Poisoning from tellurium and its toxic compounds in industry

Abstract

Tellurium has been primarily used in the steel industry for the past 40 years. This material is used for the manufacture of solar cells, lasers, photoresistors, and counters of radioactive radiation. Cadmium tellurium batteries are the second most popular solar technology. Another important application of tellurium is in the manufacture of thermoelectric generators. In the metallurgical industry, tellurium is used as an additive to metals and alloys. Tellurium and its compounds enter the body mainly through the respiratory system, as well as through the mouth and skin. Penetration into the body through the respiratory tract causes nausea, bronchitis, and pneumonia. The tellurium compounds are restored to elementary tellurium or amenable to methylation (methyl telluride has a characteristic garlic odor; it is less toxic than tellurium) in the body. Tellurium is excreted through the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. Methyl telluride is excreted from the body partially with exhaled air and with sweat. For the diagnosis of acute heavy metal poisoning, blood is mainly used. The use of updated algorithm-criteria for assessing the severity of clinical manifestations of systemic organ toxicity of poisons provides an appropriate level of diagnosis of disorders of vital body functions. Treatment of such patients should include antidote and symptomatic therapy depending on the severity of clinical manifestations. To prevent the development of telluric intoxication, first of all, it is necessary to apply maximum sealing and automation of production processes. It is also necessary to introduce ventilation in production facilities and to carry out preliminary and periodic medical examinations of workers without fail. The use of personal protective equipment is also required.