quantitatively. A final report was published, Birks, L.S.,
Gilfrich, J.V., and Sandelin, J.W., "X-ray Analysis of
Airborne Asbestos." EPA-600/2-78-194, August, 1978.
The objectives of this study were: (1) to evaluate the
performance of the x-ray Diffraction Asbestos Analyzer
(XRDAA) designed and built by NRL under a previous agreement,
and (2) to determine operating costs and analysis time
involved in its routine use.
Sample specimens were prepared by EPA using separation
techniques currently under development and using fiber
alignment as perfected in ESRL-RTP. NRL furnished alignment
grids, operated analyzer, and evaluated results.
The study revealed that 0.1 micrograms of Asbestos (chryso-
tile or amosite) are detectable in 500-second measurements.
Work continues on sample preparation techniques.
61
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ESRL-RTP
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR AN ASBESTOS AEROSOL MONITOR
July, 1976
June, 1978
Jack Wagman
Tel. (919) 541-3009; FTS: 629-3009
Emissions Measurement and Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
University of Vermont & State Agricultural College
School of Arts & Sciences
85 S. Prospect Street
Burlington, Vermont 05401
R.W. Detenbeck, D.R. Hemenway, Department of Physics
Tel. (802) 656-3036
A light-scattering aerosol-fiber counter, designed to facili-
tate the monitoring of airborne asbestos fibers, has been
constructed and subjected to initial tests. The counter can
discriminate among particle shapes, as well as sizes, by
employing more than one photodetector. The project is a
feasibility study for a continuous-flow, light scattering
aerosol counter which can discriminate asbestos fibers from
more symmetric shapes by their light-scattering signatures.
The optical system can count randomly oriented respirable
fibers with about 25 percent efficiency, but its efficiency
has been increased by aligning the particles in a combination
of electrical and fluid-velocity-gradient fields.
Fabrication of a breadboard instrument has been completed.
This instrument is being evaluated using laboratory-generated
fibrous and nonfibrous aerosols.
A final report has been prepared and will be published shortly.
62
-------
ESRL-RTP
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Project Title: DEVELOPMENT OF GLASS ARRAY IMPACTORS FOR SEPARATION OF FIBROUS
AEROSOLS
June, 1979
June, 1981
Jack Wagman
Tel. (919) 541-3009; FTS: 629-3009
Emissions Measurement and Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
University of Maryland
College Park Campus
School of Engineering
College Park, Maryland 20742
J.W. Gentry, Department of Chemical Engineering
Tel. (301) 454-5098
The objective of this research is to develop a means for
sampling fibrous aerosols that will separate fibers from
nonfibrous or isometric particles and thus facilitate the
measurement of airborne fiber concentrations, e.g., of
asbestos, by reducing interferences by background particles.
The approach is based on previously reported observations
that fibers are aligned by flow gradients as they approach
and pass through parallel capillary arrays, such as Nucleopore*
filters and porous glass disks of sufficiently large pore
size.
Performi ng
Organization:
j_n vest 1 gator:
Abstract:
63
-------
ESRL-RTP
Project Title: EVALUATION OF ELECTRON MICROSCOPE METHODS FOR MEASUREMENT
OF AIRBORNE ASBESTOS CONCENTRATIONS AND EVOLVEMENT OF AN
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer*:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
OPTIMAL PROCEDURE
May, 1975
May, 1977
Jack Wagman
Tel. (919) 541-3009; FTS: 629-3009
Emissions Measurement and Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
IIT Research Institute
10 West 35th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
A.V. Samudra, C.F. Harwood
Tel. (312) 567-4160
Currently, the electron microscope is the only instrument
capable of defining the morphology, chemistry, and crystal
structure of asbestos fibers. Several laboratories perform
the analysis for airborne asbestos fibers, and while they
have reasonable internal self-consistency, the results
obtained by the separate laboratories are often widely
different. The objective of this program is to evaluate the
various methods currently in use in the various laboratories,
statistically evaluate the subprocedures used, and arrive at
an optimum composite procedure. The optimum procedures will
be tested and statistically evaluated. A handbook on the
optimum procedure will be written in which detailed instruc-
tions on the method will be given without any ambiguity.
Samples will be sent out to other laboratories for analysis
using the optimum procedure as described in the manual. The
interlaboratory results will then be evaluated.
A provisional methodology manual was published, Samudra, A.V.,
Harwood, C.F., Stockham, J.D., "Electron Microscope Measure-
ment of Airborne Asbestos Concentrations." EPA-600/
2-77-178, August 1977 (revised in June 1978).
*See also Evaluation and Collaborative Testing of the Provisional
Method for Measurement of Airborne Asbestos, EMSL - Research
Triangle Park, M. Beard.
64
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ESRL-RTP
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Project Title: MORPHOLOGY AND COMPOSITION OF PARTICULATES EMITTED RY MOBILE
AND STATIONARY SOURCES
September, 1972
September, 1981
Fred Haynie
Tel. (919) 541-2535; FTS: 629-2535
Emissions Measurement & Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Emissions Measurement & Characterization Division
Environmental Sciences Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
J.L. Miller
Tel. (919) 541-2425
This study, using electron-optical techniques, is being
conducted to determine the morphology and elemental com-
position of particulate matter emitted by mobile sources.
The analyses will be carried out using transmission and
scanning electron microscopy in conjunction with electron
diffraction, electron microprobe measurements, and advanced
image analysis techniques.
Particulate sources currently under study include automobile
brake linings and diesel engines, and specific items being
studied include lead and asbestos samples.
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
65
-------
Serpentine asbestos in rock formation
66
-------
F
OVERVIEW!
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LARORATORY
Because of the widespread use of
asbestos and asbestos-containing
materials, and the hazards associated
with exposure to these minerals, the
study of the health and environmental
effects of exposure are essential. The
Environmental Research Laboratory (ERL)
- Athens conducts research on the
occurrence, movement, transformation,
impact, and control of environmental
contaminants, and develops new tech-
niques for identifying chemical consti-
tuents of water and soil.
ERL-Athens has been involved in
the development and improvement of
an interim analytical method for the
accurate measurement of asbestos in
water using an electron microscope, as
well as a simple rapid screening
method that can be used for the pre-
liminary examination of a large number
of water samples.
Although microscopy has proven to
be an effective technique for identi-
fying and measuring asbestos in water,
no consensus has been reached among
analytical chemists concerning the
ATHMSl
Chrysotile asbestos fibers (magnified 50,000 X)
effects of storing water samples of
asbestos and no data has been developed
on the effects of different storage
techniques. This storage problem is of
considerable concern to analytical
chemists, particularly in the develop-
ment of analytical protocols. ERL-
Athens is studying the effect of pre-
servatives and storage techniques on the
size distribution of asbestos particles
in water.
Electron diffraction pattern of chrysotile asbestos
67
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ERL-ATH
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performi ng
Organization:
Investi gator:
Abstract:
INVESTIGATING THE EFFECT OF PRESERVATION/STORAGE TECHNIQUES
January, 1979
January, 1981
J. MacArthur Long
Tel. (404) 546-3525; FTS: 250-3525
Analytical Chemistry Branch
Environmental Research Laboratory
College Station Road
Athens, Georgia 30613
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Analytical Chemistry Branch
Environmental Research Laboratory
College Station Road
Athens, Georgia 30605
J. M. Long
Tel. (404) 546-3525
The objective of this research is the investigation of the
effect of preservatives and storage techniques to determine
their effect on size distribution of asbestos particles. The
long-term effects of mercuric chloride preservative and cold
storage are being studied.
Athens laboratory research shows that lake water refrigerated
for approximately 1 year and treated with ultrasound prior to
sample preparation showed the same asbestos fiber
concentration as the control samples. When the stored lake
water samples were merely shaken by hand without the
ultrasound prior to sample preparation, however, the fiber
concentration was significantly lower (p=0.05) than that of
the control.
This ultrasound treatment together with refrigerated storage
can now be specified for samples that cannot be analyzed
immediately. Mercuric chloride is used to prevent bacterial
growth in water samples during storage, but no information has
been available on the effects of the preservative on accurate
measurement of stored chrysotile asbestos. Recent studies
demonstrated that accurate measurement by electron microscopy
could be obtained for chrysotile stored for as long as 6
months. All samples received ultrasound treatment prior to
specimen grid preparation. Comparison of the preserved
samples with the controls showed that the mercuric chloride
had no significant effect (0.01 Student t-test) on fiber
concentration for either storage time. The finding allows
analytical chemists to store these samples with confidence
that initial measurement after storage—or repeat measurement
after storage—will accurately reveal fiber concontraiton.
68
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ERL-ATH
Project Title: DEVELOPMENT OF A ROUTINE RAPID METHOD FOR ANALYZING ASBESTOS
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
IN WATER (NON-ELECTRON MICROSCOPE METHOD)
June, 1975
June, 1978
Charles H. Anderson
Tel. (404) 546-3138; FTS: 250-3138
Analytical Chemistry Branch
Environmental Research Laboratory
College Station Road
Athens, Georgia 30613
Battelle Memorial Institute
505 King Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43201
C.W. Melton
Tel. (614) 424-6424
The objective of this contract was to develop a method for
rapidly analyzing water samples for asbestos content through
new and unique and simple approaches that did not depend upon
electron microscopy.
During the first yearv methods of asbestos separation based
on continuous particle electrophoresis, dielectric constant,
and solvent extraction were investigated. During the second
year, simple methods of quantisation of the separated asbes-
tos were developed. This research led to the development of
a separation technique involving the extraction of chrysotile
from a water sample into an immersible organic liquid phase.
This procedure is referred to as two-phase liquid separation.
In addition, a light microscope counting technique and a
colorimetric spot test detection technique were also developed
and combined with the liquid separation procedure.
Results indicate that 75 percent of the chrysotile is extracted
by the two-phase liquid separation procedures. The results
of the research are summarized in, Melton, C.W., Anderson,
S.J., Dye, C.F., Chase, W.E., and Heffelfinger, R.E., "Develop-
ment of a Rapid Analytical Method for Determining Asbestos in
Water." EPA-600/4-78-006, December, 1978.
-------
ERL-ATH
Project Title: DEVELOPMENT OF A REFEREE METHOD FOR ASBESTOS IN WATER USING
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organizations:
Investigators:
Abstract:
THE ELECTRON MICROSCOPE
September, 1974
September, 1981
J. MacArthur Long
Tel. (404) 546-3525; FTS: 250-3525
Analytical Chemistry Branch
Environmental Research Laboratory
College Station Road
Athens, Georgia 30613
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Analytical Chemistry Branch
Environmental Research Laboratory
College Station Road
Athens, Georgia 30613
Ontario Research Foundation
Mississauga, Ontario
Canada L5K IBS
J.M. Long; E.J. Chatfield, Electron Optics Laboratory
Tel. (416) 424-3525
This study is a continuation of an earlier study that estab-
lished sample preparation techniques and examined alternative
transfer techniques. The objectives of this research are to
obtain a more positive identification of amphibole asbestos,
to refine the techniques for eliminating organic matter prior
to analysis in order to preserve the integrity of the sample,
and to develop methods for the physical and chemical charac-
terization of particulates. The ultimate objective is
to write a referee method.
To date, an interim method has been written, Anderson, C.H.,
and Long, J.M., "Interim method for Determining Asbestos in
Water." EPA-600/4-80-005, January 1980. This method involves:
1) separation of fibers from water by filtration on a sub-
micron pore size membrane filter; 2) counting the fibers,
after dissolving the filter material, by direct observation
in a transmission electron microscope; and 3) verifying fiber
identity by selected area diffraction.
It appears that the ozone-UV treatment of water samples to
remove organics is potentially superior to the technique of
low temperature plasma ashing. Light scattering methods
are also being developed as a means of rapidly measuring
asbestos in water.
70
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OVERVIEW I
INTERAGENCY I 1
AND OTHER ORO RESEARCH PROJECTS
The Office of Research and
Development conducts asbestos research
in cooperation with other federal
departments. These include: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services,
National Institute of Environmental
Health Sciences and the National Insti-
tute for Occupational Safety and Health;
U.S. Department of Commerce, National
Bureau of Standards; and the U.S.
Department of Energy, Oak Ridge National
Laboratory.
In addition, the Environmental
Research Laboratory (ERL) - Gulf Breeze
has included asbestos in one portion of
their overall carcinogen research
project.
71
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officers:
Performing
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
STUDY OF CARCINOGENIC POTENTIAL OF ASBESTOS FIBERS ON RODENTS
August, 1977
September, 1982
John A. Moore
Tel. (919) 541-3267
U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services
National Institute of
Environmental Health
Sciences
P.O. Box 12233
Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina 27701
James R. Millette
Tel. (513) 684-7462; FTS:
Field Studies Division
Health Effects Research
Laboratory
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
684-7462
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Bethesda, Maryland 20205
J.A. Moore
Tel. (919) 541-3267
The research project will generate technical data needed to assess
the carcinogenic potential of orally administered asbestos fibers.
The NIEHS/EPA oral asbestos studies in rats and hamsters repre-
sent a systematic attempt to assess the biological effects
associated with primary ingestion of selected asbestos fibers.
The objectives of the studies include: assessing of biological
(carcinogenic) effects as a consequence of exposure to one of
several types of asbestos, and assessing if an interaction exists
between a chemical carcinogen that is known to produce bowel
cancer, and ingestion of asbestos.
The summary of this research is published in Moore, J.A.,
"NIEHS Oral Asbestos Studies." National Bureau of Standards
Special Publication 506, Proceedings of the Workshop on
Asbestos: Definitions and Measurement Methods held at NBS,
Gaithersburg, MD, July 18-20, 1977.(Issued November 1978).
The protocol includes long-term studies of the rat and
hamster, aimed at the elucidation of the carcinogenic and
co-carcinogenic role of asbestiform fibers.
72
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Finding Date:
.Project
Officers:
Performi ng
TJrganization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
ELEMENTAL ANALYSES OF ASBESTIFORM MINERALS
October, 1979
September, 1980
Arnold R. Brody
Tel. (919) 541-3243; FTS: 629-3243
U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services
Pulmonary Function and Toxicology
Laboratory
National Institute of Environmental
Health Sciences
P.O. Box 12233
Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina 27709
Charles Nowman
Tel. (202) 426-3974;
FTS: 426-3974
U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency 426-3974
Office of Research and
Development
RD 682
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
Pulmonary Function and Toxicology Laboratory
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
P.O. Box 12233
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
A.R. Brody, L. Hill
Tel. (919) 541-3243; FTS:
629-3243
The elemental content of inhalable inorganic particles may
play an important role in cytotoxic events leading to pulmonary
disease. There is substantial evidence that the size and
shape of asbestos fibers are also critical factors. The
purpose of this research was to determine which of these
factors was the most important, through in vitro experiments
using pulmonary cells, such as alveolar macrophages, and through
animal inhalation studies where cytotoxic dusts can be
investigated in situ.
Transmission and scanning electron microscopy in concert with
x-ray energy spectrometry showed that significant amounts of
Mg had slowly leached from asbestos fibers after one month
in 2.5% glutaraldehyde. Treatment with IN HC1 caused a rapid
(one hour) loss of significant Mg content which reached a
plateau at about 4 hours. In contrast, two hours after
phagocytosis by alveolar macrophages, no Mg loss was detected.
Chrysotile fibers in the lungs of rats showed considerable
variability in Mg content. A report, to be published in
J. of Environ. Pathol. & Toxicol., is forthcoming.
73
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officers*:
STANDARD REFERENCE MATERIALS FOR ASBESTOS IN AIR
March, 1978
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
Michael E. Beard
Tel. (919) 541-2623; FTS: 629-2623
Quality Assurance Division
Environmental Monitoring Systems
Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina 27711
September, 1981
John Small
Tel. (301) 921-2875;
FTS: 921-2875
U.S. Department of Commerce
National Bureau of Standards
Bldg. 222, Rm. A121
Washington, DC 20234
U.S. Department of Commerce
National Bureau of Standards
Bldg. 22, Rm. A121
Washington, DC 20234
J. Small, E. Steel
Tel. (301) 921-2875
The objective of this research is to provide calibration standards
and evaluate basic measurement methods for asbestos in the at-
mosphere.
The approach involves the development of Transmission Electron
Microscope (TEM) grid research materials consisting of chryso-
tile and amphibole asbestos in an urban air particulate matrix.
In addition, 0.2]j Nucleopore® filter research materials
with known concentrations and distributions of chrysotile and/
or amphibole asbestos in an urban air particulate are being
developed.
Round Robin testing with TEM grid research materials has begun.
A workshop was held in October, 1980 to discuss the prepara-
tion and analysis of the standards.
*See also Standard Reference Material for Asbestos in Air. EMSL -
Research Triangle Park, M. Beard.
74
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title:
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officers:
INSULATING MATERIALS. LONG-TERM INHALATION EFFECTS
October, 1977
Perf ormi ng
Organization:
Investigator:
Abstract:
October, 1981
William Moorman
Tel. (513) 684-8275; FTS: 684-8275
U. S. Department of Health and
Human Services
National Institute for Occupational
Safety & Health
4676 Columbia Parkway
Cincinnati, Ohio 45226
Charles Nowman
Tel. (202) 426-3974;
FTS: 426-3974
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
Office of Research
and Development
RD 682
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
Batelle Memorial Institute
505 King Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 45268
R. Mitchell
Tel. (614) 424-7441
Chronic biologic effects following long-term inhalation of
fibrous glass used in insulating trades are being studied via
the contractual route. Specific objectives include: 1)
the evaluation of carcinogenic risk; 2) the evaluation of
the fibrogenic potential; and 3) the character of pulmo-
nary responses, both physiological and pathological (includ-
ing deposition patterns). The results from this effort will
be useful in evaluating the validity of the NIOSH-proposed
standard.
Animal inhalation toxicologic studies are being conducted
on a 7 hr/day, 35 hr/wk, 18-month exposure regimen. Four
treatment groups plus one control group are being used. Two
groups will have a total mass of 15 mg/cu.m and two groups
will have a total mass of 5 mg/cu.m. Within the 15 mg/cu.m
exposures, one group will have fibers 4-6y diameter and
greater than 20y length; the other will have fibers ly
diameter and greater than 10y length. Both of the 15 mg/
cu.m treatment groups will receive fiber with binder. The 5
mg/cu.m groups will receive fibers ly in diameter; the first
group will have fibers longer than 10y in length and the
75
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INTERAGENCY
second group will have fibers less than 10y in length.
Neither of these groups will receive fiber with binder.
Two species of laboratory animals will be required. Fifty
male and fifty female rats and twelve male cynomolgus
monkeys are in each treatment group.
Clinical chemistry determinations will be performed on all
monkeys prior to exposure and at the terminal sacrifice.
Rats will be tested at termination only. Pulmonary function
tests will be performed on all monkeys at baseline and after
9 and 18 months of exposure. Gross and histopathological
examinations will be conducted on all animals which are
moribund, die spontaneously, or are sacrificed.
76
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title: MORTALITY AND INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE STUDY OF WORKERS IN
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officers:
Performing
Organizations:
COAL FIRED POWER PLANTS
October, 1976
September, 1981
Joseph Costello
Tel. (304) 599-7476; FTS: 923-7476
U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services
National Institute for Occupational
Safety & Health
944 Chestnut Ridge Road
Morgantown, West Virginia 26505
National Institute for Occupational
Safety & Health
944 Chestnut Ridge Road
Morgantown, West Virginia 26505
Charles Nowman
Tel. (202) 426-3974;
FTS: 426-3974
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
Office of Research
and Development
RD 682
40L M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
Tennessee Valley Authority
Health Unit
Chattanooga, Tennessee
37401
Investigators:
Abstract:
J. Costello, W. Jones
Tel. (304) 599-7476
T. Waters
Tel. (615) 755-3345
Pulmonary diseases and impairments such as airway obstructive
diseases and pneumoconiotic lesions, could arise in part from
exposures to gases emitted during coal combustion and expo-
sures to coal dust when coal is burned as fuel for steam-
powered electricity-generating plants. Those workers who
handled the asbestos sheets used to insulate steam pipes may
also show evidence of health damage — asbestosis or malig-
nancies. In order to conduct research on occupational safety
and health problems of TVA employees, a memorandum of under-
standing between the NIOSH and TVA was signed in 1976 specify-
ing overall responsibilities for cooperative studies.
Sub-agreement I under this memorandum established Industrial
Hygiene studies of workers in coal-fired power plants. The
TVA will conduct detailed cross-sectional Industrial Hygiene
studies of workers in selected occupations. Existing indus-
trial hygiene data of past exposures, along with information
on control methods will be reviewed in order to retrospec-
tively estimate cumulative working lifetime exposures in
77
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INTERAGENCY
occupations where there has been exposure to particulates
or gases. This information will be used to attempt dose
assessment for mortality studies of workers exposed to
these same pollutants in the past.
Sub-agreement II, Epidemiological Mortality Study of TVA
Employees, estimates the effects in terms of higher-than-
expected death rates and/or early retirement due to disa-
bility involving principally cardiopulmonary disease or
specified malignancies linked to earlier exposures to air
contaminants in the workplace environment.
78
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title: COMPLETION OF REEP DOCUMENTS AND INCORPORATION OF TECHNICAL
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
Project
Officers:
Performing
firgan i z_ation:
Investigator:
Abstract:
REVIEWS
July, 1975
January, 1979
Tim Ensiminger
Tel. (615) 574-7794; FTS: 624-7794
U. S. Department of Energy
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P.O. Box X, Oak Ridge Operations
Office
Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Jerry F. Stara
Tel. (513) 684-7531
U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency
Environmental Criteria and
Assessment Office
26 West St. Clair Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
U.S. Department of Energy
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P.O. Box X, Oak Ridge Operations
Office
Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Tim Ensiminger
Tel. (615) 574-7794; FTS: 624-7794
The "Reviews of the Environmental Effects of Pollutants"
series (REEPS) represents an extensive completion of relevant
research and forms an up-to-date compendium of the environ-
mental effect data on selected pollutants. The REEP documents
contain a general summary and comprehensive discussion of the
following topics as they relate to each compound: occurrence;
synthesis and use; analytical methodology; biological aspects
in microorganisms, plants, wild and domestic animals, and
humans; persistence in the environment, and an assessment
of present and potential environmental hazards. Current
research needs are also included.
Reviews of the following pollutants have been prepared: Mercury,
Cadmium, Chromium, Endrin, Mirex/Kepone, Cyanides, Benzidine,
Chlorophenols, Beryllium, Toxaphene, Fluoride, and Hexachloro-
cyclopentadiene. The REEP for Asbestos is currently in
preparation, and is awaiting a final environmental assessment
chapter.
79
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INTERAGENCY
Project Title: DEVELOPMENT OF A FLOWING WATER CARCIN(F
Starting Date:
Ending Date:
EPA Project
Officer:
Performing
Organization:
Investigators:
Abstract:
FISH AND AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES
September, 1978
September, 1984
John A. Couch
Tel. (904) 932-5311; FTS: 686-9011
Environmental Research Laboratory
Sabine Island; Gulf Breeze, Florida
32561
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Research Laboratory
Sabine Island; Gulf Breeze, Florida 32561
J.A. Couch, W.P. Schoor, L.A. Courtney, J.T. Winstead,
S.S. Foss
Tel. (904) 932-5311
The purpose of this study is to provide information on the
fate and effects of carcinogens in the aquatic environment
and to develop carcinogen assays utilizing aquatic species
to supplement mammalian assays.
The approach is as follows: 1) design experimental flow-
through and static systems for exposing aquatic organisms to
carcinogens or suspect chemicals; 2) select and test marine
and freshwater species for their responsiveness and sensiti-
vity to known or suspect carcinogens; 3) compare oncogenic
sensitivity of aquatic species and standard mammalian test
species to known carcinogens; 4) obtain uptake, bioconcen-
tration, and metabolic data on carcinogens in aquatic animals.
A fish carcinogen assay exposure system has been designed,
constructed, and is now being tested in long-term exposures of
fishes to the pesticide Trifluralin, a suspect carcinogen.
Reports on the use of oysters as bioindicators of carcinogens,
demonstrated experimentally in the laboratory, have been
published. Research on the fate and effects of asbestos on
fish has begun.
To date, an aquarium fish, the glass perch, has been injected
with asbestos particles intraperitoneally and maintained for
over six months. Some of the fish have been examined histologi-
cally with few or no effects of the asbestos revealed. Work
is continuing with the aquarium fish in order to determine the
fate of asbestos in the living animal. A report summarizing
the overall carcinogen research is in press, Couch, J.A.,
Schoor, W.P, "Progress Report on the NCI/EPA Collaborative
Program. Project 3: Effects of Carcinogens, Mutagens and
Teratogens on Nonhuman Species (Aquatic Animals)," H. Kraybill,
ed.
US ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
REGION 5 LIBRARY (PL-12J)
77 WEST JACKSON BLVD 12TH FLOOR
CHICAGO IL 60604-3590
80
t US GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1981-757-064/0289
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ORD Laboratories Active in Asbestos Research
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
(ORD)
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL
ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
(OEET)
OFFICE OF MONITORING
& TECHNICAL SUPPORT
(OMTS)
OFFICE OF
HEALTH RESEARCH
(OHR)
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL
PROCESSES
& EFFECTS RESEARCH
(OEPER)
INDUSTRIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Cincinnati, OH
(IERL-CI)
MUNICIPAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Cincinnati, OH
(MERL-CI)
ENVIRONMENTAL
MONITORING SYSTEMS
LABORATORY
Research Triangle
Park, NC (EMSL-RTP)
ENVIRONMENTAL
MONITORING SYSTEMS
LABORATORY
Las Vegas, NV
(EMSL-LV)
HEALTH EFFECTS
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Cincinnati, OH
(HERL-CI)
HEALTH EFFECTS
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Research Triangle
Park, NC
(HERL-RTP)
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH
LABORATORY
Duluth, MN
(ERL-DU)
ENVIRONMENTAL
SCIENCES RESEARCH
LABORATORY
Research Triangle
Park, NC (ESRL-RTP)
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Athens, GA
(ERL-ATH)
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Gulf Breeze, FL
(ERL-GB)
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