How tire rubble pollution can impact human health

Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic particles of less than 5 millimeters in length that are generated from primary sources (manufactured at this size) or secondary sources (when large synthetic polymer products degrade into smaller pieces or are intentionally fragmented through mechanical or chemical recycling processes). Release of MPs into the environment is a concern for health as humans can be exposed to these particles through various routes including inhalation, ingestion, or dermal exposure. The risk of toxicity due to MP exposure can be attributed to the physical characteristics of the inhaled particles that are inhaled, the ability for of these small particles to release potentially hazardous polymer- associated chemicals (PACs), and the toxicological responses within the lungs. In this study, we utilized non-targeted analysis to examine the release of PACs from tire rubble. We also studied the effects of MPs leachate in human lung cells via cell proliferation, viability, ROS, and inflammatory gene expression.