UK climate tech leader Levidian has unveiled its first prototype truck tire at Tire Technology Expo, combining net zero graphene with carbon black in a new tread formulation that the company says could unlock a future of greener, higher-performance tires.
The graphene-enhanced natural rubber and butadiene rubber tire tread compound, typically used in commercial vehicle tires, has been shown to deliver significant improvements in the mechanical and dynamic properties of the tire.
Independent testing by the Tun Abdul Razak Research Centre (TARRC) has shown that the addition of Levidian’s net zero graphene can deliver a reduction in rolling resistance of around 23%. Initial results have also indicated potential for reduced compound density that could allow for lighter tires. Overall, this could deliver 3-4% improvements in fuel efficiency.
Levidian’s graphene is produced as part of a unique decarbonization solution called LOOP, which allows tire producers to drive down the emissions of their manufacturing processes and products through the production of clean hydrogen and high-quality graphene, which can be used as a reinforcing, tread-grade carbon filler.
Ellie Galanis, director of commercial development for Levidian, said, “We’re on a mission to help industry to decarbonize and are excited to be sharing this prototype tire alongside the results of testing with our partners at TARRC.
“By deploying our technology, HGV operators could achieve improvements in fuel economy of at least 3% – that’s an annual saving of over £300m [US$381m] on fuel and a reduction in emissions of almost half a million metric tons of CO2 equivalent for UK operators alone.”
Levidian’s solution allows tire manufacturers to not only drive down the emissions associated with production but also secure their supply chains by producing their own graphene on-site for direct application in their tires.
To find out more about Levidian’s decarbonization solutions, visit the team at Booth C502 at Tire Technology Expo.
Tire Technology Expo is running at the Deutsche Messe in Hannover, Germany on March 19, 20 & 21, 2024. Click here to register for your free expo pass.
