Sri Lankan vein graphite: a natural resource driving innovation in industrial tires

Abstract

Sri Lanka is well known for its natural rubber and the world’s only commercial deposits of vein graphite—two rare resources with significant industrial value. For decades, these sectors have operated independently. Recent research at the University of Moratuwa demonstrates how combining these materials can generate a new class of high-performance industrial tire compounds with improved safety, reliability, and export value. This article highlights the key findings, industrial relevance, and the national value addition potential of incorporating Sri Lankan vein graphite into solid industrial tire compounds.