End-of-Life tyres applications, Technologies and environmental impacts

João, Patricio. Andersson-Sköld, Yvonne & Gustafsson, Mats

Location

Diva portal

Abstract

The worldwide consumption of tyres is growing, with an estimated global tyre production of approximately 2.2 billion tons in 2019. Tyres may contain a large variety of chemical compounds and therefore must be managed properly. On the other hand, end-of-life tyres contain several unique characteristics that make them suitable for multiple applications. This report focuses on analyzing end- of-life tyre management in Europe in general and Sweden in particular. The study also investigates the recycling technologies available in the market to manage end-of-life tyres. Furthermore, the expected environmental impacts for end-of-life tyres, in general, are investigated. The study is done based on a literature review, which is complemented with information obtained from interviews with relevant actors. In Sweden, end-of-life tyres are a substantial waste flow, accounting for approximately 85,000 tons per year. Sixty-five percent of tyres in Sweden are used as an energy source for energy production or in the cement industry, 34% are reused or recycled and 1% are exported. The report presents several opportunities for the use of end-of-life tyres (or materials) highlighting the material versatility. Examples include the use of tyre shreds as lightweight material or the use of granulated rubber in applications such as asphalt or concrete production. Many of the presented applications have a high potential contribution to a more circular economy. However, there is a need to better brand the applications as well link different stakeholders. Regarding the environmental analysis, the use of these end-of-life tyres may reduce the need of several virgin materials and reduces energy use. The literature analysis of potential leaching and human and environmental risks are inconclusive and there is still a lack of knowledge regarding leaching, bioavailability, toxicity and the related human and environmental risks in different applications. While some studies have shown that the use of end-of- life tyres materials is safe for the environment, others have shown a potential release risk of metals and PAHs. Therefore, the implementation of scientifically and risk-based regulations that define substances limits for tyre-derived products would potentially help the acceptance and use of these materials by users and contractors. Particularly for applications in which the tyre-derived products might be in contact with sensitive groups in the population, e.g. children. The standardization of tyre- derived materials with specific physical and chemical characteristics could be a step forward to increase the production of high-quality materials.

Let's make the use of biobased and recovered raw materials the new standard.

Let's make the use of biobased and recovered raw materials the new standard.

Let's make the use of biobased and recovered raw materials the new standard.