Invention Title:

SUSTAINABLE TIRE PRODUCED WITH HIGH RECYCLED/RENEWABLE RAW MATERIAL CONTENT

Publication number:

US20240326513

Publication date:
Section:

Performing operations; transporting

Class:

B60C1/00

Inventors:

Applicant:

Smart overview of the Invention

A pneumatic tire can be produced using over 89% sustainable materials, specifically in non-ground contacting components. The sustainable materials include bio-renewable organic substances, with at least 40% of the organic content verifiable through radiocarbon dating methods. An innovative feature of this tire is the inclusion of an RFID tag on the innerliner, which indicates the proportion of bio-renewable materials used in its construction.

Environmental Considerations

The design focuses on using raw materials that significantly reduce carbon emissions and resource consumption. The tire aims to meet consumer demands for environmentally friendly products without sacrificing performance. By utilizing sustainable materials, the tire can provide comparable or enhanced performance relative to traditional tires while appealing to eco-conscious consumers willing to invest in sustainable options.

Performance and Material Specifications

  • The tire's composition includes over 85% sustainable content, exceeding conventional tires that contain less than 20%.
  • Reinforcements in the tire can consist of over 65% sustainable materials, such as bio-derived polyamide.
  • The liner can achieve greater than 35% sustainable content, significantly higher than the conventional liner's 0.5%.
  • Belt and bead wires can also contain over 85% sustainable materials, contributing substantially to the overall renewable content.
  • Gum strips may exceed 89% sustainable content compared to the conventional level of 27.5%.

Consumer Demand for Sustainable Products

There is a growing consumer preference for products made from recycled, renewable, and bio-based materials. Many consumers are willing to pay a premium for such items, which has driven manufacturers to seek sustainable alternatives in their offerings. The ability to verify the sustainable content through labeling can enhance consumer trust and willingness to purchase these environmentally friendly tires.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite the advancements in creating a sustainable tire, challenges remain regarding performance characteristics such as durability and traction. Continuous research is necessary to ensure that these tires not only meet sustainability goals but also perform effectively in various driving conditions. As technology evolves, the goal is to make fully sustainable tires commercially viable and widely available in the market.