Black Donuts targets 'complete switch' to sustainable tire materials

Pirkkala, Finland – The market for ‘green’ tires is set to almost triple in value over the next 10 years to reach $86 billion by 2033, according to Black Donuts, in a release highlighting its R&D priorities in the sustainability arena.

In particular, the Finnish tire technology firm is focused on the complete replacement of fossil-derived materials, which it estimates typically make up about 50-60% of tire-compositions.

According to its 1 Dec release, around 90% of tire-wear particles consist of fossil-based materials, which can break down over time into particles that add to the overall microplastics waste found in the oceans.

Parts of the tire exposed to wear should, therefore, be made from bio-based raw materials to reduce the harmful effects of fossil-based wear particles, said Martti Päivinen, in charge of quality and risk management at Black Donuts.

Then, said Päivinen, “if properly recycled, other parts of the tire can still contain fossil-based but recycled materials. This way, the end-of-life tire would be fully recycled.”

Black Donuts, he added, has been proactively sourcing sustainable materials for client projects and aims “to use only bio-based and recycled raw materials in tire production by 2030.”

“We are working with solutions where we can replace 100% of fossil-based carbon black with bio-based raw material in tires... for client projects. Our criteria are quality, price, reliability, and location.”

On the other hand, Päivinen said the shift towards more environmentally friendly tires should be a “gradual process,” especially as “technical properties and safety have to be ensured with new raw materials.”

Päivinen also stressed the need for a ‘circular economy’ approach, including investment in tire recycling and reuse programmes, as well as initiatives to extend the lifespan of tires.

“This not only minimises waste but also reduces demand for new raw materials,” he said. “A circular economy model is not only environmentally sound but also economically viable.”

“The world is changing,” concluded Päivinen. “People like electric cars these days, and they want eco-friendly tires. They want more sustainable tires that are made from natural or recycled materials.

“Also, rules and regulations are getting tougher. They’re making sure that tires don’t harm the environment. They’re also saying no to certain chemicals that used to be okay in tire production.”