Bridgestone/Kirin Holdings: Joint development for Guayule-derived NR

Bridgestone Corporation announced the development of a new technology for improving guayule-derived natural rubber productivity through a joint development project with Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin Holdings) in January 2021. The project combines the technologies of Kirin Holdings with the guayule cultivation expertise of Bridgestone to deliver large-scale propagation of guayule plants from high-quality seeds. With this innovation, Bridgestone aims to increase the productivity of guayule farms and advance sustainable materials for tires through the diversification of the world's natura rubber supply.

Utilizing the Kirin Holdings' bio technology, Bridgestone will develop the technology for propagating massive stable quality guayule for practical use. (Source: Bridgestone)

Bridgestone will field test the new technology on guayule seedlings grown at its 287-acre Agro Operations Research Farm in Eloy, Arizona, USA. The new technology may also be used to support the guayule breeding process to more rapidly increase a desired genotype for testing and production. Through these efforts and others, Bridgestone seeks to develop alterantive and viable sources for tire-grade natural rubber, reducing its long-term environmental impact and simultaneously furthering its business. Bridgestone launched its guayule research and development efforts in 2013 to help diversify the world's natural rubber supply. Utilizing the Kirin Holdings' bio technology, Bridgestone will develop the technology for propagating massive stable quality guayule for practical use. In addition to the Agro Operations Research Farm in Eloy, Bridgestone operates the Biorubber Process Research Center in nearby Mesa, Arizona, where a team processes guayule-derived natural rubber for testing in tire applications.

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www.kirinholdings.co.jp