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What do TRWP look like, how big are they, can I see them with the naked eye?

TRWP are tiny, elongated particles of tire tread and road pavement material.

TIP sponsored studies have placed the size of TRWP in the range of 100μm. This is very small, but large enough for the human eye to see. A human hair is approximately 100μm (0.1mm) thick.

Importantly, these studies have demonstrated that the shape, size and composition of TRWP is the specific result of the wear mechanism created at the tire pavement interface. Particles generated through lab-based mechanical abrasion / grinding of tire tread have different physical and chemical characteristics than those of TRWP.

Related Questions

  1. What are tire and road wear particles (TRWP)?
  2. What has TIP-sponsored research revealed about any potential environmental impacts of TRWP?
  3. Where can TRWP be found?
  4. Are tires the main source of ocean microplastics?
  5. Are tire emissions 1,000 times worse than exhaust emissions? 
  6. Are TRWP a threat to my health?
  7. Are there chemicals from tires in lettuce? 
  8. What is TIP’s approach to scientific research? 
  9. How does TIP ensure the validity of the research that it sponsors?
  10. What is TIP’s TRWP-research mandate, and does this mandate evolve?
  11. What is the final goal of TIP’s TRWP research?
  12. Why is TRWP a multi-stakeholder issue (and what are the implications of that)?
  13. What can tire consumers and drivers do to help limit the generation of TRWP?
  14. TIP’s scientific research helps develop understanding of TRWP, but what about action on the ground, such as mitigation?
  15. What is 6PPD-quinone?
  16. What is TIP doing about 6PPD-quinone?
  17. The example of 6PPD-quinone raises a question. What is the potential for replacement of materials and chemicals in tire manufacturing?
  18. Are TRWP a form of microplastic?
  19. Are TRWP a source of marine microplastic pollution?
  20. When and why did TIP begin supporting research into TRWP and their potential health and environmental impact?
  21. Do you provide materials to support TRWP research?
  22. How much TRWP is generated?