Carbon Rivers Recognized as Innovator Recipient at Pinnacle Business Awards

The Knoxville Chamber is pleased to announce Carbon Rivers as the recipient of the Pinnacle Business Award in the Innovator category. Carbon Rivers reclaims glass fiber from a variety of production and waste streams to provide upcycled clean, high-quality glass fiber. The Innovator Award, sponsored by PureMagic Car Wash, is given to an East Tennessee business that has developed a new technology, innovative product or service, or applied a business system or service in an innovative way. 

“It is certainly rewarding to be the vanguard for two global technologies, but it is more satisfying to commercialize advanced technologies alongside some incredible team members who simply make life better,” said Bowie Benson, Carbon Rivers founder and CEO.

Carbon Rivers began in 2017 with just a few people in Benson’s basement. The group of chemical and material scientists sought to commercialize global-impacting technologies. First, Carbon Rivers proved out the technology for glass fiber reclamation. Second, Carbon Rivers developed a pristine graphene. From concrete and EV battery management to coatings and ballistic armor, pristine graphene makes current composite materials either better or obsolete. For example, pristine graphene can be used to create a tire that can last 200,000 miles, or transmission lines that are cheaper and faster throughout the US power grid.

“Many people don’t realize the transformative technology being developed right here in our region. Not only does it have a direct impact on our community, but it will also soon have a direct impact on the world,” said Mike Odom, Knoxville Chamber president and CEO. “I am thankful for the contributions being made by companies like Carbon Rivers that continue to drive regional economic prosperity.”

The annual Pinnacle Business Awards, presented by UScellular, celebrate regional business excellence, honoring outstanding professionals in nine categories for their contributions to the greater Knoxville economy. Winners are selected by the Knoxville Chamber Board of Directors. Over 100 companies were nominated for 2022 recognition.

“UScellular congratulates this year’s winners and is honored to be part of this vibrant business community. We are proud to directly help local businesses thrive by providing wireless and smart technology, high-speed internet, fleet management and data security to enable their goals. As we reflect on winners of the Pinnacle Business Awards, remember that we are all invested in each other’s success. Stay involved, reach out and collaborate, and make the most of Knoxville’s amazing environment,” said Jenn Simmons, business account manager. “Together, we can continue to drive growth in our region.”

For in-depth video interviews and more information on the 2022 Pinnacle Business Award recipients, visit www.knoxvillechamber.com/pinnacle.