Durability Of Man-Made Vitreous Fibres In The Lung

The ability of a respired fibre to endure within the lung and cause biological activity that leads to respiratory disease is a function of the fibre's physical and chemical durability. Simulated experiments of reactions of fibres with model extracellular and intracellular fluids have helped the biomedical community to understand the potential behaviour of different fibres in the body and have guided research in the development of fibrous materials with greater breakdown potential in the body. Since simulations are remote from the body, projections as to the behaviour of fibres in humans or laboratory animals must be guarded.