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.