It may sound like scaremongering of the highest order, but that much sought after ‘new car smell’ could increase drivers’ risk of cancer – a risk that grows with higher temperatures.
A study by Chinese and US researchers has shown the levels of three carcinogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the interior of a new car, known as off-gassing, far exceed recommended levels, contributing to incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and ‘indicating a high health risk to drivers’.
The team observed the levels of 20 common VOCs in a new mid-sized hybrid SUV parked outside for 12 days during sunny, cloudy and rainy weather.
Previous studies measuring VOCs have focused on the atmospheric temperature of vehicles, which can fluctuate dramatically.
The latest study focused on surface temperatures within the vehicle, recording VOC emissions from five common in-cabin materials at 25C, 40C and 65C. The areas of focus were the dashboard, car seats, carpet, roof interior and door panel, with materials including plastic, imitation leather and woven cloth or felt.
Formaldehyde and benzene, class I carcinogens (known to cause cancer) and acetaldehyde, a group II carcinogen (probable cause of cancer) were all found to exceed safe levels for drivers, with formaldehyde and acetaldehyde also presenting a risk to passengers. Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde exceeded recommended Chinese national standard limits by 35% and 61% respectively.
The team also found that VOC emissions increase with higher surface temperatures.
What are the three highest-risk VOCs?
Formaldehyde has many uses, primarily in the production of other chemicals and resins. It is also found in adhesives, disinfectants and some cosmetics such as nail hardening products
Benzene is used as a starting material in the production of a wide range of chemicals required by industrial manufacturing processes. End products include plastics, foams, dyes, detergents, solvents and insecticides. It is also found in cigarette smoke.
Acetaldehyde is used in water treatment products and also found in paints, adhesives and air fresheners
Source: Gov.uk/European Chemicals Agency
The highest risk was through inhalation, with dermal intake (through the skin) and ingestion deemed relatively small.
Writing in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science, the team concluded: ‘We estimated the ILCR for drivers and passengers exposed to formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and benzene through the three exposure routes (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal uptake), and found that there is a high health risk for drivers.
‘This study provides a promising method that vehicle designers can use to select appropriate materials to achieve effective source control and pre-assess in-cabin air quality.’
The team also noted that, on opening a window, formaldehyde concentrations decreased, suggesting leaving a window open can rapidly reduce VOC concentrations.
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