Seal Tires: practical convenience or environmental and safety hazard?
Seal tires, equipped with a self-sealing protective layer, may seem like a convenient solution at first glance. However, they pose significant ecological and safety concerns that cannot be overlooked.
According to AZuR, the following recycling challenges exist:
- The silicone-based sealing layer makes Seal tires non-recyclable.
- They cannot be retreaded or repurposed and must be incinerated at the end of their lifespan.
- In shredding facilities, they can cause damage, contaminate the recycling process, and increase fire risks.
"In Germany alone, around 550,000 tons of used tires are generated annually. Seal tires are unsuitable for sustainable tire recycling within the circular economy and exacerbate disposal issues," warns Christina Guth, network coordinator of the ZARE Initiative.
Safety:
Experts caution that Seal tires can create a false sense of security. Since damages often go unnoticed, they may pose a potential safety hazard for drivers.
The Verdict:
Seal tires fail both ecologically and in terms of safety, making them a significant challenge for a sustainable circular economy. The industry urgently needs more sustainable alternatives to ensure both environmental responsibility and road safety.
To lear more, proceed to the article by AZuR.
Weibold is an international consulting company specializing exclusively in end-of-life tire recycling and pyrolysis. Since 1999, we have helped companies grow and build profitable businesses.