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NEWS
Rice husk ash used in tyre construction
Tyre company adds to its green credentials as waste from incinerated rice husks is used as source for silicaThe ash left over from the incineration of rice husks to produce electricity in certain parts of the world has found a new home: As a source of the silica used for vehicle tyre production.
Ongoing studies by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company at its Innovation Center in Ohio, USA, have proved that the burned husks are not only a source of silica, but that their use also answers some of the environmental problems of rice waste disposal.
With more than 700 million tonnes of rice harvested each year, disposal of the husks themselves presents a problem that is only partly solved through their being burned to produce electricity. Otherwise the discarded husks are generally used as landfill.
According to the company's interim chief technical officer Joseph Zekoski, "Goodyear's innovation efforts are focused on making tires more environmentally friendly – in their materials, in their performance and in the manufacturing process.
"For example, we continue to explore ways to increase the fuel efficiency of tires. We strive to help consumers keep their tires operating optimally, through innovations such as Air Maintenance Technology (AMT). And we look to renewable resources, including soy bean oil, to replace petroleum-based materials in tires."
The concept of using the previously redundant rice husks left over from food processing as a relatively cheap fuel source for electricity generation is being applied in parts of India, where biomass gasifiers are able to supply the basic needs of small villages.
Silica is mixed with rubber in tyre treads to increase strength and help improve fuel economy through the reduction of rolling resistance. It can also assist traction in wet conditions.
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Written byCarsales Staff
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