SpaceBlue

SpaceBlue invented and developed a graphene-enhanced recycled rubber floor mat to address the global problem of waste tyre, currently being burned or going to landfill.

SpaceBlue is a Manchester-based start-up (started with the support of the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre at the University of Manchester) that came up with a novel solution to address the waste tyre issue by developing a graphene-enhanced recycled rubber product- the SpaceMat. It is said by the company to be the best option to replace synthetic mat, disposal of which is a cause of pollution leading to an environmental disaster.

SpaceMat can be used as a doormat at the entrances of homes, offices, public and industrial buildings in addition to its wider applications as an anti-fatigue and an anti-slip at areas like workplace, gym, playground and swimming pool. We reviewed the SpaceMat in December 2020.

The intention of SpaceBlue is to enhance the physical properties of recycled end-of-life rubber waste of vehicle tyres, footwear and rubber hand gloves to bring out a high-value product. SpaceMat is made of up to 80% recycled rubber and graphene-enhanced 20% natural rubber. Floor mats undergo compression, and fundamental study had shown that by adding graphene into the rubber, it can double the compression strength, and this increases the durability of the SpaceMat.