A new car is always very easy to distinguish by the smell of its interiors. This “new car smell” is emitted by the plastics, glue and carpeting used in the car interior. Studies have shown that these components, when new, are in unstable conditions and will release gases. Some of these gases are known to be unhealthy when we are exposed to them for prolonged periods. These gases include benzene and formaldehyde.
These components are known carcinogens that can possibly cause cancer. These harmful gases pose as even more dangerous threats in hot conditions. If you think about it, we are regularly exposed to such hazards when we park our cars in unsheltered parking areas for long periods of time. When we enter a hot car, we are exposing ourselves to their dangers.
Some helpful ways to prevent being exposed to these substances include winding down the car windows or leaving the car doors opened to let the hot gases out before entering the car. You can also leave the windows down while driving to help clear out the gases. Cleaning solutions for car interiors should also be avoided so that it doesn’t exacerbate the problem.
So the next time you get a ride in a new car, be warned that you are exposed to these poisonous gases. You will now think twice about enjoying the smell of a new car, won’t you?
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This plastic compound is known as plasticizer used to soften the polymer material. when exposed to sun, it will vaporise and the gas is poisoneous.
i didnt know the new smell is hazardous… but the smell is invigorating!
Thanks for sharing the information, Chemist.
Xin, now you know better than to keep inhaling it to invigorate yourself!
Very interesting article, i bookmarked your blog
Best regards