초록
This study was conducted to examine whether a specific synthetic metalworking fluid (MWF), "A", in use for 10 months without replacement, displayed microbial resistance and to identify the additives associated with the control of microbial growth. Three synthetic MWF products ("A", "B", and "C") were studied every week for two months. Microbial deterioration of the fluids was assessed through evaluation by endotoxin, bacteria and fungi levels in the MWFs. In addition, formaldehyde, boron, ethanolamine, and copper levels were also studied to determine whether they influence microbial growth in water-based MWFs. Throughout the entire study in the sump where MWF "A" was used, bacteria counts were lower than 103 CFU/mL, and endotoxins never exceeded 103 EU/mL. These levels were significantly lower than levels observed in sumps badly deteriorated with microbes. Boron levels in MWF "A" ranged from 91.7 to 129.6 ppm, which was significantly higher than boron levels found in other MWF products. The total level of ethanolamine (EA) in MWF "A" ranged from 35,595 to 57,857 ppm (average 40,903 ppm), which was over ten times higher than that found in other MWFs. Monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA) concentrations in MWF "A" were also significantly higher than seen in other MWFs. However, although EA and boron might improve anti-microbial performance, their abuse can pose a serious risk to workers who handle MWFs. From an industrial hygiene perspective, our study results stress that the positive synergistic effect of boron and EA in reducing microbial activity in MWF must be balanced with the potentially negative health effects of such additives. Our study also addresses the disadvantage of failing to comprehensively report MWF additives on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Future research in MWF formulation is needed to find the best level of EA and boron for achieving optimal synergistic anti-microbial effects while minimizing employee health hazards.