VTTI, recognised as a global leader in energy storage and infrastructure, has entered into an agreement with Pyrum Innovations AG, a specialist in the thermolysis recycling of waste tyres, to establish a cutting-edge waste tyre recycling thermolysis plant at VTTI’s Antwerp Terminal (ATPC). This agreement represents a significant advancement in integrating sustainable waste management solutions into VTTI’s infrastructure and is a crucial step in Pyrum’s international expansion efforts.
The project involves the construction of a thermolysis plant capable of processing up to 90,000 tonnes of End-of-Life Tyres (ELT) annually, implemented in two phases of 45,000 tonnes each. While VTTI will retain full ownership of the plant, Pyrum will serve as the development partner, contributing its proprietary and patented thermolysis technology. Pyrum was chosen as the development partner following a thorough evaluation, thanks to its advanced and proven thermolysis technology and successful history of industrial-scale operations in Europe.
This collaboration aligns with VTTI’s strategic objective of expanding its infrastructure footprint in sustainable energy solutions. The development of this plant is a key milestone in VTTI’s commitment to achieving 50 percent of its earnings from transitional and sustainable energies, as it diversifies its portfolio. The organisation also plans to develop similar plants at its existing global sites.
Guy Moeyens, CEO of VTTI, remarked that this collaboration with Pyrum signifies a significant progression towards a more sustainable future. By incorporating advanced thermolysis technology into its existing infrastructure, VTTI is not only diversifying its energy portfolio but also contributing to the circular economy. This initiative reflects VTTI’s dedication to innovation and responsible energy solutions, reinforcing its role in the transition to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
The thermolysis process will convert waste tyres into valuable by-products, such as Tyre Pyrolysis Oil (TPO) and Recovered Carbon Black (rCB). Leveraging its existing infrastructure and expertise, VTTI aims to promote a circular economy while enhancing the sustainability of industrial by-products.
Pascal Klein, CEO of Pyrum Innovations AG, expressed that the partnership with VTTI marks a pivotal milestone in modern tyre recycling and holds significant potential for the future. He emphasised the importance of the trust placed in their technology and highlighted the construction of their largest recycling plant to date, with a capacity of up to 90,000 tonnes of ELTs annually, asserting their commitment to the circular economy in Europe. Klein noted that achieving a sustainable recycling system for used tyres requires a dedicated team and strong partnerships.
The new plant will be located at ATPC within the Port of Antwerp and Bruges (PoAB), a key industrial hub in Europe that houses the continent’s largest integrated chemical cluster. VTTI’s strategic location within the PoAB ensures connectivity through a comprehensive pipeline network and proximity to both upstream and downstream industrial centers. Additionally, the site offers close access to Europe’s largest ELT markets, including Germany, the UK, and France, making it ideal for a large-scale recycling initiative.
The establishment of the waste tyre recycling plant supports the European Union’s Green Deal objectives. The European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP), a fundamental aspect of the Green Deal, aims to alleviate pressure on natural resources, promote sustainable economic growth, and contribute to the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal. Through this initiative, VTTI and Pyrum are actively participating in Europe’s transition to a circular economy, supporting both environmental sustainability and economic development.
Looking ahead, VTTI has already designated land at its Antwerp site for the project and is preparing for the permit application process. Market consultations regarding feedstock and the offtake of TPO and rCB will be conducted in due course.
With the contract signed, Pyrum will commence the engineering phase, revising and expanding the plant design to accommodate a capacity of 20,000 tonnes of end-of-life tyres per year, with the goal of optimizing it to process up to 90,000 tonnes of ELTs annually in Antwerp.
This partnership highlights VTTI’s ongoing commitment to pioneering the next generation of energy infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
For more information visit www.vtti.com
