Devulcanization for Tire Recycling
End-of-life tires present a significant recycling challenge, with over 1 billion waste tires generated annually worldwide. The vulcanization process that makes tire rubber durable creates strong sulfur crosslinks between polymer chains, making the material resistant to conventional recycling methods. Breaking these bonds while preserving the valuable polymer structures requires precise control of thermal, mechanical, and chemical conditions.
The fundamental challenge lies in selectively breaking sulfur crosslinks without degrading the main polymer chains that give rubber its essential properties.
This page brings together solutions from recent research—including mechanochemical catalysis, supercritical fluid treatments, controlled microwave processing, and turbulent gas-phase devulcanization. These and other approaches focus on producing devulcanized rubber that maintains sufficient material properties for reuse in new tires and other high-performance applications.
1. Vulcanizing Agent with α-Olefin Double Bonds for Reversible Diels-Alder Crosslinking
DALIAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, 2025
A vulcanizing agent for rubber that allows reversible crosslinking and recycling. The agent has a structure with α-olefin double bonds that can undergo reversible Diels-Alder cycloaddition reactions at high and low temperatures. At high temperatures, the cycloaddition breaks the crosslinks. At lower temperatures, the crosslinks reform. This allows the rubber to be repeatedly vulcanized and de-vulcanized without chain scission. The reversible crosslinking enables recycling of crosslinked polymers like vulcanized rubber.
2. Innovative approaches to thermochemical devulcanization of carbon black-filled SBR
anuwat worlee, sitisaiyidah saiwari, wilma k dierkes - SAGE Publishing, 2025
This investigation fully studied optimizing the thermochemical desulfurization process for carbon black-filled styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) by examining black type effect and loading amount on performance. The analysis of devulcanization efficiency required Horikx-Verbruggen method to evaluate sol fraction crosslink density relationships. When higher amounts are present, speed crosslinking interactions increases. An increase in rate reached 170% N-330, while N-550 showed an 87% such rates. size particles N-330 does not impact performance results. researchers optimized procedures using temperature time variations as critical variables. study results indicate that reduced combined with shorter periods helps minimize formation, improving aggregation behavior system becomes more pronounced when high-temperature conditions prevail, thus it impacts operations outcome. demonstrates necessity match approaches compound characteristics enhanced product properties extended life span applications.
3. Continuous Extrusion Process for Decrosslinking and Recrosslinking Vulcanized Rubber Waste
RUBBERGREEN INDUSTRIE, 2025
Recycling crosslinked elastomer waste like vulcanized rubber by devulcanization followed by crosslinking again. The recycling process involves continuously extruding the waste rubber in chip form, decrosslinking it inside the extruder, cooling the decrosslinked paste, then mixing in crosslinking agents. This allows recovering high-performance rubber from waste that can be used in new applications. The decrosslinking is done by shearing and self-heating the chips in the extruder, followed by cooling to prevent premature curing before adding crosslinking agents.
4. Hydrothermal Cracking and Fractionation of End-of-Life Tires for Component Recovery and New Tire Production
THE GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO, 2025
Recycling end-of-life tires into new tires with high efficiency by converting the waste tires into valuable feedstocks for tire production. The tires are hydrothermally cracked to separate oil, water, and solids. The oil is fractionated to extract wax and process oil. The wax is refined and the process oil is steam cracked to make tire components like elastomers, resins, and additives. The solids contain fillers like carbon black and silica. The recovered fillers, wax, and process oil are then used to make new tires, with at least 50% of the tire weight coming from recycled tire materials.
5. Plasma-assisted devulcanization of waste rubber powder using a dielectric barrier discharge reactor
nan jiang, yubo wang, ju li - Research Square, 2025
<title>Abstract</title> The extensive production and consumption of ground tire rubber (GTR) have led to a significant accumulation waste, posing substantial environmental challenge. To enhance the recycling efficiency GTR, this work introduces an innovative plasma-assisted method utilizing dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) technology for devulcanization. Experimental results demonstrate that, after plasma treatment at voltage 18 kV 30 minutes, crosslink density decreased from 2.110<sup> 4</sup> 0.810<sup> mol/cm<sup>3</sup>, gel content reduced 96.890.5%, indicating effective cleavage S-S C-S bonds during process. Notably, corresponding tensile strength elongation break plasma-regenerated reached 10.2 MPa 357.7%, respectively, meeting standards high-grade applications. Finally, plausible mechanism underlying devulcanization process is proposed. This novel approach holds promise enhancing sustainability by enabling efficient eco-friendly recycling.
6. Green Chemical Devulcanization Systems
zaheer ul haq, shifeng wang - Royal Society of Chemistry, 2025
This chapter provides an overview of environmentally-friendly chemical devulcanization systems, with in-depth discussion the key methodologies, advantages, and challenges. Beginning introduction to rubber technologies, proceeds various systems currently in use. A focal point is emergence green practices devulcanization, including thermo-oxidation, bioremediation, utilization supercritical fluids as mediums for devulcanization. The effectiveness, sustainability, applicability different processes are discussed, advantages disadvantages commonly employed devulcanizing agents compared. Finally, a summary findings recommendations future research directions provided. serves comprehensive resource understanding advancements challenges
7. Low‐Temperature Rubber Devulcanization via Sulfate Removal Using Hypochlorous Acid and Novel Turbidimetric Analysis
yonchen hariyanto, chen wai wong, joash ban lee tan - Wiley, 2025
ABSTRACT This study presents a novel approach to rubber devulcanization using combination of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O ) as an alternative traditional nitric acidbased methods. The optimized process, utilizing HCl H relative the rubber's weight, demonstrated superior sulfur removal compared conventional treatments. Notably, :HCl achieved significant extraction, reducing SO 4 content by 0.00444 g at 120% w/w concentration. process effectively restores gummy state with minimal oxidation (17.95%), making it ideal for recycling applications. Sulfur was accurately measured newly developed turbidimetric barium test confirmed through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis, which revealed morphological changes. Additionally, this method resulted in significantly lower nitration devulcanized acid, potentially allowing material be pressed revulcanized into new products. Finally, gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GCMS) analysis sol fraction that chain scissions led formation various valueadded compounds. challenges indicators succe... Read More
8. Microwave-Assisted Surface Devulcanization Process for Recycling Waste Tire Rubber
1307843 BC LTD, 2025
Recycling waste tires into useful rubber compounds using microwave-assisted surface devulcanization. The process involves separating metal and fibers from waste tires, micronizing the vulcanized crumb rubber, applying a dose of microwave energy to sever sulfidic crosslinks, mixing the devulcanized rubber with plastic and oil, and extruding it to produce recycled rubber compounds like crumb rubber or end-of-life tire compounds. The microwave devulcanization step enables efficient recycling of waste tires without harsh solvents or chemical compatibilizers.
9. Method for Co-Vulcanization of Vulcanized Rubber Using Diffusion Barrier for Crosslinking Control
APPIA, LLC, 2024
Method for recycling vulcanized rubber to increase performance and allow higher recycled rubber content compared to prior methods. The key is using a barrier material to prevent sulfur and cure accelerators from the fresh rubber diffusing into the recycled rubber during co-vulcanization. This prevents additional crosslinking in the recycled rubber and improves bonding between the two types of rubber. The barrier material forms a diffusion barrier around the ground recycled rubber particles in the fresh rubber matrix during vulcanization.
10. Ultrasonic Cracking Method for Producing Reclaimed Rubber from Waste Tires
ANHUI ZHONGHONG RUBBER & PLASTIC CO LTD, 2023
Method for producing reclaimed rubber from waste tires using ultrasonic cracking. The method involves crushing tires, mixing with oil and acid, ultrasonic agitation, aging, extrusion, and kneading. The ultrasonic agitation step breaks down the rubber's crosslinked network using ultrasonic waves. The aging step allows the oil and acid to penetrate. The extrusion and kneading steps further process the rubber. The ultrasonic cracking improves reclaimed rubber properties compared to traditional methods.
11. Process for Producing Rubber Powder from Waste Tires Using Sequential Magnetic, Microwave, and Ultrasonic Treatments
GUIZHOU HUAYU RUBBER TECH CO LTD, GUIZHOU HUAYU RUBBER TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2023
A process for preparing high quality rubber powder from waste tires with improved yield and desulfurization compared to existing methods. The process involves cutting waste tires into particles, followed by steps of magnetic separation, microwave radiation, grinding, magnetic separation, microwave radiation, selective separation, desulfurizer treatment, ultrasonic treatment, ammonia circulating fluidized bed treatment, and final microwave radiation to produce the rubber powder. This sequence of treatments allows smooth grinding, high yield, good desulfurization, and high quality rubber powder.
12. Rubber Dissolution Method Using Fatty Acid Methyl Ester and Propyl Bromide for Component Separation
Eiko Co., Ltd., EIKO CO LTD, 2023
Waste disposal method for dissolving rubber products like tires and seismic isolation rubber units to recycle the rubber and separate the rubber and metal components. The method involves immersing the waste rubber in a solvent containing fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) to dissolve the rubber at temperatures below the ignition point. Before dissolution, the rubber can be pretreated with a solvent containing propyl bromide to accelerate dissolution without damaging the metal. This allows separating and recycling the rubber without burning or shredding the waste.
13. Process for Producing Tread Regenerated Rubber Using NMP, DMF, DBTDL, and MBA with Specific Mass Ratios
FUJIAN ZHONGHONG NEW MATERIAL TECH CO LTD, FUJIAN ZHONGHONG NEW MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2023
A process for producing tread regenerated rubber that reduces pollution and improves properties compared to conventional methods. The process involves treating waste tire rubber powder with a specific combination of solvents, catalysts, and crosslinking agents to regenerate the rubber into usable tread material. The solvents used are N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and dimethylformamide (DMF). The catalyst is dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL). The crosslinking agent is N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA). The mass ratios used are 1:1:1 (solvent:catalyst:crosslinking agent) and 2:0.7:2.5 (rubber:solvent:crosslinking agent). This treatment allows efficient desulfurization and regeneration of the rubber
14. Method for Devulcanizing Diene Rubber Using Solid Amine Compound with Shear Force Application
TOYO TIRE CORP, 2023
A method for producing devulcanized rubber with improved properties after vulcanization. The method involves heating and mixing vulcanized diene rubber with a desulfurizing agent that is a solid amine compound. The mixing is done at temperatures below 100°C to prevent rubber chain scission. Applying a shear force during mixing enhances desulfurization efficiency. The amine compound selectively cleaves sulfur crosslinks without degrading the rubber chain. This produces devulcanized rubber with better post-vulcanization properties compared to conventional devulcanization methods.
15. Devulcanized Rubber with High Molecular Weight Liquid Component via Aldehyde Solvent and Aliphatic Double Bond Cleavage
BRIDGESTONE CORP, 2023
Devulcanized rubber with high molecular weight liquid component for recycling and reuse in rubber products like tires. The devulcanization process involves heating vulcanized rubber in a solvent containing an aldehyde with a carbon chain of at least 2. This breaks crosslinks and generates free radicals. Adding a compound with aliphatic double bonds further helps cleavage. The solvent and reaction conditions prevent complete degradation, yielding a devulcanized rubber with a soluble component having molecular weight 260-600kDa. This can be used as a high molecular weight liquid rubber in new crosslinked products like tires, providing better mechanical strength compared to conventional devulcanized rubbers.
16. Continuous Process for Producing High-Strength Liquid Rubber via Desulfurization and Regeneration of Pulverized Waste Tires
HANGZHOU ZHONGCE RUBBER CYCLE SCIENCE AND TECH CO LTD, HANGZHOU ZHONGCE RUBBER CYCLE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, ZHONGCE RUBBER GROUP CO LTD, 2023
Continuous process for preparing high-strength liquid rubber from waste tires that can be used as a processing aid in tire manufacturing. The process involves crushing tires, removing impurities, and then blending the pulverized rubber with specific proportions of liquid rubbers, functionalized liquid rubbers, and unsaturated dienoic acids. This modified rubber is then extruded to desulfurize and regenerate it into a high-strength, low-viscosity liquid rubber that has improved compatibility, adhesion, and properties compared to unmodified waste tire rubber.
17. Mill-Based Process for Devulcanizing Tire Rubber via High Turbulence and Micronization
ATLANTIS RUBBER POWDERS B V, ATLANTIS RUBBER POWDERS BV, 2023
Manufacturing devulcanized rubber that can be used as a viable substitute to virgin rubber in different types of applications, such as in tyres and general rubber goods such as conveyor belts, sheeting, extrusion profiles and moulded products. The process includes introducing tyre rubber particles to a mill; introducing a gaseous flow in the mill for generating a field of high turbulence, strong eddies and high energy impact between the tyre rubber particles which causes micronization and rupture of the tyre rubber particles due to extreme hysteresis and mechanical forces sufficient to at least partially devulcanize the tyre rubber particles; and fast dissipation of the heat generated into the gaseous flow.
18. Devulcanization of Vulcanized Rubber Using Twin-Screw Extruder with Upper Barrel Regenerative Agent Feed
CONTINENTAL REIFEN DEUTSCHLAND GMBH, 2023
Method for devulcanizing vulcanized rubber to recycle old tires and improve properties of rubber articles. The method involves using a twin-screw extruder with a regenerative agent feed point in the upper half of the barrel. The extruder devulcanizes the rubber at temperatures around 100-150°C. This breaks the sulfur bonds without shortening the polymer chains. The devulcanized rubber can be further processed into new rubber mixtures with better properties compared to using fully devulcanized rubber. The extruder configuration with regenerative agent feed allows efficient devulcanization without chain scission.
19. Rubber Devulcanization via High-Boiling Swelling Agent and Oxygen-Induced Sulfur Oxidation
GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER, THE GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO, 2023
Devulcanization of rubber products like tires to recycle them by breaking the sulfur crosslinks without melting the rubber. The process involves mixing the vulcanized rubber particles with a high-boiling swelling agent and heating them in oxygen. The high-boiling swelling agent causes the rubber to swell, making it easier to break the sulfur bonds. The oxygen oxidizes the sulfur and devulcanizes the rubber. After devulcanization, the rubber chains can be separated from the swelling agent. This allows recycling of the devulcanized rubber by reusing it in new products rather than disposing of it.
20. Extruder-Based Method for Crosslink Disruption and Functional Group Grafting in Tire Rubber Recycling
Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Recycling Technology Co., Ltd., HANGZHOU ZHONGCE RUBBER LOOP TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2022
A method to recycle old tires into reusable rubber by breaking the crosslinks in the tire rubber and adding functional groups to improve compatibility with other rubber compounds. The method involves using an extruder to mechanically shear and heat the tire rubber powder. This partially breaks the three-dimensional network crosslinks, reverting the rubber to a linear structure. Simultaneously, the high temperature and mechanical force cause chemical reactions between the tire rubber and a composite functionalized modifier containing groups like -C=C- and -COOH. This grafts functional groups onto the reverted rubber to improve its properties and compatibility with other rubbers.
21. Reclaimed Rubber Production via Magnetic Separation and Dynamic Desulfurization with Specific Additive Ratios
WANG JINMING, 2022
Reclaimed rubber made by crushing waste vulcanized rubber and separating it by magnetic separation to obtain rubber powder, which is then dynamically desulfurized and refined. The preparation includes uniformly mixing 98-102 parts by weight of waste tire rubber powder, 4-8 parts by weight of regeneration activator, 6-12 parts by weight of paraffin oil and 1-4 parts by weight of anti-aging agent, Add to the reaction kettle for reaction, the reaction temperature is 100-130 °C, and the reaction time is 2-4 hours; After completion, the cooling water is cooled, and the temperature of the material in the reaction kettle is lowered to 60-80 ° C, and then 6-12 parts of regeneration activator, 0.2-5 parts of aromatic oil, 0.8-2.4 parts of zinc oxide, 0.3-1.2 parts of regenerating activator are added.
22. Liquid Phase Rubber Recycling via Solvent Swelling and Sequential Sulfide Bond Cleavage
Xuzhou Vocational College of Industrial Technology, XUZHOU COLLEGE OF INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY, 2022
A liquid phase method for recycling waste rubber that involves regenerating the rubber in a solvent instead of using high temperature and solid phase methods. The process involves swelling the rubber powder in an organic solvent and then reacting it with a regeneration activator. The solvent allows full swelling of the rubber particles, exposing the crosslinks for reaction. Ultrasonic stirring helps move the chains. The reaction steps are designed to sequentially break the polysulfide, disulfide, and monosulfide bonds in order. This prevents over-reaction and oxidation. The method provides better quality and yield of recycled rubber with improved properties.
23. System for Regenerating Vulcanized Rubber Using Sequential Conveyance and Friction Stir Heating
SUQIAN YUANTAI RUBBER MACHINERY TECH CO LTD, SUQIAN YUANTAI RUBBER MACHINERY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2021
A system for regenerating vulcanized rubber from waste rubber products to reclaim some of the material for further use. The system uses a sequence of conveyors, stirring, cooling, and de-crosslinking steps to break down the crosslinks and soften the rubber. This allows the recycled rubber to be reused in new products, reducing waste and conserving raw materials. The system avoids high temperatures and energy-intensive processes by using friction stir heating instead of direct heating.
24. Waste Rubber Pretreatment with Silica Nanoparticle Suspension for Controlled Desulfurization
QINGDAO UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, SHANDONG HEPENG TECH CO LTD, SHANDONG HEPENG TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2021
Waste rubber processing technology that improves the quality of recycled rubber by pretreating the waste rubber powder before desulfurization. The pretreatment involves spraying a suspension of silica nanoparticles onto the waste rubber powder. This forms C-Si bonds on the surface that buffer the desulfurization temperature and prevent excessive chain scission. It allows selective breaking of weaker bonds like SS and CS before the main chain C-C bonds. This avoids over-desulfurization that degrades the mechanical properties.
25. Continuous Rubber Regeneration System with Integrated Decrosslinking and Twin-Screw Desulfurization Extruder
Nantong Warrior Rubber Co., Ltd., Nanjing Kejin Rubber & Plastic Technology Co., Ltd., NANTONG HUILI RUBBER CO LTD, 2021
A continuous rubber regeneration system for waste tires that uses intelligent decrosslinking to improve the quality and yield of recycled rubber. The system uses a series of integrated modules for preheating, decrosslinking, kneading, cooling, and catalytic combustion. It features separate preheating zones with oil circulation, a twin-screw desulfurization extruder for decrosslinking, and a two-stage cooling system. The modules are connected in sequence to efficiently process and regenerate waste tire rubber into high-quality, odor-free rubber products.
26. Rubber Devulcanization Using Organic Acids in Nonpolar Solvent and Mineral Oil Suspension
INST TECNOLOGICO JOSE MARIO MOLINA PASQUEL Y HENRIQUEZ, INSTITUTO TECNOLOGICO JOSE MARIO MOLINA PASQUEL Y HENRIQUEZ, 2021
Devulcanization process for recycling rubber without degrading the properties, using organic acids in nonpolar solvents and mineral oils. The process involves grinding the rubber, adding a mixture of mineral oil and nonpolar solvent like toluene, xylene, or benzene, suspending thioglycolic acid, heating, separating the particles, and washing. This allows efficient devulcanization compared to high-temperature, high-pressure methods. The devulcanized rubber can then be used in applications where vulcanized rubber is required.
27. Rubber Devulcanization via Low Shear Extrusion and Controlled Kneading Process
CONTINENTAL REIFEN DEUTSCHLAND GMBH, 2021
Devulcanizing vulcanized rubber to recycle old tires without shortening the polymer chains. The method involves grinding the tire into small particles, extruding them at low shear rates to maintain chain length, cooling, and further kneading to complete devulcanization. The low shear extrusion prevents chain scission. The final step can involve filtering and heating.
28. Method for Reclaiming Vulcanized Rubber Using 3,6-Dioxa-1,8-Octane Dithiol as Cross-Linking Regenerating Agent
Beijing University of Chemical Technology, BEIJING UNIVERSITY OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY, 2021
A method to recycle vulcanized rubber from waste tires into usable rubber. The method involves dissolving the vulcanized rubber in a solvent, adding a regenerating agent called 3,6-Dioxa-1,8-octane dithiol, and then removing the solvent to obtain the reclaimed rubber. The regenerating agent breaks down the cross-links in the vulcanized rubber, allowing it to be reprocessed into new rubber products. The reclaimed rubber has similar properties to virgin rubber, like degree of cross-linking, molecular weight, and cross-linking density.
29. Process for Producing Rubber Granules from End-of-Life Tires via Shredding, Sieving, Grinding, and Thermal-Mechanical Reactor Treatment
ECOTYRE S C R L, ECOTYRE SCRL, 2021
A process to produce rubber granules from end-of-life tires suitable for devulcanization and recycling. The process involves shredding the tires, sieving the shreds to separate the rubber, and then grinding the rubber to the desired particle size. The ground rubber is then subjected to a thermal-mechanical reactor treatment to devulcanize and soften the rubber. This step involves heating and agitating the rubber to break the crosslinks and restore the polymer chains. The resulting devulcanized rubber granules can be used in new tire production or other applications. The process allows recycling of tires by converting the rubber into a reusable form without requiring extensive processing steps like vulcanization.
30. Low-Temperature Waste Rubber Regeneration Process with Specific Additives and Two-Step Mixer Configuration
Qingdao University of Science and Technology, QINGDAO UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, 2021
A low-temperature waste rubber regeneration process that improves the quality and efficiency of recycling waste rubber like used tires. The process uses specific additives and equipment configurations to regenerate the rubber at temperatures below 100°C. This avoids degradation from high heat and eliminates waste gases. The process involves mixing vegetable oil, esters, delinkers, activator, and accelerator in a two-step banbury mixer followed by shearing in a tandem internal mixer. The low-temperature regeneration improves tear strength and other properties compared to traditional high-temperature regeneration.
31. Sulfur-Crosslinked Rubber Devulcanization Using Alkali Metal Reaction in Oxygen-Free Environment
LEIBNIZ INST POLYMERFORSCHUNG DRESDEN EV, Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research Dresden e.V., 2021
Devulcanization of sulfur-crosslinked rubbers, in which the structure of the rubbers is essentially retained even during devulcanization. The devulcanization involves mixing sulfur-crosslinked vulcanized rubbers with an alkali metal to form a reaction mixture, heating the reaction mixture in the absence of oxygen, mixing at a temperature sufficient to allow the alkali metal to react with sulfur in the vulcanized rubber, Hold at this temperature and below the temperature at which thermal cracking of the rubber occurs.
32. Recycling Process for Multimaterial Products with Enhanced Devulcanization Machine Features
A FERREIRA & PEREIRA LDA, A FERREIRA & PEREIRA LDA BOLFLEX, 2021
A recycling process for materials like rubber, fabrics, leather, thermoplastics, polyurethane and nitrile rubbers that involves crushing, devulcanization, and refining to recycle isolated or combined recyclable materials from products like shoes, car interiors, and bags. The process steps include crushing the materials, extracting metals, devulcanizing the crushed materials at high pressure and temperature, refining the devulcanized materials, and coating the refined material in film. This allows recycling a wider range of materials like rubbers, fabrics, leather, thermoplastics, polyurethane, and nitrile rubbers compared to just recycling rubber. Improvements to the devulcanization machine like internal cooling pipes, double-sided sieves, and variable speed drives are made to optimize the process.
33. Agglomeration of Vulcanized Rubber Powder Using Asphalt Binder with Coacervating Styrene-Butadiene Polymer
GRISON ELYO CAETANO, GRISON ÉLYO CAETANO, LEMES JORGE ANTONIO, 2021
Recycling vulcanized rubber scraps from tire manufacturing and recycling to create a high-quality rubber product that preserves the properties of the original tire rubber. The process involves agglomerating the rubber powder using a binder with a coacervating polymer. The rubber powder is above 24 mesh size and can be obtained cryogenically or mechanically. The binder is an asphalt additive with styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). The agglomeration is done by mixing the rubber powder and binder in a cold mixer. The final yield is 1.5 kg binder to 3 kg rubber powder. The coacervation fixes and compacts the rubber powder into a dense, laminated product that maintains the original rubber properties.
34. Room-Temperature Rubber Recycling via Mechanical Force and Chemical Initiator-Induced Network Scission
SANHE GREAT WALL RUBBER CO LTD, 2020
Recycling waste rubber at room temperature without using high temperatures or pressure. The method involves using mechanical force and chemical initiators to break down the network structure of vulcanized rubber. The steps are: (1) Obtain 20-40 mesh rubber powder from broken tires. (2) Mix the powder with initiators like zinc naphthenate, thiol-based benzothiazole, stearic acid, and ethanolamine. (3) Process the mixture in a refiner at low speed to shear and break the rubber network. (4) Park the sheared rubber to allow further reduction reactions. The chemical initiators generate free radicals that scission the rubber chains. The mechanical force breaks the rubber network. This enables recycling of waste rubber without melting or high temperatures.
35. Mechanical Devulcanization of Crosslinked Elastomers Using Thiol-Containing Biological Catalyst
NEW RUBBER TECH HOLDINGS INC, NEW RUBBER TECHNOLOGIES HOLDINGS INC, 2020
Devulcanization method for recycling crosslinked elastomers like scrap rubber from molding operations. The method involves mechanically mixing the elastomer below 80°C in the presence of a biological catalyst containing thiol groups. The thiol catalyst helps break the vulcanized bonds in the elastomer without using toxic chemicals or harsh conditions.
36. Manual Shredding and Heating Method for Reclaimed Rubber Production from Waste Tires
SHANDONG LEADER SCIENCE AND TECH GROUP CO LTD, SHANDONG LEADER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD, 2020
A method to prepare reclaimed rubber from waste tires without using high-energy equipment like microwaves or radiation. The method involves manually shredding and grinding the waste tires into small pieces, followed by heating them in a mixer at 150-200°C for 30-60 minutes to break down the tire rubber. Antioxidants and oils are added during the heating process to improve the quality of the reclaimed rubber. The shredded and reground tires can also be added as an additive to virgin rubber during compounding. This manual processing method allows for scalable and cost-effective production of reclaimed rubber from waste tires without requiring specialized equipment.
37. Continuous Rubber Devulcanization Process Using Copper Salts and Catalytic Carbon-Sulfur Bond Cleavage
ALERTA PLATEIA LDA, 2020
A continuous process for devulcanizing rubber to recycle waste rubber without significant loss of properties. The process involves sequestering sulfur from the rubber chains using copper salts and breaking the carbon-sulfur bonds using catalysts. This allows selective breakdown of the crosslink points without breaking the main chain carbon bonds. The process is continuous and aims for devulcanization levels of around 70%. The sequestered sulfur can be recovered for reuse.
38. Rubber Devulcanization Composition with Selective Desulfurizer and Compatibilizer
RUBBINTEC LLC, 2020
A composition and method for devulcanizing rubber using a selective desulfurizer that can regenerate used rubber products without significantly degrading the polymer chains. The composition contains a desulfurizing agent like 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]ten^ One carbon-7-ene (DBU) along with a compatibilizing agent that helps the desulfurizer penetrate the rubber. The weight ratio of DBU to a triphenylphosphonium (TPP) compound is 5:1 to 1:5. This mixture selectively destroys sulfur bonds in the rubber while minimally affecting the polymer chain bonds. The compatibilizer ensures effective penetration of the desulfurizer into the rubber. The composition allows using low concentrations of desulfurizer without premature vulcanization during processing.
39. Reclaimed Rubber Production via Additive-Free Tall Oil Desulfurization Process
JIANGSU REBUER ECO FACILITIES CO LTD, 2019
Preparing reclaimed rubber without adding any additives in the desulfurization process to create environmentally friendly, odorless rubber. The method involves desulfurizing waste tire rubber using tall oil as a plant-based softener instead of toxic activators. The desulfurization is done at lower temperature and pressure compared to traditional methods to reduce pollution. This avoids generating harmful gases like benzene and phenol. The resulting reclaimed rubber has comparable properties to natural rubber without the need for additional additives.
40. Tire Recycling Process Using Supercritical Hydrocarbon Pyrolysis and Induction Heating
WARREN Z MCCARTHY, 2019
Recycling used tires into reusable components by breaking down the vulcanized rubber and extracting the steel belts. The process involves heating the tires in the presence of a supercritical hydrocarbon reactant like butene to pyrolyze the rubber. This breaks the carbon bonds and crosslinks to release hydrocarbons. A caustic agent removes contaminants like heavy metals and carcinogens. Induction heating the steel belts provides additional energy. Rapid depressurization tears the tire apart. This complete and rapid recycling eliminates hazardous tire waste.
41. Recycling Method for Automobile Rubber Parts Using Modified Aluminum Nitride Composite Filler with Nano-Titanium Dioxide and Silicon Oxide
LI XIUYING, 2019
Method for recycling automobile rubber parts like tires, seals, and components, that enhances the recycled rubber properties to improve reuse and reduce environmental impact compared to incineration or landfill. The recycling process involves cleaning the rubber parts, crushing them into small pieces, and then adding a specially formulated reinforcing material to the ground rubber during compounding. The reinforcing material is a composite powder made of aluminum oxide and mica, which is processed into a modified aluminum nitride composite powder. This composite filler is dispersed into the recycled rubber during compounding, providing enhanced mechanical properties and bonding to the rubber matrix. The modified aluminum nitride composite filler contains nano-titanium dioxide and silicon oxide, which improves interface bonding between the filler and rubber.
42. Mechanochemical Devulcanization of Waste Tire Rubber Using Nickel-Cyclooctadiene Catalyst
UNIV MEXICO NAC AUTONOMA, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 2019
Mechanochemical method of devulcanizing rubber from waste tires using a catalyst containing nickel and cyclooctadiene ligands. The method involves grinding the tire rubber into chips, heating it in the presence of hydrogen gas, and using the catalyst to break the sulfur bonds in the vulcanized rubber. The catalyst activates in the hydrogen atmosphere and facilitates hydrogen transfer to the rubber, causing devulcanization. The process allows regeneration of the rubber for reuse instead of landfilling or incineration.
43. Process for Recycling Vulcanized Rubber via Thermal-Mechanical Fragmentation and Non-Crosslinking Grafting
RIJKSUNIVERSITEIT GRONINGEN, 2019
Recycling of used rubber products, particularly ground tire rubber (GTR), into high quality recycled rubber for reuse in new products. The process involves disrupting the rubber network of vulcanized rubber to fragments by heating to 200-300°C and mechanical stress. Then, reconstituting the fragments by reacting with a non-crosslinking branching/grafting agent to avoid further crosslinking. This allows tuning the viscosity of the recycled rubber without significantly affecting the soluble fraction. The resulting reclaimed rubber has high solubility and low crosslinking density compared to the original rubber.
44. Process for Recycling Waste Tires via Sulfur-Content-Based Desulfurization and Devulcanization Steps
YU YANHONG, 2019
An environmentally friendly process for recycling waste tires into usable rubber. The process involves separating the rubber from the metal in the tires, then desulfurizing and devulcanizing the rubber in steps based on sulfur content. This improves the desulfurization efficiency and allows more efficient processing of tires with varying sulfur levels. The steps include medium temperature separation, high temperature separation, mechanical rolling, RV desulfurization, and vibration separation.
45. De-vulcanization Process for Vulcanized Rubber Using Shear Force and Butadiene/Styrene Copolymer
RECA BLEND KFT, 2019
Recycling of vulcanized rubber products like tires by de-vulcanizing and then reusing the rubber. The process involves exposing ground rubber from recycled tires to a shear force of 15-25 MPa in the presence of a weak base and butadiene/styrene copolymer. This breaks down the vulcanization bonds and allows the rubber to be reprocessed. The resulting re-vulcanizable composition can be used to make new tires or other rubber products.
46. Sequential Apparatus for Reclaimed Rubber Production from Waste Tires
Zhejiang Lingzheng Environmental Protection Technology Co., Ltd., 2019
System for making reclaimed rubber using waste tires that efficiently extracts and processes the rubber components. The system involves a series of machines connected in sequence: tire ring cutter, tire crusher, rubber block shredder, magnetic separator, fiber separator, mill, air separator, and desulfurization refiner. This allows separating and purifying the rubber from the steel and other contaminants in the tires, resulting in high-quality reclaimed rubber.
47. Additive-Assisted Method for Reclaimed Rubber Production Using Specific Additive Composition and Low-Temperature Processing
Beijing Rubber Industry Research and Design Institute Co., Ltd., 2019
A low energy, environmentally friendly method for producing reclaimed rubber from waste rubber powder. The method involves using a specific composition of additives and processing conditions that allows regeneration of vulcanized rubber without high temperatures and pressures. The additives are a swelling agent, bispentamethylene thiuram tetrasulfide activator, nano zinc oxide, and polyethylene glycol. The ratios of these additives are 100:0.3-2:8-15:1-3:0.1-0.5 parts, respectively. The reclaimed rubber is produced by homogenizing the waste rubber powder with these additives and then activating and regenerating it on a rubber mixing machine. This low energy, additive-assisted method avoids the high temperatures and pollution issues of traditional reclaimed rubber production methods.
48. Process for Producing Reclaimed Rubber with Shortened Desulfurization and Softening Agent Integration
Jiangsu Jinlun Rubber Co., Ltd., 2019
A more efficient and energy-saving process for producing fine reclaimed rubber from used tires. The process involves shorter desulfurization time and lower energy consumption compared to traditional methods. The steps are: 1) Pulverizing the tire rubber to a specific size. 2) Desulfurization for 2-3 hours instead of the usual 6 hours. 3) Adding a softening agent like paraffin oil to the desulfurized rubber. 4) Re-milling the rubber with the softening agent. 5) Further refining and compounding the reclaimed rubber as needed. The shorter desulfurization time and softening agent allow producing fine reclaimed rubber with lower energy consumption and shorter processing time compared to traditional methods.
49. Process for Producing Fine Tread Rubber Powder from Waste Tires with Desulfurization and Thin-Sheeting Steps
Jiangsu Jinlun Rubber Co., Ltd., 2019
A process to efficiently produce high quality fine tread rubber powder from waste tires. The process involves inspecting tire treads, removing non-tread rubber and impurities, crushing to 30 mesh size, desulfurization, kneading, thin-sheeting, and refining to produce the fine powder. The desulfurization is done at high temperature, pressure, and short time to minimize degradation. The kneading and thin-sheeting steps improve the powder quality.
50. Rubber Recycling Process with Selective Devulcanization via Shear Mixing at Controlled Temperatures
TYREC LTD, 2018
A process for recycling rubber that converts pulverized rubber into a recycled rubber masterbatch (reMB) with improved green strength and building tack. The process involves shear mixing the pulverized rubber, thermoplastic resin, antidegradant, and green strength enhancer at a temperature to destabilize sulfidic bonds but below cracking temperature. This selectively devulcanizes the rubber without depolymerizing the backbone. The reMB can then be used as a component in recycled thermoplastic dynamically post-vulcanized rubber (reTPV) compositions. The reMB and reTPV have properties similar to virgin rubber.
Get Full Report
Access our comprehensive collection of 81 documents related to this technology
Identify Key Areas of Innovation in 2025

