Final answer:
Concerns when using aluminum tableware include potential leaching of aluminum into food, incompatibility with dishwasher detergents, and susceptibility to reactions with strong bases and mercury that compromise aluminum's integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The properties of aluminum that might cause concern if one had to use Napoleon's aluminum tableware relate to its reactivity and interaction with other substances. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat, making it useful in cookware, but it can react with certain substances, such as acidic foods, leading to the leaching of aluminum into the food. This can cause not only a metallic taste but also health concerns if ingested in large amounts. Additionally, aluminum tableware should not be used with dishwasher detergent as it can cause corrosion of the aluminum. The passivation layer of aluminum does protect it from rust, but the presence of strong bases or mercury can lead to further reactions that compromise the integrity of the aluminum. Consequently, these properties may make one wary of using historical aluminum tableware for contemporary dining.