Tommaso Verri, CEO of RubberJet Group, brought a splash of innovation to the recent Round Trip Tyre and Conveyor Belt Recycling Summit in Melbourne, where he was a guest on Episode 85 of The Tyre Recycling Podcast. His company’s high-pressure water jetting technology is turning heads in the recycling sector, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional ambient shredding methods. This technology, Verri explains, is not just about efficiency but also about creating high-quality rubber powder, a growing demand in the market.
RubberJet’s water jetting technology operates at high pressures, effectively breaking down tyres into reusable materials without the need for harsh chemicals or excessive energy consumption. “This method is not only more sustainable but also produces a cleaner end product,” Verri stated during the podcast. The technology’s ability to generate high-quality rubber powder is particularly noteworthy, as it meets the stringent requirements of industries like construction and manufacturing, where consistency and purity are paramount.
The environmental benefits of RubberJet’s approach are significant. The company employs a closed-loop water system, ensuring minimal water waste and contamination. This aligns with the broader industry shift towards circular economy principles, where waste is minimized, and resources are kept in use for as long as possible. Verri emphasized that sustainability is at the core of RubberJet’s operations, a message that resonates with increasingly eco-conscious consumers and regulators alike.
One of RubberJet’s most ambitious projects is the “Life In Green” initiative, a €3.6 million European Commission co-funded program aimed at addressing the logistical challenges of recycling off-the-road (OTR) and mining tyres. These tyres, often used in heavy industries like mining, are notoriously difficult to recycle due to their size and composition. Verri highlighted that regions like Australia, with their vast mining operations, stand to benefit greatly from this project. “The ‘Life In Green’ project is about creating a scalable solution that can be deployed globally,” he said, underscoring the potential for significant environmental and economic impacts.
RubberJet’s global expansion strategy is equally impressive. The company is pursuing joint ventures and partnerships with major industry players, including Zeppelin and Brenntag. These collaborations are crucial for scaling operations and entering new markets. Verri detailed how these partnerships will help RubberJet establish a stronger foothold in strategic regions, particularly in Europe and Australia, where the demand for sustainable recycling solutions is high.
The deployment strategy for RubberJet’s technology is flexible, allowing for both on-site mining operations and centralized recycling hubs. This adaptability is key to addressing the diverse needs of different regions and industries. Verri noted that while on-site solutions offer immediate benefits, centralized hubs can provide economies of scale, making the technology more accessible and cost-effective in the long run.
Strategic partnerships are a cornerstone of RubberJet’s growth. The company’s alliance with Zeppelin, for instance, is expected to enhance its operational capabilities and market reach. Verri also mentioned the positive momentum building around RubberJet, with several exciting developments on the horizon. “We are at a pivotal moment,” he remarked, hinting at the company’s potential to reshape the tyre recycling landscape.
The implications of RubberJet’s innovations extend beyond the immediate benefits of sustainable recycling. By offering a viable alternative to traditional methods, the company is challenging the status quo and pushing the industry towards more eco-friendly practices. This shift could accelerate the adoption of circular economy principles, not just in tyre recycling but across various sectors.
Moreover, RubberJet’s focus on high-quality rubber powder production could open new avenues for recycled materials in high-value applications. This could drive further investment in recycling technologies and create a more robust market for recycled products. The company’s global expansion plans and strategic partnerships are also likely to foster greater collaboration within the industry, leading to more innovative and sustainable solutions.
In the broader context, RubberJet’s efforts align with global trends towards sustainability and resource efficiency. As governments and industries worldwide commit to reducing waste and carbon footprints, companies like RubberJet are well-positioned to lead the charge. The success of RubberJet’s initiatives could inspire similar innovations in other sectors, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The tyre recycling industry is at a crossroads, and RubberJet’s high-pressure water jetting technology offers a promising path forward. By combining innovation with a commitment to sustainability, the company is not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for future advancements. As Verri and his team continue to push boundaries, the industry can expect to see significant developments in the years to come. The Round Trip Tyre and Conveyor Belt Recycling Summit provided a platform for these ideas to gain traction, and it will be interesting to see how they evolve in the coming months and years.