In tracer tires, the data is retrieved using special software and a reader.
Continental AG Corporation (Germany) and its partner Security Matters (SMX) (Australia) – an innovative technology platform specializing in digital tracking using immutable chemical-based barcodes – have developed a new technology platform involving “invisible tracer” can help trace the origin of natural rubber (NR) in tires. Recently, two companies announced that they had performed a real test of resilience on the tracer and had succeeded in verifying it in tires. In field testing, the substance was added to latex during the harvesting process.
From there, the tracer must withstand the intensive preparations involved in the production of natural rubber as well as the tire manufacturing process. In manufactured bicycle tires, data is retrieved using special, purpose-built software and a reader, and interpreted correctly. For the test, the tire maker used natural rubber grown in Indonesia's West Kalimantan, where Continental is currently working with the German development aid agency (GIZ) to produce sustainable rubber.
As part of the trial and in line with the sustainability project in the region, local smallholders were instructed on how the tracer works and the concentrations they should be added to the latex. . The marking technology, which has been optimized for use in the NR, will help Continental create more transparency throughout the tire and technical rubber product value chain. The invisible tracer carries information about the geographical origin of natural rubber and can verify if the rubber was supplied responsibly. This technology supports the group's goal of using 100% reasonably sourced materials in all of its tires "by 2050".
“We see huge potential in marking technology,” said Claus Petschick, head of sustainability at Continental Tires. Going forward, it will help us ensure that the natural rubber we use in our tires is grown and sourced responsibly.”
NGUYEN ANH NGHIA
(the european-rubber-journal.com)
