Initially, it is difficult to recycle tyres that used to be burnt in cement kilns but the pyrolysis process allows them to be broken down into component parts for reuse.
PYReco chairman, Anthony Carter, said: “This represents the conclusion of a long-lasting quest to find a viable solution to one of the UK and Europe’s most difficult recycling problems.
“It provides a highly effective and ‘green’ way of dealing with used tyres. It is a project of global importance and with Teesside’s long history of expertise in petro-chemicals, it is only fitting that our business will be based here.”
The system will produce oil and gas that the company says will produce up to 17MW of electricity when the plant is fully operational.
The refined carbon black and high tensile steel gathered from the recycling process will be sold to industry for reuse. Around 50 permanent jobs are expected to be created at the site with an additional post in supporting services such as sales, administration, distribution and tyre shredding. As well as the petrochemicals experience found on Teesside.
Carter said: “The way Teesside has organised its reception committee is completely different. There were people who were ready to welcome us. The other thing you have which is a huge advantage is the legacy of ICI.”
“We found a can do attitude and willingness to collaborate. It was so refreshing. You can quite reasonably expect to be the emerging industrial heartland of the UK in the next generation.”
