Siderite
Classification:
Siderite is an important iron ore and related to calcite; compare to calcite.
Synonyms/Trade Names:
Flins, Flinz, Gyrit, Sphäro-Sidertit, Strahlstein.
Chemistry/Composition:
Fe(CO3) . It can be contaminated with Mg, Mn, Zn, or Cd.
Structure:
Iron and carbonate ions alternate in sheets. Each calcium ion is placed in an octahedral configuration by six carbonate groups, and each carbonate group in an octahedral configuration by six calcium ions.
Crystallographic Constants:
4.494 5.796 15.386 47.717 47.717 47.717.
Crystal Group:
Trigonal.
Color:
Yellow, brown, or black.
Optical Properties:
nO=1.851-1.875 nE=1.612-1.633.
Pleochroism:
colorless to brownish.
Powder Diagram:
2.80 1.73 1.74 3.59 (29-696).
Natural Sources:
World-wide.
Medical Importance:
Key Hazards:
Possibly fibrogenic.
Involved Organs:
Probably lung.
Exposure/Epidemiology:
It is used as iron-ore.
Thresholds:
In Germany, MAK 6 mg/m3.
Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Detailed data are not known.
Lung Diseases:
Iron may create a benign pneumoconiosis; for further informations see under the heading haematite.
Clinical Presentation:
Associated specific symptoms are not known.
Radiology:
Associated specific findings are not known.
Lung Function:
Usually normal findings.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage:
Usually normal findings.
Pathology:
Gross:
The lungs are of normal color and consistency.
Histology:
The alveoli can contain an increased number of macrophages, and collections of brown dust particles may be seen in the lymphatic tissue.
Prognosis:
Usually good and without serious sequelae.
Additional Diseases:
None.
References:
search Pubmed for Siderite
Costa D, Guignard J, Zalma R, Perezat H: Production of free radicals arising from surface activity of minerals and oxygen. Part one: iron mine ores. Toxicol Ind Health 6 (1989) 1061-1078
Kayser K: Analytical Lung Pathology. Springer, Heidelberg, New York (1992)