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São Paulo, June 28, 2016 – Rhodia, a company of the Solvay Group, has begun production in Brazil of high-performance precipitated silica (HDS) to meet the expanding demand for the manufacturing of the so-called 'green tires,' which save energy (fuel) and simultaneously reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
Studies conducted by the company and international automotive sector organizations indicate that the use of HDS silica allows for up to a 7% fuel consumption reduction in vehicles and similarly decreases carbon emissions. Additionally, Rhodia's silica improves tire grip on wet surfaces by 10%.
"Our HDS silica can be a key factor for the automotive industry to more quickly achieve the carbon emission reduction goals outlined by the Brazilian Inovar-Auto program," says François Pontais, Director for Latin America of the Global Silica Business Unit at the Solvay Group.
According to Pontais, the shift of tire manufacturers towards 'green tires' is a global market trend, given the stricter environmental requirements for vehicle emission control, aiming to enhance sustainable mobility. "HDS silica has become a global leader in its segment precisely by meeting these needs," he adds.
The concept of green tires originated in Europe in the early 1990s in the passenger vehicle segment, following the invention of HDS silica by Rhodia (a part of the Solvay Group since 2011). It gained traction due to European environmental legislation for the automotive sector, which continues to challenge the industry to produce more sustainable and less polluting vehicles.
The expanded use of HDS silica received a significant boost with the recent adoption of tire labeling programs, a way to ensure the consumer makes the best purchase aligned with the demand for more sustainable products. The labeling program was initially implemented in Europe in 2012 and soon expanded to other regions globally, including Asia (Japan and South Korea). Now, starting from October 2016, it will be effective in Brazil. "HDS silica will contribute to the tire industry offering the best product to consumers," says François Pontais.
Investments in technology and innovation – The start of high-performance silica production in Brazil is one of the outcomes of a series of projects focused on increasing efficiency and competitiveness in the Silica business in Latin America. This includes the production unit and the application development laboratory, both located in the Solvay Group's industrial complex in Paulínia (SP), along with administrative and commercial management teams.
"Our effort is aimed at reinforcing our leadership in the Latin America region by improving our processes and products to meet the needs of customers in various markets where our silicas are used," notes François Pontais, Director for Latin America of the Global Silica Business Unit at the Solvay Group.
The improvement project portfolio covers all areas of the Silica business in Latin America. For example, there are investments in Best Available Technology (BAT) for production processes (high-performance silica, energy efficiency, production yields), operational excellence, and supply chain (packaging, storage, and logistics) at the Paulínia (SP) industrial plant.
All these technologies and product developments in the rubber and tire sector - Zeosil® and Efficium® - are showcased by the company at Expobor 2016 – the 12th International Exhibition of Rubber Technology, Thermoplastics, and Machinery, from June 28 to 30, at Expo Center Norte, in São Paulo.
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High-performance silica from the Solvay Group is applied to green tires, contributing to fuel savings and vehicle emission reduction.
Service: Rhodia, a Solvay Group company, at Expobor 2016 and ABTB and PneuShow congresses - From June 28 to 30 – ExpoCenter Norte (SP)
Rhodia booth - Street E27
Special lectures in the event auditorium:
At the Expobor/ABTB Congress
June 28, from 11:50 am to 12:15 pm – Efficium, a new concept in silica. Gains in productivity and performance. By Guilherme Brunetto and Laurent Guy.
June 29, from 11:50 am to 12:15 pm – Life cycle analysis of silica in tire applications. By Guilherme Brunetto and Laurent Guy.
At the Pneu Show Congress:
June 28, from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm - Innovation and Commitment to Sustainable Mobility. By Paulo Garbelotto.
About the Solvay Group
As an international group in chemistry and advanced materials, Solvay assists customers in innovation, development, and the supply of sustainable, high-value solutions that consume less energy, reduce CO2 emissions, optimize resource usage, and improve the quality of life on the planet. Its products are used in various markets such as automotive and aerospace, consumer goods and healthcare, energy and the environment, construction, electrical and electronics, as well as industrial applications. The Brussels-based Group employs 30,000 people in 53 countries. In 2015, it recorded a turnover of €12.4 billion, with 90% obtained from sales in activities where it is among the top three global leaders. Solvay SA (SOLB.BE) is listed on Euronext in Brussels and Paris (Bloomberg: SOLB.BB -Reuters: SOLB.BR). In Brazil, the Group also operates under the Rhodia brand.
More information for the Press:
About the Solvay Group and Rhodia in Brazil
Roberto Custódio - roberto@pexpress.com.br
Marcela de Paula – marcela@pexpress.com.br
Tel. (55 11) 3284 5164 or mobile (+55 11) 999 33 8148"
