Case Study: Examination of Dust on Vehicles

Dust consists of fine solid particles. It can contain soil, pollen, hair, fibers, minerals, and many other materials. Dust can be a health hazard to people and it can also cause damage to vehicles. Dust on vehicles could result from too much dust in the environment and can clog the air filter and reduce airflow to the engine. This can lead to overheating and damage to the vehicle. Dust on vehicles can also damage the clear coat and the paint. If a vehicle is located in a dusty area, keeping it clean can be time-consuming and expensive.

THE PROBLEMS:

We were contacted by environmental consulting companies regarding two separate issues.

CASE A: Dust appearing on cars in a residential area was blamed on a nearby foundry. We were asked to answer whether or not the dust originated from the foundry.

CASE B: A truck parked at a residential area for several months was turning black. The owner was concerned that the black discoloration was a hazardous airborne emission from a nearby power plant.

THE ANALYSES:

Samples in both cases were collected via tape lift and cloth wipe by professionals and sent to our lab for analysis.

We examined those samples using polarized light microscopy (PLM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS).

CASE A: The analyses indicated that the particles making up the dust were not metal and metal-rich particles expected in dust from a foundry. The dark spots appearing on the cars were composed primarily of fungal spores.

Dust identified as fungus by analytical testing using light and electron microscopy

CASE B:  Examination by microscopy showed the dark particulate was primarily composed of fungal material (60-70%), plant fragments (10-20%), algae (5-10%), soil minerals (1-5%) and rubber particles.

Black particulate identification analysis by light microscopy

THE OUTCOME:

In both cases, the vehicle owners were relieved to know the composition of the dust on their vehicles. Fungi and plant material are common components of dust. Some fungi reproduce by releasing spores. These spores easily move in the air currents. The wind spreads and deposits them on different surfaces, including vehicles. Regular washing should protect the surface of the vehicles.

If you have a client that is concerned about dust, please contact us at 770-662-8509 or email us at info@mvainc.com.