Optimization of the Tyromer De-Vulcanization Process for the Development of New Products from Waste Rubber

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The automotive component industry contributes significantly to the economy of Ontario. The automotive sector is seeking higher recycled content in non-critical components. EPDM is a key rubber polymer used in automotive components and the Tyromer rubber de-vulcanization has been demonstrated to be capable of de-vulcanizing scrap EPDM for reuse in component manufacturing. Tyromer Inc.'s company focus is dedicated to reusing the vast quantities of used rubber. Tyromer was established to commercialize a rubber de-vulcanization technology invented by Professor Costas Tzoganakis of the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo. In the production of automotive seals and components, a large volume of EPDM production scrap is generated. There has been no simple option to manage this waste. Unlike scrap tires, recyclers do not get gate fees from collecting EPDM, so recycling of EPDM is not "subsidized". Grinding of EPDM production scrap is a significant cost that must be overcome by the higher value of the recycled product. De-vulcanization has the potential to create a high value product that can be reused in production cost effectively, thereby providing a close-loop manufacturing option. In partnership with Lambton College's Centre for Industrial Material Development (CIMD), the proposed project aims to develop a rubber product from de-vulcanized waste rubber using Tyromer's de-vulcanization process. Success of the project will provide an overarching sustainable benefit to Canada. Tyromer will benefit from the scientific and technical advances arising from this collaboration by being able to further develop fundamental understanding and technology to increase the conversion of rubber waste and apply the new technology to manufacture new rubber products from de-vulcanized waste rubber. This is relevant because the company will provide a new technology that will help to close the circular economy in the rubber market and advance an Ontario born technology. Access to this technology will enable Tyromer to jump ahead in the market and provide a solution to the issue of rubber recycling.