The geobiochemistry of cobalt

Abstract

In the crust of the Earth cobalt is present in a greater abundance than lead, molybdenum or cadmium. The concentration and distribution of cobalt is discussed in relation to major terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems. The processes which control or influence the transfer of this element in major ecosystems are evaluated in terms of bioavailability to plants, animals and man. The concept of geochemical provinces is considered in relation to the regional availability of cobalt and then its transfer along foodchains to man. Areas and environments which contain high or low concentrations of cobalt are considered in relation to the health of plants, animals and man; the special case of exposure to cobalt from the manufacturing industry is discussed. The association between cobalt and hard metal disease is noted. The use of various radionuclides of cobalt is considered as a means of tracing cobalt through complex ecosystems. The state of the art for measuring the concentration of cobalt is discussed with special reference to the quality of analytical data and the availability of suitable reference materials.