Factors that influence the likelihood of development of silicosis include Duration and intensity of exposure Form of silicon (exposure to the crystalline form poses greater risk than the bound form) Surface characteristics (exposure to the uncoated form poses greater risk than the coated form) Rapidity of inhalation after the dust is fractured and becomes airborne (exposure immediately after fracturing poses greater risk than delayed exposure) Pathophysiology of Silicosis Alveolar macrophages engulf inhaled free silica particles and enter lymphatics and interstitial tissue.