Germanium

Environmental and Health Effects

Health Effects

Germanium is not a necessary element for the human body, however the higher amount of Germanium, the better the metabolism may be. This allows a person to be healthier because they are burning more fat with a higher metabolism, allowing them to stay a healthy weight. (Germanium) So although Germanium is not necessary, it appears in EVERY human body, helping with the metabolism.

Some studies have also shown that Germanium may help boost the productivity of the immune system. (Germanium) This allows a person to be less susceptible to common illnesses, and even more harmful diseases. Again while this is not necessary to the functioning of the human body, it is useful in helping a person remain healthy.

Germanium Hydride and Germanium Tetrahydride are both very flammable compounds, that may even explode when coming into contact with oxygen. If this compound is inhaled, the inhaler will experience discomfort or even burning in the abdominal area. It may also cause redness in the eyes and skin. Long term exposure to this chemical can result in death. This chemical is heavier than air, so it may travel freely close to the ground. (Germanium-Ge)

Germanium is thought to have a "blood-thinning effect", which may be caused by the increase of phosphorus in the blood stream. (Roth)

Environmental Effects

Because Germanium is considered to be a "heavy metal", it may cause problems in water-based areas, by contaminating the water.

Hazardous chemicals such as Germanium Hydride and Germanium Tetrahydride may be the cause of explosions that send dangerous chemicals out into the environment, and may eventually have deadly effects.