Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Tire Conversion Technologies, Inc. (TCT) of Latham, NY are teaming up on a 12-month project to improve and implement a novel manufacturing process with US origins but only European execution, to date, that involves binder-less compression molding of “crumb” rubber from recycled tires for solar, safety and environmental containment products. This technological advance could allow TCT to reduce product cost by 50%, generate unique IP, undercut foreign and domestic competition, push deeper penetration into domestic and international markets, and enter into markets currently out of reach due to price. If successful, expected economic impact within three years includes a 230% increase in sales volume, 20 new employees, up to $320K in capital expenditures, and opening up a second facility in NY State.