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 cobalt in humans. Cobalt is not currently mined in the United States although imported cobalt-containing nickel laterite concentrates are processed in Louisiana. Superailoys (alloys based on iron, nickel, or cobalt that maintain their strength at high temperatures) used in jet engines, magnet alloys, and the salts and paint driers are the major cobalt consumption categories. Cobalt compounds have important roles as ground coat frits, decolorizers, and pigments. It is also used commercially as catalysts in the oxo synthesis (hydroformylation of olefins), petroleum refining, and oxidation of organic compounds. The effects of cobalt in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity.
