Qingdao Sentury Tire, in collaboration with the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Processes (Qingdao Energy Institute), has achieved a significant milestone in tire technology by pioneering the development of Ultra-High-Performance (UHP) tires incorporating "iron-based combed" synthetic rubber. This achievement comes on the heels of the commissioning of an industrial-scaled plant by Qingdao Energy Institute in the previous year, a dedicated facility for the production of 'iron-based' solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).

In a press statement released in December 2023, Sentury disclosed that the initial batches of these groundbreaking tires, totalling "more than 40,000 high-performance units," successfully underwent stringent quality-control testing. Particularly noteworthy were the exceptional wet braking performance results observed during real vehicle field trials conducted by IDIADA, where the tires demonstrated an outstanding level of anti-skid safety in accordance with the EU's new labelling regulation.

The test outcomes revealed a significant reduction in braking distance, reaching 80 meters at a speed of 120 km/h, compared to the conventional requirement of 100 meters. This notable enhancement underscores the superior performance of these tires in wet conditions, contributing to an overall improvement in road safety.

Beyond the safety advantages, the tires incorporating "iron-based combed" synthetic rubber showcased a positive impact on fuel consumption during highway-speed tests. Conventional tires exhibited a fuel consumption rate of 7 liters per 100 km, whereas the new tires demonstrated a remarkable reduction, consuming "less than 6.5 liters per 100 km." This not only signifies heightened safety features but also reflects an environmentally conscious approach with significantly improved fuel efficiency.

The production facility at Qingdao Energy Institute, in collaboration with Sinopec's Baling Petrochemical, presently operates with a production capacity of 30 kilotonnes per annum for the iron based SBR. This collaborative initiative, which also involves key Chinese tire manufacturers Linglong and Haohua, is strategically designed to address China's reliance on imported synthetic rubber. The overarching goal is to meet the "urgent need" for the high-value conversion and utilization of C4-C5 olefins, reinforcing China's leadership in sustainable and self-sufficient rubber production.

Qingdao Sentury Tire's successful development of UHP tires incorporating "iron-based combed" synthetic rubber represents a groundbreaking leap in tire technology. The positive results in wet braking performance, reduced braking distance, and improved fuel efficiency underscore the transformative potential of these tires in redefining safety standards and contributing to environmental sustainability. The collaborative efforts with Qingdao Energy Institute, Sinopec's Baling Petrochemical, and other key industry players underscore the strategic importance of addressing China's synthetic rubber dependence through innovative and high-value solutions. This collaborative venture not only pushes the boundaries of tire technology but also positions China as a pioneer in sustainable and cutting-edge rubber production.