History of Tire Recycling

Helping to lower landfills

Traditionally, car tires have had limited uses after serving their car owners. Though the treads may no longer make for safe driving – tires can exist beyond 60 years sitting in landfills. They are made for safety – and live well beyond their useful years.

The first re-uses for car tires were tire swings and dock bumpers. They can be seen throughout the world as make-shift planters and occasionally used for sculptures or other creative uses. However, these occasional uses hardly put a dent in the need to recycle or re-use these old tires.

Within the last several years, tires have become a sincere focus of recycling programs. Economic incentives have been established within each state to ensure the safe disposal of old tires.

The adoption of tire recycling has lead to the increase in uses of the tire components. The metal is removed and melted down for use in new products. The fiber is removed and used for fuel in cement and utility plants. The rubber is removed and used for a variety of applications, including: fuel, asphalt filler; equestrian and sport arenas; playgrounds and parks; mulch and garden borders. Many other uses and applications continue to be developed.

Vulcana’s Role in Tire Recycling

Vulcana decided to use the car tire rubber to invent sheet rubber materials to be used for commercial and industrial uses. The initial line of materials, rubbRe™ is produced in a variety of colors and thicknesses for use in upholstery, wall coverings, furniture, flags & banners. The material is also being used in urban gardens, bags and luggage, and home & office accessories.