A partnership between Bridgestone Americas and Dow has seen the development of B-SEALS, a recyclable, silicone-based tire sealant technology. Having conducted more than four years of collaborative research, the companies are scheduled to introduce the extended mobility solution at an upcoming expo in Detroit, Michigan.
The B-SEALS technology will provide excellent sealant performance if a puncture occurs, without compromising sustainability. The new silicone-based sealant can be removed after application, unlike traditionally used sealants which are hard to separate from the tire. By promoting repairability, the duo aims to extend the total service life of a tire, and because the solution is removeable it also supports end-of-life tire recycling and material circularity.
With one third of all new passenger vehicles in the USA not coming equipped with a spare tire, Bridgestone will first offer the sealant technology to OEMs seeking to reduce overall vehicle weight and to improve efficiency.
“We envision a future where tires are the ultimate enablers of sustainable mobility,” said Nizar Trigui, chief technology officer and group president, Solutions Businesses, Bridgestone Americas. “Not only will tires be able to self-seal following a puncture, but we are also developing technologies that will relay real-time tire health information to a driver or fleet manager so that they can make more informed vehicle maintenance decisions. Our collaboration with Dow demonstrates how we’re using innovation and collaboration to make mobility safer, more efficient and more sustainable.”
“Dow is delighted to commercialize the world’s first silicone self-sealing tire solution to better provide passengers with safety, durability, comfort and sustainability benefits,” said Charlie Zimmer, global business director of Dow Performance Silicones and Specialty Materials. “As a global materials science leader, we look forward to a strong collaboration with Bridgestone to enable sustainable mobility through our novel tire solution – advancing our collective journey to a carbon-neutral world.”
