A recent study has found that cars in the United States may contain possible carcinogens in the form of flame retardants. These flame retardants are commonly used in various areas of vehicle cabins based on safety standards, particularly within seat foams and coverings. Previous studies have linked exposure to these flame retardants with health concerns such as neurological issues, hormone disruption, and cancer-related death.
Researchers from Duke University and the Green Science Policy Institute conducted a study on cars with a model year of 2015 or newer and found that the air inside their cabins is polluted with flame retardants. The study also revealed that air flame retardant levels were significantly higher in vehicle cabins during the summer compared to winter. Organophosphate esters (OPEs) were the most frequently detected flame retardants in the air samples collected by silicone passive samplers, with tris(1-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP) being the dominant fire retardant found in car seat foam.
The researchers emphasized that chemicals emitted from plastics are released at higher rates in warmer temperatures, leading to higher concentrations of flame retardants in vehicle cabin air during the summer months. This can result in increased exposure to these chemicals for individuals who spend time in these vehicles. The presence of TCIPP in foam was found to result in higher air sampler concentrations in both winter and summer, further highlighting the potential risk of exposure within vehicle cabins.
To reduce potential exposure to flame retardants in vehicle cabins, researchers recommend ventilating cars, particularly during hot summer months, and parking in shaded areas to minimize interior temperatures. Opening windows and ventilating before entering the car, as well as avoiding the recirculating air feature, can also help reduce exposure. The study underscores the importance of raising awareness about potential environmental exposures to harmful compounds in everyday settings and the need for research into alternative materials that do not contain potentially harmful chemicals.
This study highlights the need for further research and modernization of regulations regarding material requirements in vehicles to minimize the presence of potentially harmful compounds. The findings raise concerns about the health risks associated with exposure to flame retardants in vehicle cabins and emphasize the importance of taking precautions to reduce exposure. By addressing fire safety with different technologies and approaches, such as using non-flammable materials and redesigning flame retardants, the potential risks associated with these chemicals in vehicles can be mitigated.
