As the world searches for effective solutions to reduce waste and promote resource recovery, tire pyrolysis has become a promising technology. Every year, millions of waste tires are generated worldwide, many of which end up in landfills or are burned illegally, causing serious environmental pollution. Pyrolysis offers a cleaner and more sustainable alternative by converting discarded tires into valuable products such as pyrolysis oil, carbon black, steel wire, and syngas. These materials can be used across multiple industries, making tire pyrolysis both environmentally responsible and economically viable.
This article explores the main applications of each pyrolysis product and explains why the technology has gained strong momentum globally.
One of the most valuable outputs of tire pyrolysis is pyrolysis oil, also known as tire-derived oil (TDO). This dark, viscous liquid contains hydrocarbons similar to those found in diesel and heavy fuel oil. Its versatility makes it one of the most sought-after products of the tire pyrolysis machine.
Fuel for industrial boilers and furnaces: Pyrolysis oil can be used directly as a heating fuel in industries such as cement, steel, glass, and brick manufacturing. Its high calorific value allows it to replace conventional fuels like diesel or heavy oil, helping businesses reduce operational costs.
Raw material for chemical processing: After further refining, pyrolysis oil can serve as a chemical feedstock. It can be upgraded into diesel-like fuel, marine oil, or even used in the production of new chemical compounds. With advances in refining technology, the potential of pyrolysis oil in chemical industries continues to grow.
Electricity generation: In regions where grid access is limited, pyrolysis oil can power generators to produce electricity. This application is especially useful for remote communities or small factories seeking energy independence.
Carbon black accounts for a significant portion of the solid residues from tire pyrolysis. Originally found in tire rubber as a reinforcing agent, recovered carbon black (rCB) has numerous practical uses after proper milling and purification.
Rubber and tire manufacturing: Although rCB may not fully replace high-grade commercial carbon black, it can be blended with virgin materials in the production of new tires, rubber hoses, seals, and conveyor belts. This helps manufacturers lower costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
Plastic and pigment production: rCB can be incorporated into plastics to improve durability, color, and UV resistance. It also works as a black pigment in inks, paints, coatings, and colorants.
Soil improvement and environmental uses: Certain grades of rCB can be processed into biochar-like material. When used in agriculture, it enhances soil structure, increases water retention, and contributes to carbon sequestration, supporting sustainable farming practices.
Tires contain approximately 10–15% steel, used to reinforce their structure. During pyrolysis, this steel can be recovered in a clean form and sold as a valuable scrap material.
Recycling into new steel products: Recovered steel can be melted down to produce construction materials, machinery components, tools, and industrial parts. Because it is high-quality steel, its recycling value is significant.
Reduced demand for virgin steel: Using recycled steel reduces energy consumption and emissions associated with producing steel from raw ore, contributing to a more circular economy.
Syngas, or synthetic gas, is another important byproduct of tire pyrolysis. Composed mainly of hydrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide, syngas has strong heating properties.
Powering the pyrolysis plant: Most pyrolysis facilities use syngas internally to heat the reactor, effectively reducing external fuel consumption. This self-sustaining feature makes the pyrolysis process more energy efficient and cost-effective.
Potential use in electricity and heat generation: Excess syngas can be routed to gas generators or boilers to produce electricity or thermal energy. This makes the plant more economical and reduces waste.
Tire pyrolysis presents a compelling solution for both waste management and industrial resource recovery. Pyrolysis oil serves as a versatile fuel and chemical feedstock; carbon black finds applications in rubber, plastics, pigments, and agriculture; steel wire contributes to the metal recycling industry; and syngas provides clean energy for plant operations. With rising global interest in sustainability and circular economy models, the demand for pyrolysis technologies is expected to grow steadily.
By transforming discarded tires into valuable products, pyrolysis not only minimizes environmental impact but also unlocks significant economic opportunities—making it a powerful tool for a greener future.