Thiele was selected for the Technical Award, the IISRP said, because of his contributions that have played a key role in shaping the global SR industry.
"His influential body of research, particularly his pioneering work in the field of functionalized synthetic rubber materials, has brought about transformative changes," the institute said. "This work has set new standards for the growth in the production of advanced synthetic rubber grades and directly contributed to innovation in the tire sector, with significant improvements in tire performance and sustainability."
Thiele earned his doctorate in chemistry from Westfaelische Wilhelms University in Muenster, Germany. His postdoctoral activities included research projects with Solvay and DSM. Since 1997, he held industrial R&D positions at Trinseo, Dow and DSM. He joined Synthos in 2021, after the firm acquired the synthetic rubber business of Trinseo.
"This transition has further established his leadership, driving the SSBR process and product development activities of Europe's largest synthetic rubber producer toward more advanced and sustainable commercial materials," the IISRP said.
His prior awards include the 2011 IQ Innovation Award in the chemistry/plastics category, the 2015 DKG Product Award and the 2017 Hugo Junkers Award for Best Product Development.
"Throughout his career, Dr. Thiele has been an active voice in the global technical conference circuit. His presentations have greatly contributed to the advancement of synthetic rubber, solidifying his reputation as a respected industry expert," the association said.
The IISRP has more than 50 corporate members from 23 countries that collectively produce 75 percent of the world's synthetic rubber.
It last presented its awards at the 2022 AGM, when Liang Amin of China's Sinopec received the General Award, and Lucio Spelta, retired from Versalis A.G., was honored with the Technical Award.