Versalis and Pirelli have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to start a joint research project for the use of guayule-based natural rubber in tyre production.
The research project will run for a period of three years with Versalis providing a range of guayule-based natural rubber materials, while Pirelli will carry out trial tests to validate the performance of the materials for tyre production.
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As soon as new industrial quantities become available, Versalis will supply Pirelli with guayule-based natural rubber to complement the current set of synthetic rubber the company is already supplying to Pirelli for the production of conventional tyres.
The agreement with Pirelli follows the announcement of a partnership between Versalis and Yulex Corporation USA for guayule production and for the construction of an industrial complex to be based in Southern Europe.
Guayule (Parthenium argentatum) is a renewable, non-food crop that requires little water usage, no pesticides and is an alternative source of natural rubber thanks to its latex, allergy-friendly properties.
“This new partnership between Versalis and Pirelli builds on a series of initiatives to develop technologies for tyre applications with a focus on performance and energy efficiency,” said Versalis CEO, Daniele Ferrari.
“Both companies are well-established industry leaders at an international level – they represent a sound model for commitment to all levels of research including the green sector.”
