The Leading Journal for the Tyre Recycling Sector

The Leading Journal for the Tyre Recycling Sector

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Hi-Green Carbon Expanding its Operations

Hi-Green Carbon Ltd., specialises in processing waste hydrocarbons (ELT) to produce valuable products like recovered carbon black

With 15 years of experience in the field, they are proud to have been operating one of the largest single reactors of 100 TPD continuous processing plant at Bhilwara, Rajasthan for the last 12 (Twelve) years.

To ensure exceptional quality, Hi-Green Carbon only process carefully sorted and selected high-quality crumb rubber in the presence of chemical accelerators. The recovered carbon black produced at their facility undergoes a rigorous multi-stage process involving high temperatures, process time control followed by pelletising, drying and packaging. Hi-Green’s rCB is gaining recognition in India as a key product in creating a circular economy and promoting green manufacturing solutions.

Hi-Green Carbon plant

In addition to producing recovered carbon black, Hi-Green Carbon also generates valuable byproducts such as fuel oil, steel, and flue gas through their waste hydrocarbon processing. They have implemented innovative technology that harnesses this waste process heat to generate electricity for the plant, and support their sodium silicate manufacturing process. This integrated approach allows Hi-Green Carbon to optimise resource utilisation, minimise waste, and further contribute to sustainable practices in their operations.

In response to the anticipated strong future demand, Hi-Green Carbon has strategically decided to expand its production capacity of recovered carbon black (rCB) by investing in new production units at multiple locations in India. The second unit near Dhule in Maharashtra state, is currently underway and is expected to be in operation by the end of October 2024.

Furthermore, a third unit in Dhar District, in Madhya Pradesh state is currently under construction and will be completed by the end of 2025.

These new plants will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure energy-efficient production, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions and a more sustainable manufacturing process. This expansion will enable Hi-Green Carbon to achieve an impressive ELT processing capacity of 300 TPD.

The cumulative capacity for ELT processing will reach 90,000 MT annually, with an rCB production capacity of 31,500 MT per year, positioning them as one of the global leaders in the development and production of innovative, high-performance rCB that meets the demanding requirements of their customers.

This state-of-the-art technology used by Hi-Green Carbon Limited has been procured from the Radhe Group of Energy, a company with over 30 years of expertise in the field. Radhe Group is a pioneer in the design, development, and manufacture of advanced technologies, including coal/biomass-based gasification systems, fluidised bed hot air generators, CO generation systems, power generation through gasification, waste heat recovery systems, and its ELT/plastic recycling pyrolysis technology. Radhe’s in-house developed ELT/plastic pyrolysis technology is fully 100 per cent automated using SCADA and is highly energy efficient.

Birla Carbon Announces First Asian Post Treatment Plant

The Birla state-of-the-art plant will provide specialty products for the coatings and inks markets from India

Birla Carbon, has announced the launch of its first Asia Post Treatment (APT) Plant in India. The brownfield initiative is located at the Patalganga unit, in the state of Maharashtra, Indiahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra. This cutting-edge facility, equipped with the latest treatment technology, is set to revolutionize the carbon black industry by offering the highest levels of flexibility, efficiency, and precision. The plant will serve the fast-growing demand for high-performance carbon black grades in key industries like coatings and inks.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Rajeev Sonthalia, Director, Birla Carbon, said; “The launch of the Asia Post-Treatment Plant at Patalganga marks a significant milestone in Birla Carbon’s journey toward creating and deploying cutting-edge technology solutions for our customers. Asia is an emerging market for the carbon black industry and the strategic location of this plant will encourage innovation with our partners.” He further added, “This brownfield facility will enable Birla Carbon to leverage its global reactor capabilities, operating at the highest yields and efficiency. The precision in the manufacturing technology ensures that our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance, catering to the specific needs of our diverse customers, both regionally and globally. And by doing so, we enrich the lives of our consumers and inspire trust with our partners.”

The Asia Post Treatment Plant facility’s advanced technology ensures precise control over reaction times, facilitating the production of ultra-high-performance grades that are tailored to specific customer needs. With its ability to meet stringent clean product standards, the APT facility offers a distinct advantage over traditional products, positioning Birla Carbon as a market leader in delivering sustainable, high-quality solutions.

Sharing his thoughts on this new milestone, John Loudermilk, President and Chief Executive Officer, Birla Carbon, said; “The launch of our Asia Post Treatment Plant reflects our long-term commitment towards the industry and the businesses we serve. This facility enables us to support our customers more effectively while reinforcing Birla Carbon’s position as a thought leader in developing sustainable, high-performance carbon-based solutions for the future.” He further added; “This treatment facility strengthens our commitment to meeting global demand in high-growth sectors and leading the carbon black industry towards greater sustainability and efficiency. By prioritising innovation and sustainability in every aspect of our operations, we are not just responding to current needs; we are anticipating future demand and setting new standards for quality, reliability, and environmental responsibility. Thus, living our purpose to ‘Share the Strength’”.

In addition to its broader range of applications, including packaging inks and automotive and industrial coatings, the ATP facility is strategically designed to tap into niche markets such as toys and tool coatings, where the demand for low PAH products is rapidly growing.

Tthe plant provides key advantages such as proximity to emerging Asian markets. It serves as a key backup to Birla Carbon’s North Bend facility in the USA.

Continental Wins Sustainability Accolade at NTDA Tyre Industry Awards 2024

Continental Tyres has been awarded “Tyre Industry Environmental and Sustainable Solution of the Year” at the prestigious National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) Tyre Industry Awards 2024

The award, presented at the Association’s 94th Annual Dinner, was decided by a panel of industry experts and recognises outstanding corporate social responsibility within the tyre industry.

Beating off competition from Bridgestone, Hankook, Marangoni and Michelin Tyres, the award reflects the tyre manufactures ongoing commitment to driving sustainability across all of its operations – from enhancing the efficiency of its manufacturing processes and supply chain to developing innovative, eco-friendly materials.

Commenting on Continental’s win NTDA CEO Stefan Hay said; “The judges felt that in a fiercely contested category, the Continental award entry stood out against the four other excellent entries because of the highly demonstrable progress it is now making towards achieving its ambitious mission to become the world’s most progressive tyre manufacturer in terms of environmental and social responsibility through its highly strategic ‘Group Sustainability Ambitions’ initiative.

“It is clear, that Continental’s approach is not only yielding results, but also shows that its strategy is becoming a reality across the entire business and that the initiative is putting Continental in a thought leadership role when it comes to ESG.”

Pete Robb, Marketing Director at Continental, said; “Every tyre that leaves our production line reflects our dedication to delivering the best performance, innovation, and safety – and we’re committed to ensuring this approach is executed as sustainably as possible. It’s an honour to be recognised by the NTDA for our ongoing efforts to innovate in this area, and truly reflects the hard work and dedication of our teams.”

The recognition follows Continental taking home ‘Tyre Manufacturer of the Year’ at the NTDA Tyre Industry Awards in 2023.

Gradeall Focus on the OTR Tyre Problem

Gradeall, a market leader in waste tyre management, is taking significant strides in the industry with their latest developments the OTR Splitter and OTR Sidewall Cutter

Best known for their renowned MK2 tyre baler and sidewall cutter machines, Gradeall is now addressing the challenges posed by massive Off-The-Road (OTR) tyres.

For years, these enormous tyres have been a significant challenge in waste management due to their size, weight, and difficulty in disposal. However, Gradeall is providing a much-needed solution. Conor Murphy, Director from Gradeall, proudly shares; “These machines are the result of five years of dedicated research and development. We have created a reliable, user-friendly method to downsize these large tyres, responding to the demands of our customers and enhancing our existing tyre recycling range.”

The latest iterations of these OTR machines can now deal with tyres up to 2.2m in outside diameter and up to 1m in width which covers the majority of commonly used OTR tyres.

The OTR Tyre Processing Journey

Gradeall OTR Tyre Splitter

The first step in this process involves the OTR Splitter. Tyres are placed on a precision-engineered, toughened steel idler wheel, which hydraulically lifts the tyre into a rotating cutting blade. This blade, also powered by hydraulics, makes multiple passes around the tyre’s circumference, splitting it in half within approximately one minute. The resulting halves are easily removed from the machine using a forklift.

Gradeall OTR Sidewall Cutter

These tyre halves are then moved to the OTR Sidewall Cutter, an enhanced version of Gradeall’s well-regarded Truck & Agricultural tyre sidewall cutter. The hydraulic arm lifts the tyre to a cutting wheel that separates the sidewall from the tread, taking about a minute per tyre half. This process results in each tyre being cut into four manageable pieces: two sidewalls and two tread sections.


By processing OTR tyres through these machines, over 50 per cent of the original space required for storage and transport is saved, drastically reducing costs. The processed tyres are also easier to handle and are primed for further recycling methods such as baling or shredding, turning what was once a logistical nightmare into a manageable process.


Efficiency, Space, and Cost Savings

Gradeall has successfully exported these machines to over 12 countries, and customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Clients appreciate the effectiveness of these machines in solving a previously insurmountable problem, reinforcing Gradeall’s commitment to continuous innovation and improvement.

New CFO for Enviro

Scandinavian Enviro Systems appointed Fredrik Aaben as new CFO

Fredrik Aaben, new CFO of Enviro

Fredrik Aaben joins Enviro from his role of Head of Corporate Finance at Volvo Cars, where he has a long-standing background of managerial positions in finance, M&A and strategy.

Aaben will take up his position in November 2024 and will work in parallel with the current interim CFO Christian Bergaust for a transitional period.

Aaben has a long-standing background at Volvo Cars that has included developing the company’s Corporate Finance department and, as Head of Corporate Finance, he was responsible for a diverse range of activities including M&A, raising capital and group capital structure issues.

Aaben was also involved in the IPO of Volvo Cars as well as the SPAC listing of its subsidiary Polestar.

Aaben holds an M.Sc. in Management and Economics of Innovation from Chalmers University of Technology.

CM Establishes UK and European Presence

Shred-Tech has expanded capabilities and global presence with the acquisition of CM Shredders by parent The Heico companies. With the change in ownership comes a change in business direction

CM Shredders have long held a strong reputation as being amongst the best in the business. Designed to clean steel and leave wire free rubber behind, the CM Liberator has long been a stalwart in the tyre recycling industry. However, the Sarasota-based operation had always faced a bit of a supply lag in supporting clients in Europe. Parts could be ordered from CM Shredders, and whilst they might be dispatched quickly, there was always going to be a time lag between making the order and receiving the delivery. That could mean potential downtime if a critical part was not readily available.

Shred Tech already had a base in the UK supplying parts and build services for secure document disposal vehicles. The relocation of that operation to a 13,000 square foot unit has created the opportunity for CM Shredders to carry parts in the UK to better service the UK and European markets.

Cedric Raffi, General Manager Shred Tech EMEA Region

Cedric Raffi is the General Manager of Shred Tech in the EMEA region including Europe, Middle East and Africa, he explained; “We are looking at growing our market in Europe, and through this depot in the UK and a sister company in the Netherlands, we will be able to give a much-improved service to the market.

“We know that CM has the right equipment, it is the best in the market, and we want to be in a position to better serve our clients in Europe. From Bedford, we are in an ideal position to reach most of the UK with a fast replacement parts service.”

The Bedford site currently has eight staff, but as the CM side of the business grows Cedric hopes to recruit a salesman and further engineers.

Cedric says; “when people invest in a CM shredder, they are investing in a longer term business. We can support clients to help maintain running costs at a lower level by providing parts and service that is backed by CM. Our patented knives system has multiple lives and can be resharpened rather than replacing them. Ultimately, the whole life costs are a better prospect with CM than with some lower cost machinery.”

Future developments in Bedford will be the creation of a facility to completely refurbish machinery to give it further life. The ability to give second life to the equipment further enhances the whole life costs and will give clients, perhaps, a further 10 years’ use of their machinery.

Until now, CM has largely operated from its US base in Florida. It is some years since there was any sales representation in Europe. Cedric says; “CM is back on the scene and we will be proactive in the coming months and years. For example, we will be at IFAT next time around. We need to be there in front of our potential customers to show them what benefits and service we can offer.”

On the state of the market, Cedric was aware of the challenges the UK sector faced. Similar challenges also face the market in Germany, and across Europe there is a reliance on exports to bolster recovery and “disposal” rates. However, the growing drive for recycling at source gives hope that along with better waste management across Europe and future restrictions on exports to some markets, there will be a boost to the domestic recycling sector. In the meantime, CM is preparing the ground by developing the support infrastructure needed to service the existing and future markets.

It is worth noting that Shred Tech and CM Shredders are part of the Heico Group, a multinational operation with involvement in a wide range of sectors from logistics infrastructure, through construction to metal processing.

Recircle Awards 2025 Evolves in Drive for Inclusivity

Retreading Business and Tyre & Rubber Recycling magazines, the organisers of the Recircle Awards, have announced a number of new initiatives to drive inclusivity and engagement across the tyre retreading and tyre recycling sectors as it seeks to evolve and expand its position as the key industry awards event recognising sustainability in the tyre industry.

In announcing the launch of the 2025 Recircle Awards, which will culminate in a glittering ceremony to be held next May during Autopromotec 2025 in Bologna, Italy, David Wilson, Publisher of Retreading Business and Tyre & Rubber Recycling, revealed the company’s latest initiatives:

Richard and David Wilson launch the Recicrcle Awards 2025

“2025 marks the fourth edition of the Recircle Awards, and we are delighted to able to announce our continued co-operation with Autopromotec. We look forward to being able to host an enhanced ceremony in Bologna next May, and we thank Renzo Servadei and his team for their valued support in helping us to expand the influence of the Recircle Awards as the key awards event recognising the valuable contribution made by the tyre retreading and recycling sectors to the circular economy and to the sustainability of the tyre industry as a whole.

“We are constantly looking for ways to increase the scope of the Awards and to drive engagement from companies from across the industry both large and small, and in analysing feedback from the market, we identified the need to alter the weighting of the voting process in order to gain the optimum balance between the opinions of our expert judges and engagement from the wider market. As a result, 65% of the voting strength in the 2025 awards will now be allocated to the views expressed by our independent Nominations Committee.

“We have also increased the robustness of the nominations and voting process by asking shortlisted nominees to submit a written case in support of their nomination which can be analysed by the Committee, as well as increasing the amount of information required to be input by the voting public in order to minimise the risk of frivolous and/or organised mass voting.

“We are constantly looking at ways to improve the awards and we hope that these changes will represent a positive development as we strive to expand the profile and credibility of the Awards on a global level. We look forward to next year’s Awards ceremony with anticipation.”

In line with the 2023 event, the Recircle Awards 2025 will incorporate a total of 22 awards covering a wide and balanced range of categories from across the tyre industry. The first 18 awards categories were announced today and are as follows:

  • Lifetime Achievement Award in the Tyre Retreading Sector
  • Lifetime Achievement Award in the Tyre Recycling Sector
  • Retreader of the Year Award
  • Tyre Recycler of the Year Award
  • Best Retreading Industry Innovation
  • Best Tyre Recycling Innovation
  • Employee of the Year
  • Best Company Director
  • Spirit of Retreading Award
  • Circular Economy Award
  • Best Tread Rubber Supplier
  • Best Retreading Equipment Supplier
  • Best Retreading Accessory and Consumables Supplier
  • Best Tyre Recycling Industry Supplier
  • Women’s Award for the Tyre Retreading Sector
  • Women’s Award for the Tyre Recycling Sector
  • Best Tyre Recycling Research Project
  • Business Breakthrough Award

A further four categories will be announced on Monday February 10, 2025

Meanwhile, nominations for the Recircle Awards are now open and can be made via the official voting/nominations platform on the Recircle Awards website at www.recircleawards.com.

The shortlist, to be announced in a virtual Nominations Ceremony on Monday, January 20, 2025, will once again be selected by a specially constituted Nominations Committee of 15 people, consisting of the respective editors of Retreading Business and Tyre & Rubber Recycling plus a further thirteen individuals from the global tyre retreading and recycling industries selected according to their independent status and their acknowledged expertise within their respective fields.

Voting for the 2025 Recircle Awards will open as soon as the shortlists are announced and will run until Friday, March 14, 2025.

The Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday 22 May 2025, during Autopromotec 2025 in Bologna.

More details of the Awards Ceremony and associated activities at Autopromotec 2025 will be released in due course.

About Retreading Business and Tyre & Rubber Recycling:

Retreading Business, established in 1997, is the only global business-to-business magazine for the tyre retreading industry. The magazine is recognised as a key authority on the retreading sector worldwide.

Tyre & Rubber Recycling, established in 2009, is edited by tyre recycling expert Ewan Scott and has also established itself as a global authority on its sector. Both magazines operate as part of a wider publishing group specialising in business-to-business publications for the tyre and automotive sector, including Retreading Business, Tyre & Rubber Recycling, Commercial Tyre Business, The Tyreman and Truck & Bus News.

REGOM Expands with New Industrial Line at TC Environnement

REGOM, is excited to announce the launch of its new tyre identification machine and industrial line at the newly established TC Environnement (TCE) facility

Located on a 4-hectare site in Digoin, France, TCE represents a major leap forward for both companies, combining advanced technology and sustainable practices to address the growing demand for efficient tyre recycling solutions.

TCE marks the next chapter in a journey that began with TC58, a subsidiary of the TC Group focused on logistics and transportation. It was at TC58 where the first version of REGOM’s tyre sorting machine was initially introduced. Today, the full tyre sorting and recycling operation has transitioned to TCE, now home to a new state-of-the-art industrial line.

A Leader with Practical Knowledge

What sets this project apart is not only the technology and the expertise but also the leadership driving it. Arthur Wagner, the CEO of both REGOM and TCE, brings unique insight into the industry. Wagner understands the day-to-day realities of tyre recycling. His involvement in both businesses provides him with a rare combination of technical knowledge and hands-on experience. This allows REGOM to create solutions that go beyond simply selling machines; the company delivers systems built from a genuine understanding of the operational challenges faced by tyre recyclers.

Wagner commented on the significance of this transition; “Moving our tyre sorting operations from TC58 to TCE has allowed us to scale up our capacity and expand our capabilities. With the newly engineered industrial line and the addition of the Precimeca shredder, we’ve greatly improved our efficiency, making us more competitive in an increasingly regulated recycling industry. This setup not only allows us to create new revenue streams but also helps us stay ahead in a market that demands both innovation and sustainability.”

A Fully Engineered Line: REGOM’s End-to-End Expertise

The new industrial line at TCE is proof to REGOM’s full engineering expertise. The entire project, from the initial concept to the final installation, was managed internally by the REGOM’s team: from the unloading of tyres at the facility to the final stages of sorting and shredding. The system begins with tyre debulking, separation, and alignment, all synchronised with REGOM’s advanced identification and sorting machine. Tyres are then graded according to specific criteria, and data is compiled by proprietary software that tracks every stage of the process.

Once the grading is complete, the tyres are either sorted for resale and retreading or sent to the shredding stage, where batches of non-reusable tyres are processed for other recycling streams. By handling each phase—tyre intake, identification, sorting, and final exit—REGOM ensures that each system is perfectly integrated into their client’s operations.

The Future of Tyre Recycling

As demand for sustainable recycling practices continues to grow, facilities like TCE will play a critical role in shaping the future of the industry. REGOM’s approach—combining technological innovation with a deep understanding of the industry’s operational realities—ensures that the company remains at the forefront of tyre recycling advancements.

More Sustainable Road Construction with GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED 

Genan says that in a world where sustainability is paramount, the infrastructure we build today must not only meet current needs but also contribute to a greener future

Road construction, often a significant contributor to environmental impact, is now embracing innovation with GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED — a more sustainable elastomer modifier for bitumen and asphalt. This product represents a shift towards a more responsible and eco-conscious approach to infrastructure development. 

GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED incorporates high-quality rubber powder from recycled tyres, providing enhanced durability for roads while reducing waste and cutting CO2 emissions. With increasing emphasis on circular economy solutions, this advanced technology is helping redefine road construction. 

Improved Performance through Cutting-Edge Technology 

Developed through extensive research and technological innovation, GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED combines rubber powder from Genan with Vestenamer® from Evonik to create a homogenous, easy-to-handle elastomer modifier. This one-component solution simplifies the construction process and enables asphalt and bitumen suppliers to work more efficiently while conserving resources. 

Thomas Ballegaard, CCO at Genan

“One of the product’s key advantages is its versatility, as it is suitable for both wet and dry processes. This flexibility offers contractors the ability to achieve optimal results, even in changing weather conditions,” Thomas Ballegaard, CCO at Genan, explains. Laboratory tests and real-world projects have demonstrated its impressive performance. With just 10% of GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED, results match or surpass those achieved by traditional 4% SBS modifiers. Roads constructed with this product show greater resistance to rutting and deformation, ensuring a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs—a crucial benefit, especially after harsh winters that leave many roads riddled with potholes. 

A Greener Future with Genan 

By recycling worn-out tyres into asphalt, GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED offers an innovative solution to the growing challenge of tyre disposal. As the world’s largest recycler of tyres, Genan processes a portion of the 7,000,000 tyres discarded globally each day, preventing them from ending up in landfills. The company’s six factories contribute to a reduction of up to 280,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. 

“Our commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Genan,” says Thomas Ballegaard and continues; “With GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED, we’re not just improving the roads we drive on; we’re also playing a vital role in reducing the environmental impact of road construction. It’s a solution that combines innovation, performance, and responsibility.” 

As the industry continues to evolve, products like GENAN ROAD+ PREMIXED will be essential for shaping a sustainable future. Investing in these greener solutions is not only a step towards improved infrastructure but also a pivotal move towards circular economy practices that benefit both the planet and future generations. 

REGOM Expands into the U.S. Market

REGOM, a leading tyre recycling technology business, has officially expanded into the United States, establishing its first U.S. office at the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) in Boston

Originally from Digoin in the Burgundy region of France, REGOM is stepping up its international efforts, further positioning itself as a key player in the tyre recycling industry.

Strategic Expansion to Serve the U.S. Tire Recycling Market

The new Boston office allows REGOM to better support the American tyre recycling sector

After years of active engagement at trade shows and conferences across the United States, REGOM is responding to the evolving needs of the American tyre recycling industry by establishing a direct presence in Boston. This move will allow the company to better serve local recyclers and expand its footprint in a market where pressures from regulations and competition are becoming more pronounced.

Having evolved in the highly regulated French market, REGOM wisesh to bring its experience and expertise to the U.S. tyre recycling sector. The company has developed its AI-powered technology while navigating stringent regulations in France, making it well-prepared to support American recyclers as they face increasing market pressures.

A Competitive Edge for U.S. Recyclers

REGOM’s expansion into the U.S. market offers tyre companies and recycling facilities access to cutting-edge technology designed to address both operational and financial challenges. The company’s AI-driven systems streamline the sorting and grading of used tyres, improving throughput and accuracy. This efficiency boost allows companies to reduce manual labour costs, minimise environmental impact, and generate new revenue opportunities by identifying tyres suitable for resale or retreading.

Technology-Driven Solutions for Tire Recycling

REGOM’s solutions are specifically designed to meet the complex needs of tyre recyclers. The company’s technology not only optimises the sorting and grading of tyres but also integrates data compilation and analytics to offer real-time insights into recycling operations. This allows companies to make data-driven decisions that maximise profitability while meeting strict environmental standards.

By setting up in Boston, REGOM is positioned to collaborate more closely with U.S.-based tyre companies, recyclers, and industry stakeholders. The move also facilitates partnerships with local and international players in the recycling sector, offering new opportunities for innovation and growth.