Improved Recyclability of Rubber-metal Composites Using Localized Inductive Thermal Separation

Rubber-metal composites, such as rubber tracks and pads for construction and agricultural machinery, rely on robust adhesion to withstand mechanical stresses and harsh environmental conditions. However, their effective recycling is significantly hindered by the difficulty of separating strongly bonded components. Conventional recycling techniques, including mechanical milling, waterjet separation, and standard thermal processing, often result in excessive energy consumption, long processing times, or material degradation. Compared to inductive heating, these methods typically require significantly more energy, leading to higher associated emissions. This study investigates a new recycling approach based on localized inductive thermal treatment, targeting specifically the adhesive bonding layers. Specimens of rubber-metal composites were thermally treated at temperatures between 150 °C and 300 °C for durations ranging from 1 to 10 min to assess their separation efficiency and subsequent changes in mechanical and adhesive properties. Results indicated that the adhesive layer could be effectively degraded at temperatures significantly below the decomposition point of rubber, enabling clean separation of metal components while preserving the integrity of the rubber material. The metal inserts remained unaffected, allowing direct reuse. This targeted thermal separation method demonstrates substantial potential for advancing a circular economy for rubber-metal composites. By enabling clean separation, the process allows direct reuse of the metal inserts and preserves the rubber for subsequent material‑recycling routes, such as high‑quality regrinding instead of destructive thermal treatment. This approach significantly reduces energy requirements and associated CO₂ emissions compared to conventional methods, offering a viable path for resource preservation and reduced landfilling.