Antimony

Never heard of antimony?
Don't worry, before I started this research, neither had I. Antimony is a metalloid, an element that has physical properties of a metal but reacts like non-metal, that is currently being used as a semi-conductor in diodes, infrared sensors, and as an alloy with lead to make it stronger.

How does antimony get into my body?
- Inhalation
- Ingestion
- Skin Contact

What are the symptoms of exposure?
- Eye, skin, and lung irritation
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting

Results of Poisoning:
- Heart Problems
- Lung problems (pneumoconiosis)
- Stomach ulcers
- Death (With heavy exposure over several days)

How much is poisonous?
- > 9 ppm through inhalation
- > 19 ppm through ingestion

What is antimony used for?
- Used for flame proofing
- Batteries
- Paints
- Ceramics
- Rubber
- Matches
- Plumbing

How can I get tested for antimony exposure?
- Can be tested for several days after exposure/cannot tell how much antimony body das been exposed to.
- Blood
- Urine
- Feces

For more information, check out these sources:
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
- Wikipedia
- Encyclopedia Britannica