Definitions and Specifications

Devulcanization is the breakdown of the bonds that provide rubber with its structural integrity.

Gasification is a thermal process that turns a percentage of a scrap tire into a salable gas.

Pyrolysis is the thermal distillation of waste tires in the absence of oxygen.

Waste tires are defined in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Section 42807 (Waste Tire) as follows:

"…Waste tire means a tire that is no longer mounted on a vehicle and is no longer suitable for use as a vehicle tire due to wear, damage, or deviation from the manufacturer's original specifications. A waste tire includes a repairable tire (PRC § 42805.5), scrap tire (PRC § 42805.6), and altered waste tire (PRC § 42801.5), but does not include a tire derived product (PRC § 42805.7), crumb rubber (PRC § 42801.7), or a used tire that is organized for inspection and resale by size in a rack or a stack in accordance with Section 42806.5."

This guide also contains information regarding end markets for whole tires, shredded tires and crumb rubber produced from waste tires.

Last updated: December 02, 2007

Waste Tire Marketing Guide: http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Tires/MarketGuide/
Calvin Young: cyoung@ciwmb.ca.gov (916) 341-6670