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Transforming Tyres into Plastics: Neste, Borealis, & Covestro Lead Circular Innovation

Synopsis: Neste, Borealis, and Covestro have forged a groundbreaking project agreement aimed at revolutionizing the recycling of used tyres into high-quality plastics for automotive applications. This collaborative initiative aims to drive circularity within plastics value chains by employing advanced chemical recycling techniques. The process involves liquefying used tyres, converting them into base chemicals, and ultimately refining them into high-purity polycarbonates. These innovative materials are set to find application in various automotive components, ranging from headlamp parts to radiator grilles.
Friday, June 28, 2024
Neste
Source : ContentFactory

The joint effort between Neste, Borealis, and Covestro represents a significant leap forward in sustainable manufacturing practices within the automotive industry. By harnessing chemical recycling technologies, the partners aim to tackle environmental challenges posed by end-of-life tyres while simultaneously meeting the stringent quality demands of automotive applications.

Neste, a global leader in renewable fuels and sustainable solutions, brings its expertise in refining renewable raw materials to the collaboration. Borealis, renowned for its innovation in the plastics industry, contributes its extensive knowledge in polyolefins and base chemicals. Covestro, a frontrunner in high-performance materials, lends its proficiency in polycarbonates and other advanced polymer solutions.

The recycling process starts with the liquefaction of used tyres, a critical step facilitated by advanced chemical processes. This liquefied material is then transformed into base chemicals, which serve as the building blocks for high-purity polycarbonates. These polycarbonates exhibit superior quality and are tailored specifically for demanding automotive applications, ensuring both performance and sustainability.

The initiative not only aims to reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional tyre disposal but also supports the automotive industry's shift towards more sustainable practices. By repurposing used tyres into valuable raw materials for high-performance plastics, the project promotes resource efficiency and contributes to the circular economy goals of all three companies involved.

In addition to environmental benefits, the project is expected to catalyze technological advancements in chemical recycling and polymer manufacturing. By integrating innovative processes and technologies, Neste, Borealis, and Covestro are paving the way for scalable solutions that can be replicated across industries, driving broader adoption of circular economy principles.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in the face of global environmental challenges. By collaborating on transformative projects like tyre-to-plastic recycling, Neste, Borealis, and Covestro are not only addressing current sustainability goals but also setting new benchmarks for future industry standards.

As the project moves forward, stakeholders anticipate significant advancements in the field of chemical recycling and sustainable materials development. With a focus on enhancing the quality and performance of recycled plastics, the initiative promises to deliver tangible benefits for both the automotive sector and the environment.