National Clean Diesel Campaign Emissions from Platinum Based Fuel Additives The National Clean Diesel Campaign strives to provide reliable information to users of retrofit technologies and the public about the emissions reductions that can be expected from specific diesel retrofit technologies. EPA has received questions about the possible health effects of exposure to platinum and cerium from diesel retrofit technologies that use platinum/cerium- based fuel additives. In response, EPA is carefully studying the issue to evaluate potential risks. The use of a platinum/cerium-based fuel additive produces emissions of platinum and cerium in the exhaust. EPA is currently reviewing health information regarding exposure to cerium compounds and specific chemical forms of platinum. Some chemical forms of platinum emissions may pose greater health concerns than others. Occupational health studies have linked exposure to soluble forms of platinum (particularly the halogenated platinum salts) with allergic sensitization and respiratory effects including allergic asthma if the exposure continues. Actual emissions of platinum and cerium depend on several factors, including the rate at which the additive is used and the circumstances under which vehicles using the additive are operating (e.g., if the vehicle's engine is starting and cold, idling, or operating under heavy load). EPA is evaluating available emissions data and health effects studies in an effort to assess potential health risks associated with platinum- or cerium-based fuel additives and will notify the public of any additional actions the Agency may take. EPA420-B-08-014 July-2008 ------- |