Car tyres
The Russian dandelion grows in Germany in areas that are unsuitable for farming. Unlike the rubber tree, which grows in subtropical regions, the increasing demand without vegetation clearance or conversion of farmland can be met.
DATA & FACTS
Sector:
Automobile
Renewable resource:
Russian dandelion
Participating company:
Continental
Bioeconomy factor:
Meets the growing demand for rubber without clearing or conversion of grassland, shorter transport distances
Status:
Test phase
From a wild to an agricultural crop
With the help of modern breeding procedures, researchers from the Fraunhofer Society have transformed the dandelion from a wild plant into an agricultural crop, which is robust and high yielding. Together with the tyre company Continental, a pilot plant for the production of dandelion-based rubber has been set up in Germany. The sap from the dandelion roots is extracted from this pilot plant.
Ready for the market
The first winter test tyres have already been made. Road tests are currently being carried out. All of which have been successful to date.
Weak points
Relatively high price/not cost-effective
Weitere Produkte
