Transportation Pollution Research Center
- Research on the characteristics of nonexhaust gas emissions by mobile pollutants
Owing to stricter emission standards on exhaust gas, an automobile pollutant, many studies have been conducted. However, research on non-exhaust system pollutants from tires and brakes is insufficient. Accordingly, since 2020, the Transportation Pollution Research Center has been performing studies on the amount of abrasion dust generated from non-exhaust systems and its contribution to air pollution. In 2021, we are conducting a study to estimate the contribution of abrasion particles to PM in the atmosphere using specific components of tires. We are conducting another study to analyze the characteristics of abrasion dust emitted when driving on the road by developing a device that directly collects and measures abrasion particles from vehicles. Additionally, we are actively participating in international harmonization, such as by joining the UN’s World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulation (WP29) and proposing opinions on inter-laboratory studies and test methods.
- Automobile catalyst (DEF) emergency supply status and response
Owing to the Chinese urea export restrictions after September 2021, in November of the same year, South Korea had a shortage of catalysts (DEF) for diesel vehicles. The number of DEF quality inspections, which was around ten per year on average before the DEF shortage (before October 2021), substantially increased to 1,165 over four months from November 2021 to the end of February 2022. To handle the surging demand for inspections, the legal processing period was shortened significantly from 20 days to three to five days; five new inspection agencies, including the Korea Environment Corporation, have been designated to enable swift inspections. Moreover, in accordance with active administrative measures, 48 pre-inspections for internationally certified DEF (AdBlue, API) were temporarily exempted from November 10 to December 31. To stabilize the supply and demand of urea and DEF, we examined the feasibility of converting industrial urea to vehicle use and confirmed the feasibility of manufacturing use. We also supported the analysis of 34 samples requested by smuggling and illegal distribution regulators (e.g., environmental, police, and customs agencies). Additionally, in collaboration with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), we analyzed various factors such as foreign industries and shared the information.
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