Research and advances in technology have lead to an increasing number of recycling opportunities for rubber. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. generated more than 290 million scrap tires in 2003. About 233 million, or 80.4 percent, of these tires were saved from the landfill and the rubber was recycled into other valuable commodities.
Reclaimed rubber is often ground up for use in other applications. The ground rubber, or "crumb rubber," is often blended into asphalt to improve its performance (see References 3). In addition to providing the largest market for reclaimed rubber, rubberized asphalt offers many other advantages. Roads paved with rubberized asphalt have greater elasticity and are less prone to cracking and aging. Because of this, maintenance and replacement costs are reduced (see References 4). Rubberized asphalt roads are also safer because they offer more skid resistance, which allows drivers to come to a stop more quickly. In addition, this material also helps buffer road noise, reducing it by 5 decibels. (See References 2)
Recycled rubber flooring is attractive and durable. It has long been a staple in commercial and educational buildings. Recently, new designs and colors have made it popular with residential architects and designers as well (see References 5). A 30-year life cycle is typical for a recycled rubber floor. Rubber floors do not need to be sealed or waxed because their durable surface is nonporous. Since strong cleaning products and waxes are not needed for rubber floors, indoor air quality improves. (See References 5)
Ground rubber is increasingly used for trails, athletic turf, mulch and playground surfaces. Ground rubber is sometimes used loose around playground equipment, or it is made into pre-cast tiles and mats that are installed around the equipment. This rubber surface cushions falls and makes the playground safer. Likewise, ground rubber adds a shock-absorbing component to athletic fields and running tracks. Ground rubber is also cost-effective, clean, durable and less likely to compact than traditional materials. (See References 4) Rubber mulch can also be applied around landscaping. It requires less maintenance since it doesn't break down like traditional wood-chip mulch. It can be installed safely over existing substrates, like gravel (see References 4).
Rubber-encased railroad ties are strong and extremely durable --- they may last up to 90 years. These railroad ties are made in layers: The core is a concrete-filled steel beam, and it is surrounded by 80 lbs. of ground rubber and recycled plastic bottles. According the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this type of railroad tie is over 200 percent stronger than a traditional creosote-soaked tie. Railroads save money by using fewer ties per mile. (See References 6)
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Scrap Tires
- Clemson Department of Civil Engineering: Benefits of Rubberized Asphalt
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Ground Rubber Applications
- Tellus Institute; Recycled Rubber Products in Landscaping Applications; John Stutz, et al.; May 2003
- "Buildings Magazine"; The Green Benefits of Recycled Rubber; Carol Fudge; November 2006
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Science and Technology
- Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images