Waste tires are one of the most challenging solid wastes due to their durability, high volume, and complex composition. Tire pyrolysis has emerged as an effective and resource-efficient solution, converting end-of-life tires into valuable products instead of landfill or incineration. But what exactly do these products do? Let’s take a closer look at the real value behind tire pyrolysis oil, recovered carbon black, and steel wire.
Pyrolysis oil, also known as tire-derived oil (TDO), is a dark liquid produced when rubber polymers are thermally decomposed in an oxygen-free environment. It typically accounts for 40–50% of the total output.
Due to its high calorific value, pyrolysis oil can be used as:
With further distillation and upgrading, pyrolysis oil can be separated into fractions similar to diesel, heavy oil, or aromatic chemicals. This opens pathways for its use as a petrochemical feedstock, reducing reliance on fossil crude oil.
Recovered carbon black (rCB) is the solid residue left after pyrolysis, typically making up 30–40% of the output. While often mistaken for low-value waste, rCB has significant industrial potential.
After grinding and surface modification, rCB can partially replace virgin carbon black in:
Although its performance may differ from commercial grades, rCB offers cost and sustainability advantages.
Recovered carbon black is also widely used as:
Modern tires contain 10–15% steel wire, which remains largely intact during the pyrolysis process. This steel can be efficiently separated using magnetic systems.
Recovered steel wire can be directly sold as scrap metal and reintroduced into steelmaking processes. Its high purity makes it especially attractive to recyclers.
Recycling tire steel reduces the demand for virgin iron ore and lowers energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with primary steel production.
The true strength of tire pyrolysis lies in its multi-product recovery model. By optimizing reactor design, process parameters, and downstream upgrading, operators can:
This integrated approach transforms waste tires from an environmental burden into a reliable resource stream.
Waste tyre pyrolysis plant is far more than a waste treatment technology—it is a resource recovery platform.
Pyrolysis oil provides alternative energy and chemical feedstocks, recovered carbon black supports sustainable
manufacturing, and steel wire completes the recycling loop.
Understanding the real applications of these products is key to evaluating the economic and environmental value of tire pyrolysis projects in a circular economy.