"Cadmium dust" refers to the fine particles of the metallic element cadmium. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈkæd.mi.əm dʌst/. The "c" in "cadmium" is pronounced as a "k" sound, the "i" is pronounced as a short "i" sound, the "d" is pronounced with a hard "d" sound, and the "m" is pronounced with a nasal "m" sound. In the word "dust," the "u" is pronounced as a short "ʌ" sound, the "s" is pronounced as a "s" sound, and the "t" is pronounced with a hard "t" sound.
Cadmium dust is an airborne particulate matter consisting of tiny particles or fine powder that contain the chemical element cadmium (Cd). Cadmium is a soft, bluish-white metal commonly found in the Earth's crust and is often extracted as a byproduct of zinc production. In its solid state, cadmium is relatively stable; however, cadmium dust poses significant health and environmental risks if released into the air.
Exposure to cadmium dust can occur in various occupational settings including mining, smelting, electroplating, and battery manufacturing industries. Inhalation is the primary route of exposure as the dust particles can be easily carried by air currents. The small size of these particles allows them to be deeply inhaled into the lungs, where they can accumulate and exert toxic effects on human health.
Cadmium is a known human carcinogen, and long-term inhalation of cadmium dust has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Furthermore, it can also damage other organs such as the kidneys, liver, and cardiovascular system. Chronic exposure to cadmium dust can lead to respiratory diseases, kidney dysfunction, and bone damage. It is important to note that even short-term exposure to high concentrations of cadmium dust can cause acute health effects, including irritation of the respiratory system, nausea, and vomiting.
Due to its hazardous properties, strict regulation and control measures are in place to minimize cadmium dust exposure in occupational and environmental settings. These measures include the use of personal protective equipment, proper engineering controls, and regular monitoring to ensure safe working conditions.
The word "cadmium" comes from the Latin word "cadmia", which originally referred to a type of zinc ore. This Latin term itself derives from the Greek word "kadmeia", which referred to the ancient city of Kadmeia or Cadmea (modern-day Thebes) where this type of ore was found. As for the word "dust", it stems from the Old English word "dust" or "dusts", which means fine particles of matter or debris. Therefore, "cadmium dust" refers to the fine particles or debris composed of cadmium.