Is industrial silicon toxic?

The biggest harm of silicon to human body is silicosis. It is caused by long-term high-dose inhalation of silicon dioxide (Si02) dust. Silica dust enters the respiratory tract and is swallowed by lung macrophages, releasing active factors and stimulating fibroblasts to synthesize more collagen. Silica dust can also stimulate macrophages to release lysosomal enzymes, destroy protein coated on the surface of silica, and expose damaged cell membranes. It can also start lipid peroxidation, produce free radicals, damage and even kill macrophages. Dead cells can stimulate adjacent fibroblasts to synthesize collagen. Silica dust is released again and swallowed by other macrophages, producing more collagen fibers. As time goes on, silicosis is caused by the progress of the disease. Miners, tunnel workers in various metal mines, masons, glassware workers, timely grinders and sand cleaners in the refractory industry are more likely to come into contact with silicon dust and suffer from silicosis. Due to the vigorous development of dust prevention, the incidence of silicosis has obviously decreased, but it has not been completely controlled, and it is still one of the most important occupational diseases in China.