Abstract

Of 30 workmen at risk 27 were examined and six found to have evidence of pulmonary fibrosis. In the two fatal cases the evidence for pulmonary fibrosis was conclusive and in three other cases it was sufficient; in one case it was suggestive. The clinical, radiological, and pathological features of these six cases are recorded. Results of respiratory function tests on the four non-fatal cases are given. The manufacturing process is described. An analysis of the powder is given, also the results of dust measurement in the contaminated atmosphere. The literature is reviewed and our own experience compared with reports from Germany and Canada. We concluded that the pulmonary fibrosis was caused by the dust inhaled at work and that the component responsible was finely divided aluminium.