Development of a mathematical model for predicting concentrations of small asbestos fibers.

The standard method of asbestos sample analysis by phase-contrast microscopy excludes fibers which are below the resolution limits of the light microscope. Electron microscopic studies revealed that fibers in these small size ranges comprise the majority of fibers in asbestos dust. This research was conducted to determine if the development of a mathematical model for predicting concentrations of small fibers (less than 5 microns length) based on phase-contrast concentrations was feasible. The model presented in this paper was evaluated for its practical utility and was determined to be of minimal value; however, it was felt that the development of a reasonably accurate model can be arrived at through continued research.