Tyre and road wear particle emissions in focus
Nynas taking part in research on particle emissions generated at the tyre-road interface
NYNAS are participating in a research initiative co-ordinated by the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), alongside Volvo Cars, Karolinska Institute, and Scania, with the aim of better understanding the formation, characteristics, and environmental impact of wear particles generated at the tyre-road interface.
As the transition to electric vehicles accelerates, particle emissions from internal combustion engines are beginning to decline. In their place, non-exhaust emissions – particularly tyre and road wear particles (TRWPs) – are attracting more attention.
Formed through the frictional interaction between vehicle tyres and road surfaces, these microscopic particles are now being addressed in the upcoming Euro 7 emissions standard. While TRWPs are not yet fully regulated, key players in the automotive and infrastructure sectors are mobilizing to get ahead of the curve – Nynas among them.
Despite the importance of TRWPs in the overall emissions picture, scientific knowledge has remained limited – particularly regarding how different materials contribute to wear mechanisms. With deep expertise in both tyre rubber compounds and bitumen-based road materials, Nynas offer a unique dual perspective.
‘While Sweden lacks domestic tyre manufacturers, Nynas’ research capabilities fill that gap by providing foundational insight into the chemistry and physics behind TRWP generation. Nynas’ rubber and asphalt labs are at the heart of this contribution,’ said Pär Nyman, Nynas’ technical manager for the tyre and chemical industries.
He represents Nynas in the project alongside the company’s chief scientist, Dr Xiaohu Lu, who brings extensive expertise in bitumen and asphalt to the collaboration.
‘One of the core insights driving this initiative is that wear particles cannot be fully understood by analysing tyres or roads in isolation,’ added Mr Nyman. ‘It's the interaction – the system – that matters. By studying both tyre composition and road structure, the project aims to develop a holistic view of TRWP formation, dispersion, and toxicity.’
In parallel with the particle emission studies, the project will also include rolling resistance measurements of the different tyre and bitumen combinations – a parameter directly linked to greenhouse gas emissions.
With stakeholders such as Volvo, Scania, KTH, Karolinska Institute, and Nynas on board, the project is poised to set new benchmarks in TRWP research. It also demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration across academia, industry, and material science can drive innovation in sustainability.
‘At Nynas, we are excited to contribute our unique knowledge of materials to help solve an important challenge for both the environment and human health. Through collaboration and scientific inquiry, we aim to pave the way for cleaner roads and cleaner air – one particle at a time,’ concluded Mr Nyman.
