The effects of volcanic ash exposure on vehicles

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Exposure to volcanic ash from volcanic eruptions can potentially cause damage to vehicles if not handled carefully.

Agus Purwadi, an automotive expert from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), explained that volcanic ash differs from ordinary dust.

“Its grains are often sharper and coarser, so when they rub against the car’s surface, the effect can be like fine sandpaper,” said Agus when contacted from Jakarta on Monday.

According to him, volcanic ash exposure can affect both a vehicle’s exterior surfaces and the functioning of its components.

Volcanic ash can clog air intakes, stick to wipers, get into body gaps, and accelerate the wear of moving components.

As a result, wiping down a vehicle covered in volcanic ash with a dry cloth can cause fine scratches on the windows and paintwork.

“Beyond these mechanical risks, the ash surface may also contain sulphate and chloride compounds which, when mixed with water or moisture and left to settle, can increase the risk of staining and corrosion,” Yannes explained.

He noted that cleaning volcanic ash off vehicles needs to be done with extra care.

“There are two problems: when dry, the ash can scratch due to friction, while in damp conditions and if left too long, it can increase the risk of chemical damage,” he said.

“Its extremely fine particles also allow the ash to enter easily into rubber seals, air filters, radiators, and various crevices of the vehicle. That is why volcanic ash should not be treated like ordinary dust that can simply be wiped off,” said Yannes.

He said that fine volcanic ash particles entering vehicle components can trigger problems if not addressed promptly and properly.