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Chemical Properties & Specifications
REL-TWA (Time Weighted Average): 0.05 mg Co/m³
PEL-TWA (8-Hour Time Weighted Average): 0.1 mg Co/m³
Hard metals typically contain 85–95% tungsten carbide and 5–15% cobalt
Inhalation exposure can cause hard metal lung disease
Associated with interstitial and obstructive lung disorders
Toxic oxygen species released from tungsten carbide-cobalt mixtures may damage lungs
Risk also reported in workers exposed to cobalt powder with iron and diamond dust
Skin sensitization and allergic reactions to cobalt may occur
Occupational exposure requires strict dust control and respiratory protection
Classified under ACGIH TLV for hard metals containing cobalt and tungsten carbide
