Oil from recycled tyres means less emissions, scientists claim

Australia – Exhaust emissions from a recycled tyre-derived oil contain 30% less nitrogen oxide (which contributes to smog) and a lower particle mass than oil from fossil sources, according to research conducted by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Mechanical engineers tested the oil that, when blended with diesel in small percentages, not only gives reduced emissions but also delivers no loss of engine performance. The percentage of fossil fuel was varied during the tests and will continue to be in subsequent trials.

The oil is the result of what is claimed to be a new tyre recycling technology and ‘a world breakthrough’ from Australian company Green Distillation Technologies – Australia’s first-ever nominee in the US International Edison Awards for innovation, at which it won a bronze medal in 2015.

The process recycles end-of-life tyres into oil, carbon and steel, leaving nothing wasted and even using some of the recovered oil as the heat source. The company collaborated with QUT mechanical engineer Professor Richard Brown and student Farhad Hossain in testing the oil for emissions and performance at the QUT Biofuel Engine Research Facility.

By 2020, Australia is expected to generate some 55 million end-of-life tyres per year.

Read more about this exciting research project in the No.1/2017 issue of Recycling International.