Black lung?

[metalworker77]

When I make charcoal I end up with anything from large bits to charcoal dust, although my forge is outside I am still a bit worried about inhaling the charcoal powder? Is the charcoal powder normally used un forges?

[DocsMachine]

Almost any particulate is harmful to the lungs.

Some, like most household dust and pollens, being largely organic, are dissolved and absorbed by the linings of the lungs.

Inorganics like coal dust (crystallized carbon) can't easily be dissolved or absorbed, and therefore tend to get "encysted"- the mucous lining encloses the particle and essentially seals it in.

The problem here is that, over years of exposure, eventually large portions of the lung lining are encysted particulate, and no longer able to allow air to get close enough to the bloodstream to be absorbed.

Any smoke particulate is bad for you over extended exposure, as is almost any "rock" dust.

Any measure you can do to keep the smoke and dust away from you, is worthwhile in the long run.

Doc.

[ThomasPowers]

Ahhh the chemical definition of "organic" is that it contains carbon so "Inorganics like coal dust (crystallized carbon)" is an oxymoron. And coal is not crystaline. Graphite and diamond are crystaline forms of carbon.

[Phil Patrick]

Of or related to a substance that contains carbon atoms linked together by carbon-carbon bonds. All living matter is organic. The original definition of the term organic related to the source of chemical compounds, with organic compounds being those carbon-containing compounds obtained from plant or animal sources, whereas inorganic compounds were obtained from mineral sources. Compounds containing bonds between carbon atoms can now be made in the laboratory and industrially by man.
ST | Glossary | O

That is to say if one wanted to waste time worring about correct definitions of terms that really make no difference to the fun and awsome hobby/trade/artform/diversion that is blacksmithing.

My great uncle's nickname to his children was "Black Daddy" This was due to the fact that he would come home from the mines black head to toe.

PS

Wear a mask,, no one likes black booggers.

[easilyconfused]

Whether something is defined as organic or not, small particles irritate the lung and can cause damage leading to emphysema to cancer. Instead of finding a definition of the compound, spend the time looking for a mask. A small investment, even if it only saves you from coughing for a bit while working.

[Phil Patrick]

Exactly. Very well said!