rCB

For the layman: What is this project about?
The aim of the project is to process the coal-based fillers obtained from a novel pyrolysis process in such a way that they can serve as a near-complete substitute for commercial carbon blacks derived from fossil raw materials. Furthermore, the specific properties of the carbon blacks produced are to be utilised to develop new products (mixtures and articles manufactured from them) based on very pure, PAH-free fillers.

What motivated you to take part in this call for proposals? Where did the idea come from?
The idea for this project arose in collaboration with Ms Grefen from the innovative SME MOCO, which has developed a novel pyrolysis technology, and with the company K.U.K.T., a manufacturer of technical elastomer articles, which is actively seeking alternative, sustainable and long-term secure raw material sources for its rubber compounds. The idea of using the newly obtained pyrolysis carbon black as a potential raw material for products holds particular potential for promoting a circular economy and minimising dependence on finite resources. The partnership between a pyrolysis technology developer and a manufacturer of technical elastomer products also opens up an exciting opportunity to exploit synergies and drive forward sustainable innovation, thereby not only delivering economic benefits but also making a significant contribution to environmental protection and resource conservation.

What benefits does this project bring to society and/or in terms of sustainability?
Over a trillion vehicle tyres are produced worldwide every year, resulting in more than 30 million metric tonnes of waste in vast landfill sites (as of 2021). The conventional practice of using end-of-life tyres as fuel for purposes such as cement production is no longer acceptable due to the sulphur and nitrogen oxides released during combustion. Furthermore, the complex composition of tyres makes it difficult to separate raw materials and thus to recycle them. The innovative pyrolysis process, which operates at very high temperatures, enables effective processing and thus an environmentally friendly and sustainable use of end-of-life tyres. This focus on cradle-to-cradle principles and the technical cycle serves the long-term goal of minimising waste and using resources efficiently. The implementation of this project therefore represents a significant step towards a resource-efficient and environmentally friendly future.

Who else is on board?
The commercial project partners are MOCO Maschinen- und Apparatebau GmbH and K.U.K.T. GmbH.