Research indicates brake dust could be more harmful than diesel fumes

The research shows that a higher concentration of copper in some pads is associated with increased harmful effects on sensitive cells from people’s lungs.

BHPian sarathlal recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

A study by the University of Southampton has found microscopic particles emitted from certain types of commonly fitted brake pads can be more toxic than those found in diesel vehicle exhaust.

The research shows that a higher concentration of copper in some pads is associated with increased harmful effects on sensitive cells from people’s lungs, as a result of particles being breathed in.

The findings published can be viewed here: https://particleandfibretoxicology.b...89-024-00617-2

On a lighter note, hope someone does not read this and ban Brakes.

Here's what BHPian DicKy had to say on the matter:

Nah. Why ban when you can tax them citing the environment issue. Brake pads = sin tax.

BTW. Is this a modern vehicle thingy or does it vary from manufacturer to manufacturer or the brake pad supplier?

Can only say from the brake dust accumalated on the alloy wheels. So depends on alloy wheel design?

Not sure about modern cars, since the Cruze also had a heavy brake dust problem. Not sure it is about weight since the Harrier changes alloy wheel colour every week, while the heavier Innova Crysta doesn't have any brake dust settling on the wheels.

Here's what BHPian sagarpadaki had to say on the matter:

It depends on brake pad friction material. Organic pads dust less. Semi metallic pads dust heavy. Ceramic pads and Ceramic-Organic hybrid pads dust the least. Heavy cars usually come with Semi metallic pads that cause the alloys to go dark in a matter of few hundred kms. Neighbors XUV7OO alloys and brake calipers are baked in brake dust. Not sure if he uses original pads or aftermarket.

There are after-market pads available that will dust less. One needs to explore a bit

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.