In a groundbreaking initiative promising to transform both vehicular travel and waste management, researchers from the University of Edinburgh are developing new adaptive technology to create sustainable tyres from an unusual source: leftover food.
This interdisciplinary project, soon to become a spinout company, is drawing expertise from biotechnologists, climate scientists and finance specialists to tackle the pervasive problem of pothole damage amid changing climate conditions.
Potholes, exacerbated by increasingly erratic weather patterns, pose a significant issue for injury prevention and infrastructure maintenance. Researchers are addressing this by using sophisticated climate modelling to predict the occurrence and severity of potholes, allowing for pre-emptive actions.
However, the most transformative aspect of the project comes from bioengineering experts, where food waste from the University's canteens is being repurposed into flexible, jelly-like car tyres.
These edible tyres, available in a variety of flavours, not only provide a delicious end-of-life option but also boast increased adaptability to irregular road surfaces, reducing damage and enhancing the driving experience.
The use of food by-products links directly with sustainability goals and promotes a circular economy, a process where nothing goes to waste.
Financial studies conducted by the University's economics experts have revealed that investing in these innovative tyres is more cost-effective than maintaining roads. This finding has been substantiated by successful trials on the King’s Buildings campus, leading to significant interest from local authorities plagued by similar road quality issues.
Dr Andrea Taylor, CEO of Edinburgh Innovations, the University’s commercialisation service, said:
Supporting the spinning out of this exciting technology exemplifies Edinburgh Innovations’ commitment to fostering transformative, interdisciplinary research. Our role is to facilitate these innovations reaching markets efficiently, helping solve pressing global challenges in alignment with the University’s key research missions."
Edinburgh Innovations is currently assisting the project team in managing the high volume of inquiries from municipalities interested in this cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. Their support is crucial in transitioning from the proof-of-concept stage to widespread implementation that could redefine urban transport infrastructure.
