Objective The main objectives of this research using mainly laser microprobes of synthetic and real dust are:(i) to characterize iron oxide-based dust, in the presence or otherwise of PAH(ii) to monitor the fate of iron oxide particles in the light of their initial composition(iii) to study the transformation of PAH sorbed chemically or physically on iron oxide particles(iv) to supply samples to the ECSC medical researchers mentioned above for toxicology tests.The uncertainty regarding the real toxicity of iron oxides in the presence or otherwise of PAH is disadvantageous to the steel industry. Priority must be given to obtaining a better understanding of the physico-chemical and toxicological characteristics of iron oxide dusts in order to determine the actual risk to workers in the iron and steel plants concerned (sintering, blast furnace, converter and electric steel plant, hot-rolling mill, oxycutting, etc). More detailed knowledge would enable the steel industry to implement, if necessary, an effective prevention policy.The research takes account of the physico-chemical aspects of characterization and synergy of complex iron ore/PAH dust. Programme(s) ECSC-WORKSAFE C - First joint research programme (ECSC) "Safety in the European Coal and Steel Community industries", 1989-1993 Topic(s) 3 - Specific safety requirements of the steel industry Call for proposal Data not available Funding Scheme Data not available Coordinator USINOR SACILOR EU contribution No data Address 29 rue de l'Usine 57120 ROMBAS France See on map Total cost No data