Lili Krakowski on sat 24 jun 06
Recently I was in correspondence with a potter, when the question of lithium
as a dangerous ingredient came up.
I suggested she write to Monona Rossol, and she got this reply, which I have
Monona's ok to pass on.
"The therapeutic dose of lithium is very close to the toxic dose. So you
don't want to add any amount from other sources.
Whether or not you can mix, apply, and use lithium glazed ware without being
expose to lithium depends on many factors. Just a FEW of them include:
1. Where is your studio? If you are working in a home studio you will
contaminate living spaces with small amounts of lithium.
2. How good is your hygiene? Do you wear the same clothes home from the
studio, eat or drink in the studio, etc.?
3. Have you been professionally fit tested for the mask? If not, you may
not be protected when you wear it.
4. How clean is your studio? Could I see dust anywhere?
5. Do you use the glazed ware for food?
In general, it is better not to use a chemical which is a special risk such
as this one. "
I asked permission to pass this on, because I have pleaded so often that
lithium be discarded from communal glaze pantries, schools and the like.
And yet, and still, I see recipes being published that include it.
I am perfectly aware that frequently 1% or 2% is all that is called for.
But that still means that the material is handled, that a container that may
hold 5 lb is opened, that some may get spilled on the counter etc. For
pity's sake--anyone who has baked knows (from the cleanup) how easily a fine
powder gets dispersed....And not every one every place HAS a decent mask, a
chance to shower, shampoo and change clothes as soon as the weighting and
mixing is over, and in school/community center situations I just do not see
that lithium can be handled safely.
And please re-read #5.
Lili Krakowski
Be of good courage
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