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2248461 
Journal Article 
Review 
Refractory ceramic fiber (RCF) toxicity and epidemiology: A review 
Utell, MJ; Maxim, LD 
2010 
Yes 
Inhalation Toxicology
ISSN: 0895-8378
EISSN: 1091-7691 
TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD 
ABINGDON 
22 
500-521 
English 
This paper provides a review of the relevant literature on refractory ceramic fibers (RCFs), summarizing relevant data and information on the manufacture, processing, applications, potential occupational exposure, toxicology, epidemiology, risk analysis, and risk management. RCFs are amorphous fibers used for high-temperature insulation applications. RCFs are less durable/biopersistent than amphibole asbestos, but more durable/biopersistent than many other synthetic vitreous fibers (SVFs). Moreover, as produced/used, some RCFs are respirable. Toxicology studies with rodents using various exposure methods have shown that RCFs can cause fibrosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Interpretation of these animal studies is difficult for various reasons (e.g., overload in chronic inhalation bioassays). Epidemiological studies of occupationally exposed cohorts in Europe and the United States have demonstrated measurable effects (e.g., mild respiratory symptoms and pleural plaques) but no disease (i.e., no interstitial fibrosis, no excess lung cancer, and no mesothelioma) to date. The RCF industry, working cooperatively with various government agencies in the United States, has developed a comprehensive product stewardship program (PSP) to identify and control risks associated with occupational exposure. One provision of the PSP is the adoption of a voluntary recommended exposure guideline (REG) of 0.5 fibers/milliliter (f/ml). Selected on the basis of prudence and demonstrated feasibility, compliance with the REG should reduce risks to levels between 0.073/1000 and 1.2/1000, based on extrapolations from chronic animal inhalation studies. 
Classification; epidemiology; refractory ceramic fiber; toxicology; pleural plaques; occupational exposure; Product Stewardship Program; Recommended Exposure Guideline 
IRIS
• Libby Amphibole Asbestos (Draft, 2011)
     Pulmonary Function Search, Sept 2013
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