A Study on the Skin Adhesion Test of Fine Particles by Brake Pad Friction

Abstract

Though fine dust on the side of the road has decreased substantially due to environmental regulations, the adverse effects on the human due to air pollution still cannot be ignored. In this study, we aim to determine the effect of the vehicle’s brake usage on air pollution and the human skin according to the brake pad conditions. A friction experiment device simulating the mechanical friction of a vehicle brake pad was designed to conduct a fine particle generation experiment. Different loads and rpms were set under the friction and the fine particles generated through this were analyzed using an ELPI+ (Electrical Low Pressure Impactor) apparatus. At the same time as the friction experiment was conducted, a human skin sample was installed around it, and after the experiment, the deposited fine dust was observed under a microscope for each certain area. The experiment found that there was a change in micrometer-sized microparticles affecting PM (Particulate Matter) depending on the brake pad conditions. In addition, a result graph of the adhesion of fine particles according to skin surface conditions and brake pad conditions was derived. A discussion was performed on how the fine particles affect the human skin through the characteristics of the fine particles according to the friction conditions.