At a time when ecological awareness is reaching new heights, an innovation could radically transform the materials industry: recovered carbon black (rCB).
Derived from the thermal pyrolysis of used tires, this substitute for virgin carbon black (vCB) promises a significant reduction in carbon emissions while recycling otherwise harmful waste. This article examines in depth this technological advance, its economic issues, the challenges to be met and the potential impact on industrial and environmental practices.
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Carbon Black: An Omnipresent Component
Virgin carbon black (vCB), produced from the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products, is an essential component in the manufacture of many common consumer products, including car tires. Its production, however, is far from ecological, generating considerable amounts of CO2. The rCB then presents itself as a promising alternative, capable of reducing this carbon footprint significantly.
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Production process and advantages of rCB
The manufacture of rCB by thermal pyrolysis offers a double opportunity: it not only makes it possible to recycle tires at the end of their life, thus reducing waste, but also to reduce carbon emissions by five compared to the traditional production of vCB. These aspects make rCB an increasingly attractive option for industries concerned about their environmental impact.
Market Status and Growth Potential
Currently, global demand for carbon black stands at around 18 million tonnes per year, with Europe accounting for almost 15% of this demand. rCB has the potential to replace between 10% and 20% of traditional vCB uses in Europe, which could equate to an annual reduction of 250-550,000 tonnes, representing significant economic value.
Technical and regulatory challenges
Despite its potential, rCB faces several major challenges. The quality of rCB, often lower than that of vCB, limits its use in certain applications. In addition, pyrolysis technology remains relatively immature, which poses problems with consistency in the quality of the final product. The adoption of industry standards, such as those introduced by ASTM Committee D36, is crucial to overcoming these obstacles.
Main actors and innovation initiatives
Companies like Circtec, in partnership with Birla Carbon, as well as Pyrum Innovations AG and Bolder Industries, are at the forefront of rCB production. The commitment of major industrial players, such as Michelin, also supports the development of this technology. These collaborations are essential to increase production capacities and improve rCB manufacturing processes.
Towards a greener and more sustainable future
The introduction of rCB is redefining supply chains in the tire industry and beyond. With the support of investment funds and research and development initiatives, the sector is moving towards a substantial reduction in the environmental impacts associated with the production of black carbon. The expansion of rCB production could mark a turning point in the quest for more sustainable industrial solutions.
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This article explores the transition to recovered carbon black (rCB), an innovation that promises to reduce CO2 emissions while efficiently recycling used tires. By detailing the production processes, challenges and market potential of rCB, it highlights the emergence of a circular economy in heavy industry, highlighting the importance of technological innovations for a more sustainable future.
Source: Emerton
