Bridgestone launches pilot project in Ohio to produce synthetic rubber from plant-based ethanol

Bridgestone Americas is launching a pilot project to produce butadiene, a key ingredient in synthetic rubber, from plant-based ethanol instead of fossil fuels. The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded the company a $9.28 million grant for this initiative. The pilot plant will be located in Akron, Ohio, at Bridgestone's research facility. The project aims to determine the economic viability of using ethanol for butadiene production within three years, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of tire manufacturing. Bridgestone plans to achieve an 85% reduction in carbon emissions from butadiene production. The company is committed to using sustainable materials in tire production by 2050, including exploring natural rubber sources.