Johnson Matthey, a producer of catalytic systems for emission control in light and heavy duty vehicles, is supplying its CRT filter technology and PIO-CAN filter monitor to the tractor currently being used in a dust suppressant trial.

Trials are occurring in specific areas of London that have been identified as at risk of exceedingthe limit, set by the EU, for fine particles that can exist in the air.

Transport for London's (TfL's) tractor, fitted with Johnson Matthey's CRT system and bespoke spraying equipment on loan from Austria, spreads Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA), which binds fine dust to the road in an effort to significantly reduce particulate concentrations.

Dust suppressants have already been applied in Europe, achieving particulate matter reductions of between 10 and 20%. TfL is trialling the measures to discover its effectiveness in London.

Trials have already begun on major arteries and now, in addition to this, the London Borough of Camden is working in partnership with TfL to spread dust suppressant in King's Cross to determine if this measure can lower particulate matter levels.