ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a detailed discussion on the occurrence and production, uses, chemical and physical properties, exposure and exposure limits, toxicokinetics, and effects of gallium in humans. Gallium occurs naturally at the rate of 15 g/ton of the earth's crust. It is present in aluminum ores at levels of 0.005 to 0.01". In small amount, it is found in the minerals sphalerite and germanite. It is also present in tin, iron, manganese, and chromium ores. It is produced as a by-product of zinc and aluminum production. Gallium arsenide and phosphide are used in light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the arsenide is used in microwave devices. Fluorescent lamps and superconductors are other uses for gallium compounds and intermetallics. The effects of gallium in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity.
