Guest guest Posted June 28, 2002 Report Share Posted June 28, 2002 http://www.manganism-help-center.com/manganese_facts.htm -- " I've learned, that it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular. " Anon. What is Manganese? Manganese is a nutrient. Manganese is also a normal component of both plants and animals, so it is present in food. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) estimates that the typical human intake of manganese from food is 3.8 mg/day. The amount of manganese in a normal diet is enough to meet daily needs with no ill effects; in fact, eating a small amount of manganese daily is important to maintain your health. Manganese is a metal. Manganese is naturally found in many types of rock. Rocks containing high levels of manganese compounds are mined and then used to produce manganese metal. The metal is used in the production of steel to improve hardness, stiffness, and strength. Manganese is commonly used in production of batteries, matches, and fireworks. It is also is used in glazes, varnishes, ceramics, and fertilizers and fungicides. A compound of manganese is used as an additive in gasoline in some countries, but is currently banned for that purpose in the United States. Manganese is also added to animal and poultry feed. Manganese can be toxic in large amounts. The EPA considers manganese to be a "high concern" pollutant based on severe chronic toxicity. Exposure to higher levels of manganese is most likely if you work in a factory where manganese metal is produced, or where manganese compounds are used to make steel or other products. You would be exposed to manganese mainly by breathing in manganese dust. If you live near such a factory, you could also be exposed to higher-than-average levels of manganese dust in the air. If manganese compounds from a factory or a hazardous waste site get into your water, you could also be exposed. Manganese miners or steel workers exposed to high levels of manganese dust in air may develop manganism. They may have mental and emotional disturbances, and their movements may become slow. The symptoms of manganism are similar to Parkinson's disease symptoms. Medical treatment may reduce some of the symptoms of manganism, but the brain injury caused by overexposure to manganese is permanent. Designed and Maintained by: MetaCrown.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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