Exposure characterization and risk assessment of ultrafine particles from the blast furnace process in a steelmaking plant

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to clarify the exposure characteristics and risks of ultrafine particles from the blast furnace process and to provide a reasonable control strategy for protecting the health of workers. METHODS: The blast furnace location of a steelmaking plant was selected as a typical investigation site. A membrane‐based sampling system was used to collect ultrafine particles to analyze their morphology and elemental compositions. A real‐time system was used to monitor the total number concentration (NC), total respirable mass concentration (MC), surface area concentration (SAC), and size distribution by number. The risk level of ultrafine particles was analyzed using the Stoffenmanager‐Nano model. RESULTS: The total NC, total MC, and SAC increased significantly relative to background concentrations after slag releasing started and decreased gradually after the activity stopped. The three highest total concentrations during slag releasing were 3‐10 times higher than those of the background or non‐activity period. The ultrafine particles were mainly gathered at 10.4 or 40 nm, and presented as lump‐like agglomerates. The metal elements (Al and Pt) in the ultrafine particles originated from slag and iron ore. The risk level of the ultrafine particles was high, indicating the existing control measures were insufficient. CONCLUSIONS: The blast furnace workers are at high risk due to exposure to high levels of ultrafine particles associated with working activity and with a bimodal size distribution. The existing control strategies, including engineering control, management control, and personal protection equipment need to be improved.