Knowledge Blog
Review: Recycling of used tires and their application for energy storage.
Waste tire disposal is a significant economic and environmental concern. Around 4 billion tons of trash tires are produced annually around the world, which makes it difficult to properly dispose of them and pollutes the environment . Due to the vulcanization process, which uses sulfur bonds, these tires are resistant to degrading, and they are further protected by antioxidants and antiozonants.
Stockpiles of used tires frequently serve as breeding sites for insects like mosquitoes, which can transmit infectious and unidentified diseases. Additionally, disposing of used tires in landfills depletes valuable land resources. There are worthwhile options to keep in mind, though. Waste tires can be recycled and used to make a variety of rubber products, such as doormats, gaskets, wheel chocks, playground mats, sports surfaces, rubber-modified asphalt, and railroad crossing mats.
The development of novel techniques for recycling used tires has been the subject of substantial research in recent years. These techniques include grinding, crumbling, re-treading, combustion, and pyrolysis. Pyrolysis-based recycling is one of these techniques that has drawn a lot of attention because of its little negative environmental effects. Waste tires are thermally decomposed during pyrolysis, which normally occurs at temperatures of 400°C in an atmosphere of nitrogen (N2). Tire pyrolysis oil, pyro-gases, and pyro-char are the end products of this process.
The oil produced during tire pyrolysis (TPO) is a chemically intricate combination that includes polar, aliphatic, heteroatom, and aromatic components. TPO can be used in engines as an alternative fuel. Due to the high hydrogen content of pyro-gas, it can be burned as fuel during pyrolysis. Finally, because of its high carbon content, pyro-char can be used as a cheap precursor to create porous activated carbon materials, which are used in energy storage devices.
(Courtesy- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214993719300636).
Tirenergy
In the era of environmental awareness and sustainable living, innovative solutions are emerging to tackle waste and pollution head-on. One such solution is the recycling and repurposing of shredded tires, which are notorious for their environmental impact when disposed of improperly. Let's explore the myriad ways in which shredded tires can be transformed from a waste problem into valuable resources for a greener future.
1. Rubber Mulch for Landscaping:
Garden Bliss: Shredded tire rubber can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional mulch. It helps with soil moisture retention, weed suppression, and prevents soil erosion, all while giving your garden a neat, finished look.
Playground Safety: Rubber mulch is a preferred choice for playground surfaces. Its shock-absorbing properties protect children from injuries during falls, making it a safer option than gravel or wood chips.
2. Road Construction and Infrastructure:
Crumb Rubber Asphalt: Shredded tires can be incorporated into asphalt to create crumb rubber asphalt. This innovative material enhances road durability, reduces road noise, and provides better skid resistance.
Noise Barriers: Rubber from tires can be used to create effective noise barriers along highways, mitigating noise pollution and improving the quality of life for nearby residents.
3. Synthetic Turf and Sports Fields:
Eco-Friendly Fields: Synthetic sports fields and artificial turf are often filled with crumb rubber made from recycled tires. This not only offers a safe playing surface but also reduces the need for water and maintenance associated with natural grass fields.
4. Construction and Industrial Applications:
Shock Absorbers: Shredded tire rubber can be used in the production of shock-absorbing materials for industrial and construction purposes, enhancing safety in various applications.
Lightweight Fill: Tire-derived aggregate (TDA) made from shredded tires is used in construction projects as lightweight fill material. It's ideal for areas with unstable soils and helps reduce construction costs.
5. Creative Upcycling:
Art and Design: Shredded tires can be creatively repurposed into furniture, décor, and sculptures, adding a unique touch to homes and public spaces.
Fashion and Accessories: Some innovative designers have even turned recycled tire rubber into stylish and eco-friendly fashion items like belts, bags, and footwear.
6. Energy Generation:
Tire Pyrolysis: Used tires can be converted into energy through pyrolysis, producing valuable products like oil, carbon black, and syngas. This not only reduces waste but also contributes to the renewable energy sector.
Conclusion: Making Every Tire Count
The proper use of shredded tires is a testament to human ingenuity and our commitment to reducing waste and environmental harm. By choosing sustainable alternatives and repurposing materials like shredded tires, we contribute to a more eco-conscious and responsible society.
At Letbudget Limited, we believe in the power of innovative solutions for a greener world. Let's continue to explore creative uses for materials like shredded tires and make every tire count towards a more sustainable future. Together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, safer, and more environmentally-friendly tomorrow.
