Project description:Gifu Prefecture and Gifu University are developing technologies for recycling used carbon fiber because the waste disposal process is highly cost and energy intensive. However, generation of carbon fiber dust during the recycling process is a serious issue, especially in the occupational environment. Recycling requires carbonization by partial firing treatment at 500℃ followed by firing treatment at 440℃: these processes produce dust as a by-product. In this study, three types of carbon fibers; before recycling, after carbonization, and after firing were evaluated for their toxic effects on mice. It is important to study the influence of carbon fibers on human health at a gene expression level.
Project description:Gifu Prefecture and Gifu University are developing technologies for recycling used carbon fiber because the waste disposal process is highly cost and energy intensive. However, generation of carbon fiber dust during the recycling process is a serious issue, especially in the occupational environment. Recycling requires carbonization by partial firing treatment at 500℃ followed by firing treatment at 440℃: these processes produce dust as a by-product. In this study, three types of carbon fibers; before recycling, after carbonization, and after firing were evaluated for their toxic effects on mice. It is important to study the influence of carbon fibers on human health at a gene expression level.