Yes, particulate matter (PM) from vehicles does include emissions from tire wear. When vehicles operate, the friction between tires and the road surface leads to the abrasion of rubber, which generates fine particles. These tire wear particles contribute to airborne particulate matter, specifically PM10 (particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller) and PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller).
In addition to tire wear, vehicles contribute to particulate matter emissions through several other sources, including:
- Exhaust Emissions: Combustion of fuel in internal combustion engines produces soot and other particulate matter.
- Brake Wear: The friction generated by brakes also produces fine particles.
- Road Dust Resuspension: As vehicles move, they can resuspend dust and particulate matter from road surfaces.
- Fuel Combustion Residues: The burning of fossil fuels can release various particulate matter, including heavy metals and organic compounds.
Tire and brake wear are significant sources of non-exhaust particulate emissions, and they are increasingly being recognized in discussions about urban air quality and regulations aimed at reducing air pollution. Efforts to develop cleaner vehicle technologies and alternative materials may help mitigate these emissions.