Welding fume nanoparticles from solid and flux-cored wires: Solubility, toxicity, and role of fluorides

Welding fume particles are hazardous. Their toxicity likely depends on their composition and reactivity. This study aimed at exploring the role of sodium or other fluorides (NaF), which intentionally added to flux-cored wire electrodes for stainless steel welding, solubility (in phosphate buffered saline) generated welding particles. A multi-analytical particle characterization approach along with in-vitro cell assays was undertaken. The release Cr(VI) Mn from tested as a function fluoride solution concentration. containing NaF released significantly higher amounts compared solid reference fumes, associated increased cytotoxicity genotoxicity in-vitro. No crystalline Na potassium (K) chromates were observed. incorporated in an amorphous mixed oxide. Solution-added did not increase Cr(VI), but contributed reduced both reduction Chemical speciation modeling suggested that metal complexes formed. presence have any direct, possibly indirect, fumes.