Innovative tire technologies such as sealed and silent tires offer drivers greater comfort and safety – but pose new challenges for old tire disposal. The sealants and sound-absorbing foam layers integrated into the tires complicate recycling and require special attention during disposal.
Seal tires contain a special gel that automatically seals minor punctures, while silent tires feature a PU foam that reduces rolling noise. Both technologies are firmly bonded to the tire and are difficult to separate during material or thermal recycling.
For certified waste tire disposal companies, this means that precise identification of these tire types upon receipt is essential. Furthermore, recycling methods must be adapted accordingly, as the foreign substances can affect the quality of the rubber granules. In practice, problems with sorting and raw material recovery are becoming increasingly apparent.
ZARE calls on all stakeholders in the value chain to work together on solutions – especially through early labeling and uniform recording of these tire technologies. This is the only way to ensure sustainable and proper disposal in the future.
