Goodyear has set a goal to produce a tire made entirely of sustainable materials by the end of the decade. The current prototype is 70 percent made of sustainable materials which is a clear indicator of progress towards the ultimate goal.

The current prototype consists of 13 ingredients in nine different rubber components, including three different types of soot made from methane, carbon dioxide and vegetable oil, thus reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional manufacturing processes. Soot is usually used as a filler to strengthen tires, as well as other rubber products, but also to extend their life.

Soybean oil was used in the production, which allows the tires to remain flexible, as well as various types of silica (from rice husk), which improves tire grip and helps reduce fuel consumption. The company’s intention was to use soybean oil in the production of four types of tires, but the plan was postponed due to the pandemic.

Goodyear chief technologist Chris Helsel said the rubber prototype is an exciting achievement that demonstrates the company’s commitment to using sustainable materials.

Source: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company