Silicon Carbide Can Cause Cancer in Workers If Made With Traditional Process, IARC Finds

Silicon carbide made through a traditional production process can cause cancer in workers, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded in a Lancet Oncology report published Oct. 30.

Occupational exposures to silicon carbide (CAS No. 409-21-2 ), which is used to make grinding wheels, cutting tools, refractory linings and other products, can cause lung cancer when the chemical is made in an electric furnace using a method called the Acheson process, IARC said in a paper that summarizes the conclusions a panel made during an October meeting.

The panel also concluded that silicon carbide “whiskers”—long fibers that are ...