The zeolites, sometimes referred to as molecular sieves, are a large group of natural and synthetic materials. Their composition may consist of an aluminosilicate framework containing alkali or alkaline earth cations. Zeolites exhibit fibrous, cuboidal, or other crystalline morphologies. Often considered nuisance dusts, these materials may evoke pulmonary changes leading to irritation of the respiratory tract. Pulmonary inflammatory responses, particularly those caused by natural occurring zeolites, can lead to fibrosis and even mesotheliomas. Synthetic zeolite structures, usually cuboidal, produce irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes, but there is no evidence of significant pathologic changes in the lungs. Few nonpulmonary toxicologic changes are produced by either the natural or synthetic zeolites.
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