ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The use of metalworking fluids (MWFs) started in the early 1900s with the purpose of extending the life of metalworking tools and equipments (1). In a recent study, the total worldwide utilization of MWFs including straight oils and water-based products is approximately 2,055,000 metric tons and European Union consumption of water-based fluids is approximately 178,000 metric tons (2). MWFs represent a business of approximately $800 million in the United States alone (3). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates that approximately 1.2 million U.S. workers are exposed to MWFs (1).
