Gas specialist Messer will present gas solutions supporting the circular economy of tyres at “The Tire Cologne 2024”

Messer, the world’s largest privately held industrial gas specialist, will take part in “The Tire Cologne” together with AZuR (Allianz Zukunft Reifen), a network committed to fostering a circular economy for tyres. Messer’s booth will be centrally located in hall 7.1, booth A040 – B049, in the exhibition area dedicated to circular economy, where the latest technology solutions for the sustainable production and recycling of tyres will be presented. 

According to the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA), more than 3 million metric tons of end-of-life tyres accumulate every year solely in Europe. Recycling and reusing these tyres is essential to minimise waste, preserve natural resources, and comply with environmental regulations. Messer’s gas solutions support this and enable further development of a circular economy for tyres. 

Nitrogen: a key enabler for tyre recycling 

Nitrogen and the related technology solutions from Messer play a key role in both the material and chemical recycling of tyres. 

Cryogenic grinding with liquid nitrogen is a proven application for material recycling, used to separate the different materials of tyres and produce very fine rubber powders. In the process, liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -196°C cools and embrittles tyre rubber granules in paddle screw coolers. Cold grinding enables high throughput, a stable process as well as a higher quality of ground rubber compared to conventional grinding methods. 

Gaseous nitrogen is injected to replace ambient air in pyrolysis before feeding shredded tyres into the reactor, ensuring that the oxygen content remains below two per cent. This inert atmosphere protects tyres and prevents combustion.

Extensive know-how for the tire industry  At Messer’s state-of-the-art technical centre for cold grinding and recycling in Krefeld, Germany, tests can be conducted to precisely define the grinding parameters, estimate manufacturing costs, and compare the results of different grinding processes. Messer offers a reliable supply of nitrogen tailored to the needs of its customers.