Solvay and Hankook Partner to Develop Circular Silica for Sustainable Tire Production

Solvay and Hankook Partner to Develop Circular Silica for Sustainable Tire Production

(IN BRIEF) Solvay and Hankook have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop circular silica derived from biosourced and waste materials for tire production. This collaboration leverages Solvay’s expertise in silica and Hankook’s manufacturing capabilities to advance sustainable tire manufacturing. Solvay’s silica reduces rolling resistance, enhancing fuel efficiency for thermal engines and extending the battery range for electric vehicles, while also improving tire wear resistance. Both companies aim to mass-produce circular silica solutions in the near future, supporting their commitment to a circular economy and a greener automotive future.

(PRESS RELEASE) BRUSSELS, 13-Jan-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Solvay and Hankook have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop circular silica derived from biosourced and waste materials for tire manufacturing. This collaboration combines Solvay’s expertise in silica and sustainability with Hankook’s manufacturing prowess and industry leadership, reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the tire industry.

Solvay’s silica products are well-regarded for their ability to reduce rolling resistance, which helps lower fuel consumption in thermal engines and extends the battery range of electric vehicles. Additionally, the silica enhances tire wear resistance, leading to longer-lasting tires. A key component of this innovation is Solvay’s highly dispersible silica (HDS), which plays a pivotal role in enabling tire manufacturers to meet their circular economy goals. Building on its rice husk ash (RHA) production in Livorno, Italy, Solvay is actively driving circular solutions with tire industry leaders across all regions.

Bonhee Ku, President and CTO of Hankook Tire, commented, “This partnership is a significant step toward more sustainable tire production. By working with Solvay, we can develop materials that improve tire performance while supporting a circular economy and promoting a greener future.”

An Nuyttens, President of Solvay’s Silica & Special Chem divisions, emphasized the importance of silica in high-performance tires, saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Hankook on circular silica solutions that address critical industry challenges. Together, we’re pushing the limits of sustainable innovation to deliver superior performance and environmental benefits.”

The two companies will focus on advancing the technical development of circular silica, with plans for mass production in the near future. Solvay’s products, currently in the pilot phase, are undergoing evaluation, and the partnership is expected to drive progress toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible automotive future.

About Solvay

Solvay, a pioneering chemical company with a legacy rooted in founder Ernest Solvay’s pivotal innovations in the soda ash process, is dedicated to delivering essential solutions globally through its workforce of over 9,000 employees. Since 1863, Solvay harnesses the power of chemistry to create innovative, sustainable solutions that answer the world’s most essential needs such as purifying the air we breathe and the water we use, preserving our food supplies, protecting our health and well-being, creating eco-friendly clothing, making the tires of our cars more sustainable and cleaning and protecting our homes. Solvay’s unwavering commitment drives the transition to a carbon-neutral future by 2050, underscoring its dedication to sustainability and a fair and just transition. As a world-leading company with €4.9 billion in net sales in 2023, Solvay is listed on Euronext Brussels and Paris (SOLB). For more information about Solvay, please visit solvay.com or follow Solvay on Linkedin.

About Hankook Tire & Technology

Hankook Tire & Technology is a leading global tire manufacturer committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability. Established in 1941, the company offers a comprehensive range of tires for passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and motorsports. Hankook Tire operates in over 180 countries, collaborating with strategic partners worldwide to provide advanced mobility solutions.

Media Contacts:

Peter Boelaert
External Communication Director
Tel +32 479 30 91 59
media.relations@solvay.com

Boris Cambon-Lalanne
Capital Markets Director
Tel +32 471 55 37 49
investor.relations@solvay.com

Laetitia Van Minnenbruggen
Media relations manager
Tel +32 484 65 30 47
media.relations@solvay.com

Geoffroy d’Oultremont
Head of Investor Relations
Tel +32 478 88 32 96
investor.relations@solvay.com

Valérie Goutherot
Media relations (France)
Tel +33 6 77 05 04 79
media.relations@solvay.com

Vincent Toussaint
Investor Relations Manager
Tel +33 6 74 87 85 65
investor.relations@solvay.com

SOURCE: Solvay

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