Cobalt & compounds: Sources of emissions
Industry sources
Cobalt is mainly emitted from sources where it is used in the production of steel and other alloys. It may be emitted to air, land or water from these sources. Automotive repair shops may be significant emitters (to air) of cobalt. It will also be emitted to air, land and water during the mining or refining of nickel, copper, silver, lead and iron.
Diffuse sources, and industry sources included in diffuse emissions data
Cobalt may be emitted to air, land or water from the manufacture, use or disposal of paints and varnishes. It may also be emitted to air, land or water from the manufacture, use or disposal of ceramic, inks, and enamels.
Natural sources
Cobalt is found in soil, dust, seawater, volcanic emissions, and smoke from forest and bush fires.
Transport sources
Small amounts of cobalt have been found in motor vehicle exhaust.
Consumer products
Consumer products containing cobalt and its compounds include: vitamin B-12, animal feeds and fertilisers, paints, varnish, enamels and ceramics. It is in metals used at high temperatures (e.g. some car parts).
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