Tire anti-degradant (6PPD) and 6PPD-quinone

Tire on road making dust
6PPD stands for the chemical N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine. It's a chemical that prevents automotive tires from degrading (i.e., breaking down) and helps them last longer. When 6PPD is exposed to air, it reacts with ozone to create 6PPD-quinone (also known as 6PPDQ). 6PPDQ is lethal to coho salmon and can contaminate water systems.

We work with tribal and local governments, state and federal agencies, academic institutions, and industrial organizations to reduce the pollution and sources of 6PPDQ released from tires in Washington.

What are the impacts of 6PPDQ?

Driving causes tires to release dust and small particles because of friction on the road. These particles contain 6PPDQ, which then washes into stormwater, which can then spread to rivers, streams, and the Puget Sound. Since 6PPDQ was only recently discovered, we are still learning about this chemical and its impacts on wildlife.

Learn more about the connection between tires, fish, and us.

6PPDQ can end up in freshwater or marine environments harming wildlife. Green infrastructure can help remove toxic chemicals like 6PPDQ from stormwater.

Taking action to protect salmon

We’re focusing on three key efforts to effectively reduce the threat of 6PPDQ to salmon: