Toxicology of Gallium Arsenide: An Appraisal

Abstract

The toxicity of gallium arsenide (GaAs), a compound extensively used in Defence as a superior semiconductor material, in ground-and space-based radar and in electronic warfare is not well known. Results from recent reports on experimental animals indicate that GaAs produces profound effects on the lung, liver, immune and haematopoietic systems. GaAs is found to be soluble in aqueous solution and forms unidentified gallium and arsenic species upon dissolution. Different species of arsenic which are formed following the exposure may lead to various toxic effects. This paper gives a comprehensive account of work carried out in the toxicology of GaAs.