Introduction

Tyres are often overlooked despite being a marvel of engineering, playing a crucial role in vehicle safety and performance. Did you know that around 200 different raw materials come together to create a single car tyre? In recent years, the tyre industry has embarked on a significant journey towards sustainability, aiming to transform the materials used in tyre production. This article explores the innovative steps taken by tyre manufacturers to embrace renewable and recycled materials, the challenges they face, and what the future holds for sustainable tyres.

Full Article

Tyres are composed of a variety of materials, with about 20% coming from renewable or recycled sources, while the rest is largely derived from petroleum. Many manufacturers have set ambitious goals, promising that their tyres will be made entirely from renewable or recycled materials by 2050. However, achieving this target is not a simple task due to the intricate design of tyres. Each material serves a specific purpose, and safety remains the top priority.

Rubber, making up 20-30% of a car tyre, is the most abundant material. The primary source of natural rubber is the sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), which is native to tropical regions. Unfortunately, the demand for rubber has led to significant environmental issues, including deforestation. In response, Michelin was the first tyre manufacturer to commit to avoiding rubber sourced from deforested areas. Today, over 75 manufacturers are collaborating under the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber to promote sustainable farming techniques and reduce the environmental impact of rubber plantations.

In addition to natural rubber, manufacturers are exploring alternative sources such as the guayule shrub (Parthenium argentatum) and Russian dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz). These plants were researched during World War II due to their potential to provide rubber when traditional sources were cut off. Bridgestone has opened a research center in Arizona to investigate guayule’s potential, while Continental has established a facility in Germany focused on Russian dandelion rubber.

Synthetic rubbers are also under scrutiny. These are produced through the polymerization of isoprene, a by-product of petroleum. While synthetic rubbers have been used in tyres since the 1930s, advancements are now being made to develop more sustainable versions. Michelin is working on producing renewable butadiene from plant biomass, while Bridgestone is exploring methods to create synthetic rubber from end-of-life tyres using microbial technology.

The carbon black used in tyres, which is derived from petroleum, is another area being targeted for sustainability. Current processes reclaim less than 1% of the carbon black from used tyres. However, new technologies are being developed to enhance this recovery, with a goal of producing 100% renewable or recycled tyres by 2050. Bridgestone and Michelin have published a white paper advocating for global standards to increase the use of recovered carbon black.

The push towards sustainability doesn’t stop with the materials. Tyre manufacturers are also focusing on reducing the environmental footprint during the tyre’s entire life cycle. While materials account for 10-15% of the tyre’s impact, the majority occurs during usage. Efforts are underway to create tyres that emit fewer particles and improve fuel efficiency, reducing energy consumption.

Continental has introduced the UltraContact NXT tyre, which is made from recycled PET bottles, while Michelin is collaborating with Carbios to recycle PET using enzymatic processes. These innovations aim to make the tyre industry more sustainable and reduce reliance on virgin materials.

Conclusion

The journey towards 100% sustainable tyres is gaining momentum, but it requires collaboration and innovation across the industry. As regulations tighten and consumer demand for greener products rises, tyre manufacturers are stepping up their efforts to create environmentally friendly options. The future of tyres is not just about the materials they contain; it’s about a holistic approach to sustainability that encompasses the entire lifecycle of the product.

FAQs Section

1. What materials are used in tyres?

Tyres are made from about 200 different raw materials, including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, carbon black, and various chemicals to enhance performance and durability.

2. How much of a tyre is made from renewable materials?

Currently, around 20% of the materials used in a typical car tyre are renewable or recycled, with the goal of reaching 100% by 2050.

3. What are the alternatives to natural rubber?

Manufacturers are exploring alternatives like guayule shrub and Russian dandelion, which can provide natural rubber without contributing to deforestation.

4. Why is sustainability important in tyre manufacturing?

Sustainability is crucial to reduce the environmental impact of tyre production, including deforestation, pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels. Sustainable practices help protect ecosystems and promote a healthier planet.

5. How are tyre manufacturers improving their sustainability practices?

Tyre manufacturers are investing in research and development to create renewable and recycled materials, enhance recycling processes, and reduce the overall environmental footprint of tyres throughout their lifecycle.

Tags

Sustainability, Tyre Manufacturing, Renewable Materials, Recycled Materials, Carbon Black, Eco-Friendly, Environmental Impact, Rubber Alternatives, Future of Tyres, Innovation in Tyre Industry