Elkem unlocks new mechanical recycling pathway for silicone rubber reinforcing circularity leadership

The innovation enables the recycling of crosslinked HCR waste and the reintroduction of the recycled material into new formulations. With re-incorporation rates exceeding 50% and excellent mechanical properties of the resulting material, Elkem demonstrates how advanced material engineering can unlock scalable circular approaches for high-performance silicone elastomers that help reduce waste and carbon footprint, while meeting growing market demand for circular elastomer solutions.

“This breakthrough demonstrates the power of purpose-driven innovation aligned with market expectations,” said Joséphine Munsch, R&T sustainability leader at Elkem. “After two years of development, we are proud to present a first proof of concept for mechanical recycling of HCR, opening the door to new industrial applications and reinforcing our ambition to leverage pragmatic, science-driven solutions to lead and accelerate the transition to a circular economy for silicones.”

The innovation comes as an expansion to Elkem’s silicone recycling strategy, now covering both chemical and mechanical recycling routes. The integration of several recycling approaches allows Elkem to tailor solutions based on waste type, carbon footprint goals, and desired product performance — supporting our ambition to build a smart and efficient circular economy for silicones.

This development is one result of the open innovation project “RENOV” (Recycling & Reincorporation of Elastomer Materials), whose goal is to develop technologies for the characterization and recycling of crosslinked elastomer waste, enabling optimal reintegration into formulations containing virgin elastomers for identical applications. It also aims to evaluate market acceptance for new materials such as mechanically recycled HCR to help pinpoint applications creating the most environmental and commercial benefits. Launched in 2023, it brings together Elkem, Hutchinson, Nexans, and CNRS-affiliated laboratories IMP, CP2M, and ISA, including Axel’One work, supported by the French environment agency ADEME .

Elkem will showcase recycled material samples and discuss our mechanical recycling technology at K 2025, the world’s number one trade fair for plastics and rubbers from October 7 to 14, 2025 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Meet the company’s technical and sustainability experts in Hall 7A, stand B16.

High Consistency Rubbers, also known as Heat Cured Rubbers or High Temperature Vulcanizing silicone rubbers (HTV), exhibit exceptional mechanical strength, stability over time, and electrical insulation properties. They are chemically inert, nonflammable, and thermally stable at temperatures ranging from -120°C to beyond +300°C depending on the grade. These unique properties make them essential materials in a wide array of applications, including electric and hybrid vehicles, aerospace and defense equipment, medical tubes and catheters, temporary and long-term implants, electronic devices, kitchenware and other consumer applications.

About Elkem

Elkem is one of the world’s leading providers of advanced silicon-based materials shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 7,200 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2024, Elkem achieved an operating income of NOK 33 billion. Elkem has been awarded top score of A on Forests and Water Security, and B on Climate Change from CDP. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK), where the company is also included in the ESG Index. 

To learn more, please visit: www.elkem.com

 Media contact:
Corinne Bechet
[email protected]

Photos 1 & 1: Mechanical-recycling-Rubber - Joséphine Munsch, R&T sustainability leader at Elkem (left) in the HCR Conception R&T Lab, ©Elkem

Photo 3: Sample-of- Mechanical-recycling-Rubber © Elkem