Particles from Non-Exhaust Sources
Air pollution is a major concern. It is estimated that in Europe there are ~100,000 premature deaths every year due to exposure to particulate matter (EC 2004). As further evidence is uncovered linking increased atmospheric particulate concentrations to health problems, there is a greater need to reduce particulate emissions, especially with regards to PM10 and PM2.5 particles.
Although vehicle exhausts are generally assumed to be the major contributor to particulate matter generated, non-exhaust sources, such as tyre and brake wear, also contribute to particulate concentrations and resulting health issues. Model calculations suggest that non-exhaust emissions can contribute ~50-85% of the total PM10 emissions, depending on location (Ketzel et al., 2005).
Non-exhaust sources include:
- Tyre Wear
- Brake Wear
- (Re)suspension/Road Dust
- Road Surface Wear
- Clutch Wear
- Corrosion of vehicle bodywork & road furniture
- Winter Road Maintenance
Key Questions:
- What contribution do non-exhaust emissions make to PM10 and PM2.5?
- How will this contribution change in the future?
- How can we improve the incorporation of non-exhaust emissions in air quality assessment procedures?
Currently ASRG is undertaking two research projects related to non-exhaust emissions:
- Quantification of PM10 and PM2.5 contributions from the non-exhaust sources of road traffic, funded by the BOC Foundation
- Source Apportionment of Atmospheric Particles to Determine Non-Exhaust Emission Contributions, funded by NERC and researched by Samantha Martin