The tyre maker says stronger research and reliable measurement methods are needed to better understand the environmental and health implications of tyre and road-wear particles.
Michelin has called for greater transparency and scientific rigor in research into tyre- and road-wear particles as concerns over non-exhaust vehicle emissions receive increased attention. The company described tyre-wear particles as one of the industry’s key environmental challenges and said the subject remains an important focus of its research and development activities.
Tyre-wear particles are generated through friction between tyres and road surfaces. Michelin noted that the particles contain materials originating from both tyres and the road, making it important to understand how they move through the environment and what effects they may have on ecosystems and human health.
The company said scientific knowledge in this area is continuing to develop, but some questions still require further investigation using robust methodologies and reliable, reproducible results. Michelin has previously developed analytical technologies designed to capture, classify and measure small particles generated through tyre and road wear.
Michelin reported that it reduced global emissions of wear particles from its tyres by around 100,000 tonnes between 2015 and 2020, and it is targeting a further 10% reduction by 2030. The company also cited a 2025 ADAC study, which found that the Michelin tyres tested emitted an average of 27% fewer wear particles than the competing tyres included in the comparison.
The company has also reiterated its support for the European Union’s Euro 7 requirements, which introduce limits and measurement requirements for tyre-wear emissions. Michelin said it supports applying the requirements to passenger vehicles and has called for their extension to commercial vehicles and heavy-duty trucks.
Research into tyre-wear particles is gaining wider scientific attention. A study published in Nature Communications in September 2026 assessed tyre and road-wear particles across China’s road network and estimated that the network generated 425 kilotonnes of tyre-and-road-wear-particle-derived PM2.5 in 2023. The researchers also identified significant differences in exposure across regions and highlighted the need for measures addressing non-exhaust traffic emissions.
Michelin is continuing research with France’s CNRS and Université Clermont Auvergne through a joint laboratory focused on understanding how tyre-wear particles deteriorate in the environment and exploring approaches that could eventually support their biodegradation. The company said this research is intended to improve understanding of particle behaviour and contribute to potential technical solutions.
The company also addressed the use of 6PPD, an anti-degradation chemical widely used in tyres. Michelin said it is taking research into 6PPD and its derivatives seriously, while noting that it has not yet identified an alternative capable of providing the same combination of safety and performance.
The growing focus on tyre-wear emissions is placing greater emphasis on measurement standards, scientific evidence and material innovation across the global tyre industry. Michelin’s latest position highlights the industry’s efforts to better quantify tyre and road-wear particles while continuing research into ways of reducing their environmental impact.