The Korean Railway Research Institute (KRRI) has developed a new method to reduce the amount of ultra-fine metal dust particles produced by contact between train wheels and rails, which is the main cause of particulate matter in Korean metro systems. KRRI has conducted research to simulate wheel-rail contact. This involved spraying water on the wheel-rail contact surface to reduce frictional force and frictional heat, which are the main causes of abrasive particles. This reduced the amount of particulate matter generated by about 75% and 64% at speeds of 45 km/h and 80 km/h, respectively, compared to dry conditions. The current research project is scheduled to continue until the end of 2024.
