Pyrum Innovations AG is all set to commence construction on a tyre pyrolysis plant in Vřesová, the Czech Republic, in partnership with the SUAS GROUP and Sokolovská uhelná. The construction work will start in the second quarter of 2025 and the completion is targeted for 2027.

Pyrum and SUAS GROUP will establish a joint venture for the joint construction and operation of the plant. Pyrum will purchase a 49 percent share in the business. Existing loan framework agreements cover Pyrum's stake in the project. The Czech businesses intend to incorporate the gas generated during thermolysis into the current plant for further use and to take use of the synergy effects on site. Each year, 23,000 tonnes of end-of-life tyres will be transformed into useful materials by the proposed operation. An estimated EUR 57 million will be invested in the project.

Martin Čermák, Board Member of SUAS GROUP and Sokolovská uhelná, said, “We are among the first companies in the world to utilise this innovative technology within our industrial complex in Vřesová. The site has the necessary infrastructure not only for the facility’s construction but also for utilising the gas produced during pyrolysis, which is rich in hydrogen and methane. The technology is extremely environmentally friendly, as confirmed by the recently completed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Among other benefits, the project as a whole, significantly reduces the carbon footprint – by more than 18,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.”

David Najvar, Chairman of the Board of SUAS GROUP, said, “We greatly appreciate that Pyrum Innovations AG, the holder of this revolutionary patent with experience in similar projects across the EU, has become our partner. Together, we are fulfilling the vision of developing a circular economy and sustainability in handling specific types of waste and their disposal within our region and the Czech Republic.”

Pascal Klein, CEO, Pyrum Innovations AG, said, “The collaboration with the SUAS GROUP represents further progress for the development of the circular economy in Europe. This project demonstrates the high adaptability of our technology. Thanks to the efficient use of the gas on site, the end-of-life tyres can be almost completely recycled. Even though each site has individual potentials and designs, the core of our technology remains constant. We are looking forward on a very successful partnership and to the next phase of our collaboration, realising the joint plant at the new site.”

Datwyler, a leading provider of high-quality, system-critical elastomer component, has joined the Circular Rubber Platform to strengthen its commitment to a more sustainable circular economy in the elastomer industry.

The Circular Rubber Platform unites elastomer firms to promote the use of sustainable materials and creative recycling techniques. The portal has expanded to include three universities and 81 companies since its launch in October 2023. Datwyler is strengthening its commitment to using more sustainable raw materials, whether bio-based or recycled, and reducing its carbon footprint by producing elastomers in a more ecologically friendly manner as a result of its membership.

Datwyler is stepping up its efforts to actively support sustainability in the elastomer sector by joining the Circular Rubber Platform. The business has always been dedicated to social and environmental responsibility, and for the past 17 years, it has been releasing sustainability reports in accordance with the globally accepted Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard. The company's progress in the environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) key areas is detailed in the full sustainability report for 2024.

Orion S.A., a global speciality chemicals company, has been recognised as a ‘Key Innovator’ by the European Commission's 'Innovation Radar’ website, which identifies high-potential innovators that have done EU-funded research, for being the first company to produce circular carbon black from 100 percent pyrolysis oil from end-of-life tyres.

The circular carbon black was created by Orion as a collaborator on the EU-funded BlackCycle project (Horizon 2020 programme under grant agreement No: 869625). The material is ready for the market as a substitute to carbon black derived from fossil fuels. The goal of the Michelin-led, award-winning BlackCycle effort was to develop innovative methods for creating new tyres from used tyres. It involved five research and technology organisations as well as seven industry partners.

Last year, Orion also started its ‘Clean Carbon Black Research and Development Project’, which was made possible by a EUR 6.4 million funding from the European Union and the German Government. The goal of the project is to create a method for making carbon black from alternative carbon sources that is climate neutral.

Corning Painter, CEO, Orion, said, “Driving circularity is part of Orion’s long-term strategy. Our customers are increasingly relying on us to provide solutions to meet the growing demand for circular products. We are scaling up our capabilities to process tyre pyrolysis oil and have other innovations in our sustainability pipeline focused on cost-effective solutions.”

Natalia Scherbakoff, CTO, Orion, said, “Although the BlackCycle project has concluded, our innovation work continues with other initiatives with circular carbon black that involve reducing our carbon footprint, improving yield and throughput and potentially lowering material costs.”

The global demand for efficiency and precision in tyre manufacturing has reached unprecedented levels, and VIPO a.s., a pioneer in advanced bead winding technology, has delivered a game-changing solution: the LIHEXAL 8 – octuple head single wire bead winding machine (production of 8 beads per cycle). Designed specifically for the production of PCR (Personal Car Radial) tyres, this latest innovation epitomises cutting-edge research and development, coupled with decades of expertise in rubber and wire applications.

A LEAP FORWARD IN BEAD MANUFACTURING

The LIHEXAL 8 sets a new benchmark for bead winding machines, enabling the simultaneous production of up to eight beads per cycle. This state-of-the-art machine accommodates bead diameters ranging from 13” to 24.5” and cross-sections in both hexagonal and rectangular profiles.

The latest model of VIPO’s bead winding machine significantly reduces production time while maintaining consistent quality. The result is an increased beads output, minimised downtime and improved profitability for tyre manufacturers around the globe.

INNOVATION AT EVERY STEP

The LIHEXAL 8 redefines bead production with cutting-edge sensing and automation technologies. It offers real-time monitoring of material levels and predictive maintenance, ensuring seamless operations. Precision is at its core, measuring key variables like wire temperature, rubberisation and other parameters to guarantee beads of impeccable quality. Its advanced festooner system with independent pulleys allows precise control of wire tension and pressure, adapting effortlessly to unique production needs. Meanwhile, the upgraded bead winding station delivers unparalleled accuracy and speed, producing one bead every two seconds with flawless consistency.

VIPO’s innovations go beyond speed – they deliver reliability. With every cycle, manufacturers achieve premium-quality beads, securing their competitive advantage in the tyre industry.

GROUNDBREAKING WRAPPING TECHNOLOGY

One of the most notable features of the LIHEXAL 8 is its integrated bead wrapping system. In collaboration with the world’s best wrapping tapes suppliers, VIPO has developed a high-performance wrapping solution that applies tape to bead ends simultaneously without affecting the machine’s cycle time. With a machine autonomy and real-time verification of tape application, this system guarantees optimal quality and consistency.

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Rooted in the legacy of Tomáš Bata’s historic town, VIPO a.s. has been at the forefront of rubber and wire technology for over 50 years. Combining generational expertise with cutting-edge innovation, VIPO proudly serves the world’s leading tyre manufacturers – partners who trust its solutions to deliver excellence. This enduring trust drives VIPO to continuously push the boundaries of innovation, with gratitude to its customers as the foundation of its success.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, UNMATCHED RELIABILITY

From installation and training to continuous support and machine optimisation, VIPO ensures that clients harness the full potential of the LIHEXAL 8. This exceptional level of service, combined with the machine’s unparalleled performance, makes it a cornerstone for modern, efficient and premium tyre manufacturing. Moreover, the LIHEXAL 8’s unmatched reliability and advanced automation significantly reduce human intervention, paving the way for streamlined operations and optimised production workflows.

WHY EVERY TYRE MANUFACTURER NEEDS THE LIHEXAL 8

The LIHEXAL 8 isn’t just a machine – it’s a revolution in tyre manufacturing. With precision, flexibility and speed, it meets the demand for high-quality beads while driving down costs and enhancing efficiency. Designed to adapt to each customer’s unique needs, it’s the ultimate solution for modern production challenges.

More than a supplier, VIPO is the trusted partner and committed to its clients’ success. The LIHEXAL 8, as well as the other VIPO equipment and services isn’t just about transforming production – it’s about empowering your business to lead in a competitive market.

CarbonX has been selected for the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator grant. The allocated funding includes a EUR 2.5 million grant and EUR 5 million equity package to accelerate product development and market expansion.

In the most competitive funding round to date, CarbonX was selected from 71 top firms out of 1,211 submissions. This accomplishment demonstrates CarbonX's state-of-the-art technology, commercial maturity and dedication to sustainability. It also represents a major turning point in the company's goal to transform the supply of active anode materials in Europe, thereby solidifying its role in replacing graphite in Europe within the automotive battery green technology sector.

Rutger van Raalten, CEO, CarbonX, said, “I am very proud of this accomplishment, successfully coming through a tough application process and completing rigorous due diligence – this is great validation of our technology and demonstrates a complete product offering at the right price. With support of the EIC, we will accelerate the realisation of a fully independent European supply chain for critical battery materials.”