Brake Dust: A Silent Killer on the Roads
Air pollution is a global health crisis, with around seven million premature deaths linked to exposure every year. While diesel exhaust emissions have long been recognized as a major contributor to urban air pollution, recent research from the University of Southampton sheds light on another culprit: brake dust.
Brake dust, a type of non-exhaust emission, is now the primary source of emissions from road transport in many European countries, surpassing exhaust emissions. Despite this, brake dust is not currently regulated, leading to potential health risks that are not well understood.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the University of Southampton exposed lung cells in a lab setting to both brake dust and diesel exhaust dust. The results were alarming – brake dust was found to be significantly more harmful to lung cells, with effects linked to diseases such as cancer and asthma. Interestingly, removing copper from the brake dust reduced these harmful effects, suggesting a possible avenue for mitigation.
Current vehicle regulations in the UK only focus on exhaust emissions, leaving non-exhaust emissions such as brake dust unaddressed. The research highlights the urgent need for regulations to target these harmful emissions and calls for the reformulation of brake pads to reduce their impact on public health.
While brake pads have evolved over the years, with asbestos being phased out in favor of non-asbestos organic (NAO) pads, the study found that NAO pads were the most toxic to lung cells compared to other pad types and even diesel exhaust dust. This underscores the importance of reevaluating brake pad formulations to minimize health risks.
The Role of Copper in Brake Dust
Further analysis of the brake dust revealed high copper content as a key characteristic, with AI techniques identifying copper as a major component. The study found that copper from brake dust could penetrate lung cells, leading to toxic effects. Treatment to neutralize copper in the brake dust reduced its harmful properties, highlighting the role of copper in the toxicity of brake dust.
Studies have shown that exposure to high concentrations of copper is associated with impaired lung function and increased overall risk of death. With copper being a major component of brake dust, the implications for public health are concerning.
Challenges with Electric Vehicles
While the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) promises to reduce exhaust emissions, it does not eliminate non-exhaust emissions such as brake dust. In fact, studies suggest that EVs may generate more brake dust than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, raising concerns about the health impact of these emissions.
Regenerative braking systems in some EVs help reduce friction and dust emissions, but traditional friction braking systems still contribute to brake dust. The upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards aim to limit brake dust emissions, prompting innovation in brake materials and dust-trapping mechanisms to address this issue.
New legislation in the US targeting copper content in brake pads sets a precedent for addressing the environmental and health risks associated with brake dust. As the automotive industry evolves, there is a growing need to address non-exhaust emissions and prioritize public health in vehicle design and regulation.
Conclusion
Non-exhaust emissions, particularly brake dust, pose a significant health risk to the public, with no established safe exposure level for air pollutants. As we transition to electric vehicles and focus on reducing exhaust emissions, it is crucial to address non-exhaust emissions with the same level of urgency and regulation.
By reevaluating brake pad formulations, implementing innovative solutions, and prioritizing public health in vehicle design, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier future for all.
Original Article: Car Brake Dust Can Be More Harmful Than Diesel Exhaust: New Study
Authors: James Parkin, Research Fellow, Air Pollution, University of Southampton and Matt Loxham, Professorial Fellow, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton
