What is traffic film?
Traffic film is a layer of persistent grime that accumulates on vehicles, especially from frequent road use, and is made up of various environmental and vehicular contaminants. It doesn’t simply consist of visible dirt but rather a complex mixture of residues including road dust, vehicle exhaust emissions, oil, brake dust, rubber particles, salt, and other pollutants that bond with the vehicle’s surfaces over time. This can make it particularly stubborn to remove with regular soap or water alone.
How Traffic Film Forms
Traffic film builds up due to the combination of several elements:
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Road Dust and Debris: This includes particles from the road, like small bits of asphalt, sand, or dirt, that attach themselves to vehicles, especially in wet or humid conditions.
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Exhaust Fumes: Emissions from both diesel and petrol engines release hydrocarbons and other particles that, over time, form a sticky residue on car surfaces. These particles are especially prevalent in high-traffic areas or during peak hours.
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Brake Dust: As brakes wear down, they release tiny particles of metal and other compounds. These particles contribute to traffic film and can be especially sticky, as they mix with road spray or moisture on the road.
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Oil and Grease: Leaked oils and fluids from other vehicles end up on the road and can be sprayed up onto vehicles, particularly in wet weather. Over time, oil residues mix with other materials, forming a thick layer of grime that can dull vehicle paint.
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Salt and Chemicals: In colder climates, road salt used to de-ice roads can contribute to traffic film. Salt particles create a corrosive environment that not only dulls a vehicle’s exterior but can lead to rust if not washed off thoroughly.
Why Traffic Film is Difficult to Remove
The makeup of traffic film is what makes it so hard to remove. Unlike loose dust or mud, traffic film contains sticky, oily residues that cling to the car’s surface and often bond at a microscopic level. When combined with elements like road salt and brake dust, it can create a hardened, greasy layer that basic car shampoos and water alone struggle to break down. This is why many car owners find that even after a standard wash, their vehicle can still appear dull or slightly grimy.
Solutions for Removing Traffic Film
To effectively remove traffic film, specialized products called Traffic Film Removers (TFRs) are commonly used. These are chemical formulations designed to break down the unique mix of oils, salts, and particles in traffic film without damaging the car’s paintwork. TFRs often contain surfactants, degreasers, and sometimes mild solvents that lift traffic film off the surface, making it easier to rinse away with water.
Typically, TFRs are applied with a pressure washer or sprayed onto the vehicle’s surface, allowed to dwell for a few minutes to penetrate the grime, and then rinsed off. Some TFRs are also formulated to be gentle on wax or protective coatings, while others are more aggressive and best for pre-wash treatments or heavily soiled vehicles.
Importance of Traffic Film Removal
Beyond aesthetic appeal, removing traffic film is also critical for vehicle maintenance. The buildup can degrade paint quality, leading to oxidation or corrosion if left unchecked. Brake dust and salt residues, in particular, can be corrosive, eventually causing pitting or rust spots on metal parts. Routine removal of traffic film helps maintain the vehicle’s finish, extending its lifespan and enhancing its resale value.
In summary, traffic film is a common but challenging form of grime that impacts vehicles, especially those frequently exposed to city traffic or harsh road conditions. Using the right cleaning techniques and products is essential to keep the vehicle looking new, protected, and free from potential damage caused by these stubborn contaminants.