Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal cookware

Abstract

TPS 721: Low and middle income countries: e-waste, occupational health, Exhibition Hall, Ground floor, August 27, 2019, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Background: In South Africa, the use of artisanal cookware made from the recycling of scrap metal is widespread. However, the potential of metal exposure from the use of such cookware has not been investigated. The aim of the study was to determine the risk of metal exposure posed by artisanal cookware available in South Africa to end users. Methods: Twenty cookware samples were purchased from across South Africa. Aluminum and silicon concentrations were determined using XRF and the total content of 18 elements (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, V and Zn) were determined with ICP-MS. To investigate the leaching of metals, artisanal cookware pieces were boiled in a 3% acetic acid solution over a 2-hour period and each experiment was repeated three times. Post leaching, secondary electron images were obtained with a JEOL Field Emission Electron Probe Microanalyzer. Results: The total aluminum (Al) content ranged from 67% to 93%. Silicon was the second most abundant element with a mean of 13.8 %. The mean Al migration of 509 mg L-1 was over 100 times the maximum permissible level allowed for cookware. Lead was detected in all samples with numerous samples highlighting cause for concern. Cadmium and mercury were detected in all pots across all three migrations. However the levels were low (highest levels detected were 1.6 ug L-1 and 0.26 ug L-1 respectively). Transmission electron microscopy revealed dramatic change in surface structure after leaching of cookware. Conclusion: Public awareness on multi-metal exposure and related risks from the use of artisanal cookware should be a public health priority in relevant settings.