Beyond the tailpipe: Review of non-exhaust airborne nanoparticles from road vehicles

Abstract

With the electrification of road vehicles leading to a reduction in tailpipe emissions, the relative contribution of non-exhaust emissions (NEEs) has become increasingly prominent. NEEs, particularly nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm in aerodynamic diameter (PM_0.1), present significant health and environmental risks. A comprehensive understanding and strategic management of these emissions are urgently required to mitigate their impact. This article reviews existing studies and reveals that nanoparticles in NEEs are generated from brake and tyre wear under critical temperature conditions, while road wear and resuspension do not directly produce nanoparticles but contribute to larger particles. Common methodologies in studying these emissions include laboratory experiments (with brake dynamometers, tyre dynamometers, chassis dynamometers, and simulators), field tests (tunnel and real road emission tests), and source apportionments. The emission rate of PM_0.1, calculated based on particle number concentration, ranges from 1.2% to 98.9%, depending on driving conditions. Extreme driving conditions result in high nanoparticle generation. Emission inventories reveal that PM_0.1 emission levels have remained stable since 2020, without an observable reduction. Moreover, emissions attributable to brake wear are found to surpass those from tyre wear. Current mitigation strategies focus on material improvements for brake pads and tyres, better road maintenance, and regulatory measures. Mitigating the environmental and health impacts of nanoscale particulate matter requires additional research and regulations to control it at the source.