ANTOFAGASTA, February 2025. Taking another step toward its circularity goal, Michelin proudly announces the start of operations of its first mining tire recycling plant, “MSMR La Negra,” in the Antofagasta region. With this project, the company aims to contribute to the management and recycling of end-of-life tires (ELT) from the mining industry, promoting a more sustainable future. Owned by Michelin, MSMR (Michelin Specialty Materials Recovery) was founded in 2020 and represents the company’s first giant mining tire recycling plant worldwide.
This plant specializes in cutting and shredding giant mining tires to obtain rubber chips, which are subsequently transformed into micronized rubber powder (MRP), a renewable and recycled raw material used in the manufacture of new tires, as well as other products. Kamal Abi Farag, MSMR Director in Chile, emphasizes that for Michelin, the circular economy is a source of inspiration that challenges the company to create a model of inclusive and sustainable prosperity. In his words: “Circularity is how we can shape the future, and at Michelin we are committed to being part of the solution, not only in terms of technological innovation but also as a key player in developing a recycling ecosystem in Chile and South America.”
An Innovation Model. The MSMR La Negra plant is located on a 7,725 m² site in the La Negra industrial area in Antofagasta and has the capacity to process 2,200 giant 63-inch tires per year. Currently, the plant employs 20 people directly and 100 indirectly. MSMR La Negra operates under strict environmental standards, complying with sanitary resolutions and regulations from the Ministry of the Environment, as well as aligning with Chile’s Extended Producer Responsibility (REP) Law.
This allows customers to return ELTs to the manufacturer, ensuring they are properly recycled to become new products again. To guarantee maximum efficiency in its processes, MSMR has established agreements with internationally renowned recycling companies. The plant features cutting equipment from the Italian company Salvadori, adapted and protected by Michelin’s intellectual property, as well as shredding equipment from the Danish company ELDAN. These innovations ensure that giant mining tires are processed efficiently and safely.
About Michelin: A leader in mobility, Michelin is dedicated to sustainably improving the mobility of its customers by designing and distributing tires, services, and solutions tailored to their needs. It also offers digital services, maps, and guides to enrich travel and make it a unique experience. Additionally, Michelin develops high-tech materials for various industries. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin operates in 175 countries, employs 132,200 people, and runs 67 tire production plants, which together manufactured approximately 167 million tires in 2023. (www.michelin.com)
Source: Michelin Chile Communications Department.
