Dangerous Materials Found in Automobiles
Friday, December 16th, 2011
For some cars owners, there is no greater thrill than taking in that “new car smell” after making a big, important purchase. What they may not know is that prominent smell consists of plastics and various chemicals that can release volatile organic compounds, asbestos, and PVC substances in the car that can damage their internal organs and systems.
A common plastic found in a variety of car parts from the seats to the glove compartment may contain polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Many landfills do not like dealing with PVC but carmakers do not hesitate to use it in the manufacturing methods. PVC will negatively affect the liver and kidneys, so individuals with sensitive health should avoid it. Many materials used to make cars are toxic but many drivers worsen the situation by not knowing about them or by bringing more toxins into the car. Many air fresheners and cleaners are made with hazardous chemicals or VOCs that can create a range of health problems.
Flame-retardants are commonly made in materials that fit the car interior in order to secure the driver. However, the flame-retardants are not safe because they contain high amounts of bromine and antimony. Bromine is a hazardous, corrosive chemical that must be transported in tanks lined with lead. In addition to undermining the thyroid, bromine can create neurological problems like loss of concentration, decrease in memory, and mood swings. Antimony is a hazardous chemical that can cause nausea, migraines, skin disorders, and organ damage after long-term exposure to certain doses.
Of course, the hazardous materials used to manufacture cars are not restricted to the interiors. Many cars, particularly older models, have clutches and brake pads that carry asbestos. Car manufacturers formerly used asbestos because it was cheap and resisted high temperatures. Now people know that asbestos fibers can be breathed in easily and inhalation has caused mesothelioma, which is an advanced type of cancer. Some mechanics do not handle clutches and brakes that have asbestos.
As a matter of fact, modern cars come with all kinds of dangerous chemicals and materials that are not just found underneath the hood. The only way to dodge the toxic concoction that comes with a new car is to avoid buying a new car completely. While driving a car every day, drivers may inhale a wide range of toxic substances that have been proven to cause serious, life-threatening medical problems.
Car owners who want to achieve optimal health must look at the labels and warnings before they use any car product or pay for any chemical treatment. Some older cars contain unexpected hazards like lead and asbestos that increase the risks of disease. Even so, some cars are made with natural fibers and receive little chemical treatments. Whatever the case may be, drivers should know about car toxins in case they get sick after being exposed to the car or decide to repair it themselves.
Article by guest author Brian Turner
http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/brian/
