Air pollution from cars is not limited to the exhaust emissions. Recent research reveals that brake particles generate concerning toxicity, primarily due to the high copper content of brake pads. This phenomenon, which is exacerbated by the increasing weight of electric vehicles, poses a serious threat to lung health and fuels concerns about rising respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The key information
- Brake particles are more toxic than exhaust emissions.
- A study shows that certain brake pads cause more inflammation than exhaust fumes.
- Organic brake pads without asbestos are the most harmful and exacerbate health issues.
- A reduction of copper in brake pads could alleviate the pathological effects.
Brake particles: a silent threat
In a context where air pollution is central to environmental concerns, recent research reveals that the particles generated by car brakes may be more harmful than exhaust emissions. This discovery challenges our understanding of the sources of automotive pollution and sheds light on a frequently overlooked aspect.
An alarming toxicity
Research from the University of Southampton exposes the high copper content of brake pads as a key factor of their toxicity. While the focus mainly lies on engine emissions, the particles arising from braking, known as fine particles (PM2.5), also pose a significant health risk, particularly to the lungs.
The effects of brake pads
The study analyzed four types of brake pads: lightweight, semi-metallic, organic without asbestos, and hybrid-ceramic. Among these categories, organic brake pads without asbestos were found to be the most harmful, causing greater inflammation than the exhaust fumes themselves. This finding raises crucial questions about the safety of the materials used in the production of these automotive components.
Health implications
The implications of this research are immediate and alarming. Increased exposure to harmful particles from brakes could lead to a rise in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The consequences for public health are concerning and demand urgent attention from health policy.
Copper reduction: a potential solution
Experts suggest that a reduction of copper in brake pads could alleviate some of these pathological effects. This raises an urgent need for new manufacturing requirements that take into account not only the performance of brakes but also their impact on health and the environment.
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Electric vehicles: a double-edged sword
Paradoxically, the transition to electric vehicles could worsen the situation. The additional weight of these vehicles generates more friction, increasing the production of harmful particles. Therefore, it becomes crucial to develop solutions that minimize this risk while promoting sustainable transport alternatives.
Urgent need for regulation
Faced with these challenges, it is essential to implement strict regulations regarding emissions, not only of exhaust gases but also of the particles that arise from braking. Protecting public health must be a priority, as a large portion of the population is exposed to the consequences of this silent pollution, which is often overlooked in traditional environmental discussions.
