Month by month, our Weibold Academy series touches different topics from the world of tire recycling and highlights different sides of running this business.

In tire recycling, one can create different types of output depending on production technology. From each output type, several applications can be produced, hence different industries and markets can be targeted.

Currently, there is a wide range of products that can be developed via tire recycling. However, to significantly increase profits, R&D activities prove to be an integral part of tire recycling.

Success of products on the market largely depends on the regions where they are sold. In developed economies, TPE and recovered carbon black are two sectors that are growing more and more rapidly. Given the need for high-end equipment, R&D and frequent product tests, these sectors are regarded as capital-intensive but once firmly established they will become an industry driver in most parts of the world. However, there are a plenty of other sectors which have great potential worldwide. Tire-derived fuel is more and more used in cement production instead of conventional fossil fuels. It produces more energy than coal and cuts down CO2 emissions. Yet, it is a cheaper alternative to fossil fuel for businesses.

Crumb rubber is a conventional and the most widespread material on the market which is used in molded products, insulation systems, traffic equipment, construction industry, flooring and in many other fields.

Fine rubber powder is used in rubberized asphalt – a popular technology which is more durable and cost-efficient compared to conventional pavement. Rubber powder is also used in coatings, insulation systems, TPE and other products. Besides TPE, the most interesting field of application for rubber powder is tire and rubber industry. Requiring significant research and development in devulcanization, but supported by tire industry majors and big institutions, rubber powder has a vast potential as a raw material for new tires. Several tire industry majors are working on closing the loop of the circular economy and integrating rubber powder back into tire manufacturing.

Tire pyrolysis oil can be a good solution for local heating companies; also, it proves increasingly useful in production of alternative fuels, both for stationary engines – for electricity generation, and vehicular engines. Both in Europe and the United States, large tire pyrolysis operators, as well as independent institutions, carry out researches on properties enhancement, stabilization and purification of the product. Over the next five to ten years, the product will continue fast-paced growth partially replacing traditional fuels in various sectors.

Recovered carbon black from tires is an innovative break-through that reduces production costs utilizes tire pyrolysis char as a substitute for virgin carbon black. Even though it is a very capital-intensive field there is a vast potential for this material in the rubber and plastic industries. Thanks to the efforts of industry majors and researchers, the product is more and more used by automotive and other big industries in Europe and in the United States.

Tire recycling industry has a bright future ahead of it, developing economies will witness gradual improvement in tire recycling practices, environmental regulations and increasing business opportunities created by the recycling industry.

Weibold carries out market researches and monitors innovations in the field of tire recycling technologies and products made from recycled rubber. Our studies helped many tire recycling companies around the world launch and upgrade their plants, opt for right products, add value to their goods and optimize manufacturing. To learn more about our activities, consider list of our services.

If you would like to upgrade your tire recycling business or if you want to receive more information on developments of the global tire recycling market, Weibold will be happy to help you. Just write us to [email protected]!

Article by Malay Mail.