A network for the study of the properties and respiratory health effects of natural mineral dust
Lead Research Organisation:
Durham University
Department Name: Earth Sciences
Abstract
We propose to establish a network and hold workshops to develop understanding of how the composition and surface properties of natural mineral particles (NMPs) give rise to their adverse health effects, including factors associated with weathering, dispersion and atmospheric chemistry. By involving a broad interdisciplinary membership, the network will widen debate on risk assessment and perception, and regulatory activity.
Organisations
Publications
Damby D
(2013)
The respiratory health hazard of tephra from the 2010 Centennial eruption of Merapi with implications for occupational mining of deposits
in Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research
Horwell C
(2009)
Cristobalite in a rhyolitic lava dome: evolution of ash hazard
in Bulletin of Volcanology
Le Blond J
(2010)
Mineralogical analyses and in vitro screening tests for the rapid evaluation of the health hazard of volcanic ash at Rabaul volcano, Papua New Guinea
in Bulletin of Volcanology
| Description | The Network has worked together to rapidly analyze volcanic ash during eruptions, to enable assessment of respiratory health hazard. |
| Exploitation Route | The findings allow evidence-based decision making on public health protection during volcanic eruptions. |
| Sectors | Environment,Healthcare |
| URL | http://www.dur.ac.uk/claire.horwell/ukndhn |
| Description | The Network's aims were to bring together experts in air pollution and particulate impacts, to discuss the impact on natural mineral particles on health. Since that time, we have worked together to rapidly analyze ash during volcanic eruptions and these data are of use for public health decision making during and following eruptions. This has led to my working with the Cabinet Office on the impact of a future eruption to affect the UK. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2008 |
| Sector | Environment,Healthcare |
| Impact Types | Societal,Policy & public services |