Black Donuts working on bio-materials for tire treads

Helsinki – Black Donuts Inc. is developing bio-based material for tire treads, with industrial-scale production expected in the “near future,” according to founder and CEO Kai Hauvala.

In its 2024 annual report, the company said research and product development on the new bio-based raw material progressed as planned during the financial year.

It aims to secure the investment financing needed for production and commercialisation in the first half of 2025.

Black Donuts said the innovation could help tire manufacturers reduce traffic-related tire emissions that are harmful to human health.

Looking further ahead, the company plans to introduce the new bio-based raw material solutions within four to six years, which it claims could replace up to 20% of currently used fossil raw materials, primarily in tire treads.

The Finnish company is also working on recycling solutions for non-wearing parts of the tire.

The bio-based initiative forms part of a broader R&D programme focused on renewable and recycled materials.

The project began in 2024 as a continuation of earlier work on EV winter tires and biomaterial development completed in the previous year.