Rubber Recycling Need and Trends
Rubber waste is a global problem
Rubber remains a critical material to a number of industries and for a number of applications. Rubber waste is a global problem which is being addressed by a numerous people and bodies all over the world.
Once vulcanized elastomers have reached the end of their working lives, they must
be recycled or disposed of.
Whilst tires are often regarded as the primary target area for elastomer recycling, the waste from other products cannot be ignored, particularly the material scrapped during product manufacture (flashing, webbing, trim, etc.).
Why recycle rubber?
The need for efficient and effective recycling technologies has never been clearer, particularly in consumer orientated societies. There are growing concerns regarding the environmental impact of rubber waste and scraps.
A number of organizations in Europe and in the USA are currently examining alternative approaches to dealing with waste rubber / elastomeric materials.
Legislative pressure
Disposal is becoming more and more forbidden globally.
Costs to get rid of the rubber waste are increasing.
Obligation to re-use recycled materials is more and more imposed to the industry.
Current approaches
Disposal processes and technologies
A number of processes and technologies are currently applied to scrapped tyres and other polymer waste.
These can be generally classified as:
- Landfilling, where waste material is either buried or stockpiled (in raw or crumbed form) awaiting further processing. Measures are in place to limit landfilling in Europe and North America.
- Down cycling where limited properties of the material are used.
- Energy recovery where the material is incinerated to release stored energy.
- Recycling where direct use is made of the product or the material : that's what REP HSR technology does for you !
Future trends
The market potential for a technology that can truly recycle rubber economically and simply, is huge.
- Recycling is offering a wide cost reduction potential.
- Green products are offering a marketing argument.
- Companies are more and more adopting environmental procedures.
The increase in environmental concern, legislation and financial penalties will continue to act as primary drivers in the search for the ideal recycling method.
