Rubber compound, rubber product and tire

Abstract

RUBBER COMPOSITION, RUBBER PRODUCT AND TIRE. The present invention relates to rubber compositions suitable for tire manufacturing comprising a functionalized polymer and a functionalized silica.

Description

Rubber composition, rubber product and tire DESCRIPTION Field of Invention:

[0001] The present invention provides rubber compositions suitable for the manufacture of tires which comprise a functionalized polymer and a functionalized silica. The present invention further provides rubber products and tires produced from these rubber compositions. Background:

[0002] The demand for vehicles with lower fuel consumption is growing with the global movement towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions. To meet this demand, lower tire rolling resistance is necessary. From the point of view of improving driving safety, it is also important to ensure that grip performance on wet surfaces (wet performance) is maximized. Wear resistance and toughness are additional important factors for improving tire manufacturing. Tire manufacturers can modify the components of the rubber compounds from which their tires are prepared to affect such properties. Functionalized polymers known in the art include those described in WO 2014 / 173706 A1. Functionalized filler materials, such as those described in WO 2015 / 121333 A1, are additionally known.

[0003] When developing a rubber compound for tire treads to improve tire rolling resistance, it is usually effective to consider a loss tangent (tano) close to 60°C as an index. Specifically, the use of a rubber compound with a low tano close to 60°C in the rubber Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 5 / 120 2 / 46 of the tread can suppress heat buildup in the tire to reduce rolling resistance, thereby improving the tire's fuel efficiency, as per document JP 2012-92179 A. Similarly, document JP 2014-9324 A describes a technique for improving the wet surface performance of a tire tread rubber compound. Wear resistance and toughness can also be measured using methods known in the art. Together, wet surface performance, rolling resistance, and wear resistance are known as the magic triangle of viscoelastic properties. There is a desire in the art to provide tires in which all these properties are improved. Summary of the Invention:

[0004] The present inventors have unexpectedly discovered that, by providing a rubber composition comprising a polymer functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups and a silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, tires produced from the rubber compositions have excellent wear resistance, rolling resistance, wet surface performance and toughness, and an excellent balance between these properties. In particular, an interactive and / or synergistic effect is observed on the viscoelastic properties of rubber products prepared from rubber compositions comprising both a functionalized polymer and a functionalized silica.

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention provides a rubber composition comprising: a rubber component comprising a solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (SSBR) with a functionalized end group, wherein the SSBR copolymer with the functionalized end group comprises terminal carboxyl groups; and Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 6 / 120 3 / 46 a functionalized silica, wherein functionalized silica is silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having:

[0006] - a specific surface area BET of 250 to 310 m2 / g;

[0007] - a specific surface area CTAB of 230 to 285 m2 / g;

[0008] - a carbon (C) content of at least 0.10% by weight of functionalized silica;

[0009] - an object size distribution width ratio (Ld) of at least 0.91; and

[0010] - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65.

[0011] The solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer with a functionalized terminal group (SSBR) may comprise carboxyl groups containing terminal silanes of Formula (I): R.| R3 Si---C---A---COOH R2R4 where:

[0012] R1 and R2 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylaryl, alkylaryloxy, aralkyl or aralkoxy radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si;

[0013] R3 and R4 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; and Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 7 / 120 4 / 46

[0014] A is a divalent organic radical, which may be an alkyl radical; one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiR8R9; or an alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms, preferably where the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiR8R9.

[0015] The silane-containing carboxyl group may be present as a carboxylate of Formula (II): “ r, r, Ί Mn+ R1 --Si---c---ACOO R2 R4 LΛ W where:

[0016] Ri and R2 are as defined above for Formula(I);

[0017] R3 and R4 are as defined above for Formula(I);

[0018] A is as defined above for Formula (I);

[0019] M is a metal or semimetal with valences 1 to 4, preferably Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Fe, Co, Ni, Al, Nd, Ti, Sn, Si, Zr, V, Mo, or W; en is an integer from 1 to 4.

[0020] The SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group can be obtained by reacting an SSBR copolymer with one or more functionalizing reagents in the form of silalactones. For example, silalactones can be compounds of Formula (III): R1 R2(ill) where:

[0021] Ri and R2 are as defined above for Formula (I); Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 8 / 120 5 / 46

[0022] Ra and R4 are as defined above for Formula (I); and

[0023] A is as defined above for Formula (I).

[0024] The silane-containing carboxyl group can be linked to the SSBR copolymer via one or more divalent structural elements of Formula (V): R5sí—o R6 (V) where:

[0025] n is an integer from 3 to 6;

[0026] R5, R6 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical;

[0027] which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S or Si.

[0028] Divalent structural elements of Formula (V) can be derived from cyclosiloxanes. For example, from cyclosiloxanes of Formula (IV): in which:

[0029] n is an integer from 3 to 6;

[0030] R5, R6 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical; Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 9 / 120 6 / 46

[0031] which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S or Si, more preferably wherein the divalent structural elements of Formula (V) may be derived from one or more cyclosiloxanes selected from the group consisting of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane.

[0032] Functionalized silica may comprise silica functionalized on its surface with one or more carboxyl groups. The carboxyl groups may be present as carboxylic acids and / or as carboxylate salts.

[0033] The carboxyl groups of functionalized silica may be derived from one or more carboxylic acids, for example, one or more polycarboxylic acids. The one or more polycarboxylic acids may contain two, three, four or more than four carboxylic groups. Preferably, the one or more polycarboxylic acids may be one or more selected from the group consisting of adipic acid, succinic acid, ethylsuccinic acid, glutaric acid, methylglutaric acid, oxalic acid and citric acid.

[0034] The carboxyl groups of functionalized silica can be derived by reacting silica with one or more carboxylic acids to form functionalized silica.

[0035] Functionalized silica has a specific Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area from 250 to 310 m2 / g. The specific Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area can preferably be from 270 to 300 m2 / g, more preferably from 280 to 290 m2 / g.

[0036] Functionalized silica has a surface area for cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) adsorption from 230 m2 / g to 285 m2 / g. The surface area for cetyltrimethylammonium bromide adsorption Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 10 / 120 7 / 46 cetyltrimethylammonium (CTAB) can preferably be from 240 m2 / ga to 270 m2 / g, more preferably from 245 m2 / ga to 265 m2 / g, and even more preferably from 250 m2 / ga to 260 m2 / g.

[0037] The functionalized silica has a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of the functionalized silica. The carbon content may preferably be at least 0.15% by weight, more preferably at least 0.20% by weight, even more preferably at least 0.25% by weight, most preferably at least 0.30% by weight of the functionalized silica.

[0038] Functionalized silica has an object size distribution width ratio Ld of at least 0.91. The object size distribution width ratio Ld is preferably at least 0.94.

[0039] Functionalized silica has a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65. The pore volume distribution is preferably at least 0.66, more preferably at least 0.68.

[0040] The functionalized silica may have a pH from 2.5 to 7, preferably from 2.5 to 5, more preferably from 3 to 4.5.

[0041] The ratio of the amount of functionalized silica in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component to the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component may be from 0.5:1 to 2:1, preferably from 0.75:1 to 1.50:1, more preferably from 0.9:1 to 1.40:1, even more preferably from 0.95:1 to 1.30:1.

[0042] The rubber composition may comprise:

[0043] 10.5 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 11 / 120 8 / 46

[0044] 20 to 200 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0045] The rubber composition may preferably comprise:

[0046] 40 to 90 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0047] 50 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0048] The rubber composition may, more preferably, comprise:

[0049] 50 to 80 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0050] 65 to 85 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0051] The rubber composition may, more preferably, comprise:

[0052] 55 to 75 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0053] 70 to 75 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0054] In a particular embodiment, the rubber composition may comprise:

[0055] 60 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0056] 72 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 12 / 120 9 / 46

[0057] In a particular embodiment, the rubber composition may comprise:

[0058] 70 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0059] 72 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0060] In a particular embodiment, the rubber composition may comprise:

[0061] 70 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with functionalized end group; and

[0062] 80 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the functionalized silica rubber component.

[0063] The rubber composition of the present invention may be composite.

[0064] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a rubber product comprising the rubber composition of the present invention, wherein the rubber composition is vulcanized.

[0065] A third aspect of the present invention relates to a tire comprising the rubber composition of the present invention or the rubber product of the present invention. Detailed Description:

[0066] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a rubber composition comprising: a rubber component comprising a solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer with a functionalized end group (SSBR), wherein the SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group comprises terminal carboxyl groups; and

[0067] a functionalized silica, wherein the functionalized silica is Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 13 / 120 10 / 46 a silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having:

[0068] - a specific surface area BET from 250 to 310 m2 / g;

[0069] - a specific surface area CTAB from 230 to 285 m2 / g;

[0070] - a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of functionalized silica;

[0071] - an object size distribution width ratio Ld of at least 0.91; and

[0072] - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65.

[0073] The rubber compositions of the present invention offer several advantages compared with rubber compositions known in the art. In particular, tires produced from the rubber compositions of the present invention have excellent wet surface performance, rolling resistance, wear resistance, and toughness, and an excellent balance between these properties. The combination of the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica has an interactive and / or synergistic impact on the properties of the rubber compositions and gives rise to the advantageous tire properties discussed above. Specifically, an interaction between the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica, which may be synergistic, leads to an unprecedented level of dispersion of the filler materials (in particular, the functionalized silica filler material) in the rubber compositions and rubber products of the present invention.This unprecedented dispersion has a positive impact on each of the following: wet surface performance, rolling resistance, wear resistance, and toughness. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 14 / 120 11 / 46 tires are produced from rubber compounds and offer an excellent balance between these properties. Solution Polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Copolymer with Functionalized End Group (SSBR)

[0074] The SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group may comprise a silane-containing carboxyl-terminated SSBR copolymer of Formula (I): R.|R3 --Si---C---ACOOH R2R4 L2 4J(i) where:

[0075] Ri and R2 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylaryl, alkylaryloxy, aralkyl or aralkoxy radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si;

[0076] R3 and R4 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; and,

[0077] A is a divalent organic radical, which may be an alkyl radical; one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiR8R9; or an alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiR8R9.

[0078] SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 15 / 120 12 / 46 may comprise a carboxyl-terminated silane-containing SSBR copolymer of Formula (I), wherein R1 and R2 are each independently hydrogen, a linear or branched C1 to C12 alkyl radical, a linear or branched C2 to C12 alkenyl radical, a linear or branched C1 to C12 alkoxy radical, a C3 to C12 cycloalkyl radical, a C2 to C12 cycloalkoxy radical, a C6 to C12 aryl radical, a C6 to C12 aryloxy radical, a C7 to C14 arylalkyl radical, a C7 to C14 alkylaryl radical, a C6 to C24 alkylaryloxy radical, a C5 to C24 aralkoxy radical or a C6 to C24 aralkoxy radical. Preferably, R1 and R2 can each independently be a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkyl radical, a linear or branched C2 to C6 alkenyl radical, a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkoxy radical, a C3 to C12 cycloalkyl radical, a C2 to C12 cycloalkoxy radical, or a C6 to C12 aryl radical. Preferably, R1 and R2 can each independently be a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkyl radical, a linear or branched C2 to C6 alkenyl radical, a linear or branched C1 to C6 alkoxy radical, or a C6 to C12 aryl radical.Preferably, R1 and R2 can each independently be a linear or branched C1 to C3 alkyl radical, a linear or branched C2 to C3 alkenyl radical, a linear or branched C1 to C3 alkoxy radical, or a C6 aryl radical. For example, R1 and R2 can each independently be a methyl, tert-butyl, prop-1-enyl, ethoxy, or phenyl radical. More preferably, R1 and R2 are methyl radicals.

[0079] R3 and R4 can each independently be hydrogen, a C1 to C12 linear or branched alkyl radical, a C3 to C12 cycloalkyl radical, a C6 to C12 aryl radical, a C5 to C24 alkyl radical, or a C5 to C24 alkyl radical. Preferably, R3 and R4 can each independently be hydrogen, a C1 to C6 linear or branched alkyl radical, a C2 to C6 linear or branched alkenyl radical, a C1 to C6 linear or branched alkoxy radical, or a C6 to C12 aryl radical. More preferably, R3 and R4 can each independently be hydrogen or a methyl radical. In a particular embodiment, R3 / R4 and A together form a C6 aryl radical.

[0080] A can independently be a substituted or unsubstituted linear C6 to C6 alkyl radical; one or more heteroatoms Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 16 / 120 13 / 46 selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiRsRg; or a substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C6 linear alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiRsRg. Preferably, A may independently be a substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C3 linear alkyl radical; one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiRsRg; or a substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C3 linear alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiRsRg. Where A is substituted, it may be substituted by one or more selected from the group consisting of a C1 to C6 linear alkyl radical and a C6 to C12 aryl radical. Preferably, A may be substituted by a C1 to C3 linear alkyl radical or a C6 aryl radical. More preferably, A can be replaced by a radical Ci.R7 can be hydrogen, a C1 to C6 linear alkyl, for example, methyl or trimethylsilyl. Rs and R9 can independently be C1 to C6 linear alkyl, for example, methyl. Preferably, A is a C2 alkyl radical containing an S atom. The structure of A as a C2 alkyl radical containing an S atom is shown below.

[0081] The carboxyl group containing silane may be present as a carboxylate of Formula (II): Ri R3 Si---C---A---COO R2R4 Mn+ Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 17 / 120 14 / 46 where:

[0082] Ri and R2 are as defined above for Formula (I);

[0083] R3 and R4 are as defined above for Formula (I); and,

[0084] A is as defined above for Formula (I); and,

[0085] M is a metal or semimetal with valences 1 to 4, for example, Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Fe, Co, Ni, Al, Nd, Ti, Sn, Si, Zr, V, Mo or W.

[0086] n is an integer from 1 to 4.

[0087] In compounds of Formula (II), M can be Li en can be 1.

[0088] The other definitions of R1, R2, R3, R4, R7, R8 and R9 in Formula (II) are the same as above for Formula (I).

[0089] The SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group can be obtained by reacting the SSBR copolymer with one or more functionalizing reagents in the form of silalactones. The silalactones can be compounds of Formula (III) R1 R2(ill) where:

[0090] R1 and R2 are as defined above for Formula (I);

[0091] R3 and R4 are as defined above for Formula (I); and

[0092] A is as defined above for Formula (I).

[0093] The other definitions of R1, R2, R3, R4, R7, Rs and R9 in Formula (III) are the same as described above for Formula (I).

[0094] Advantageously, the silalactones of Formula (III) may be one or more selected from the group consisting of 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2,5-trimethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2,4,5-tetramethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2-diethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-8-one, 2,2-diethoxy-1-oxa-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2-dimethyl-1,4-dioxa-2-Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 18 / 120 15 / 46 silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2,2,5-trimethyl-1,4-dioxa-2-silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2,2,3,3-tetramethyl-1,4-dioxa-2-silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa4-tia-2-silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2,2-diethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclo-hexan-6ona, 2,2-diphenyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2-methyl-2-ethenyl-1 oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclo-hexan-6-ona, 2,2,5-trimethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-4-aza-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2,4trimethyl-1-oxa-4-aza-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,4-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1-oxa-4aza-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2-dimethyl-4-trimethylsilyl-1-oxa-4-aza-2-silacyclohexan-8-one, 2,2-diethoxy-4-methyl-1-oxa-4-aza-2-silacyclohexan-6-one, 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1-oxa-2,4-disilacyclohexan-8-one, 3,4dihydro-3,3-dimethyl-1H-2,3-benzoxoxylo-1-ona, 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-2silacyclopentan-5-ona, 2,2,3-trimethyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclopenten-5-ona, 2,2dimethyl-4-phenyl-1-oxa-2-silacyclopentan-5-ona, 2,2,4-(terc-butyl)-1-oxa-2silacyclopentan-5-ona,2-methyl-2-(2-propen-1-yl)-1-oxa-2-silacyclopentan5-one, 1,1-dimethyl-2,1-benzoxasilol-3(1H)-one, 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-2silacycloheptan-7-one. Preferably, the silalactone of Formula (III) is 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclohexan-6-one. The structure of 2,2dimethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclohexan-6-one is shown below.

[0095] The silane-containing carboxyl group can be linked to the SSBR copolymer via one or more divalent structural elements of Formula (V): R5 Yes— R6(V) Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 19 / 120 16 / 46 where:

[0096] n is an integer from 3 to 6;

[0097] Rs, Re are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical;

[0098] which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S or Si.

[0099] When the divalent structural element is present, the SSBR copolymer is bonded to the silicon end of the divalent structural element as follows: Rf I POLYMER - 1 — Si—o — Re n ™

[0100] The carboxyl group containing silane of Formula (I) or (II) is attached to the oxygen end of the divalent structural element of Formula (V) when the divalent structural element is present.

[0101] The divalent structural elements of Formula (V) can be derived from cyclosiloxanes, such as cyclosiloxanes of Formula (IV): in which:

[0102] n is as defined above for Formula (V);

[0103] Rs, Re are as defined above for Formula (V).

[0104] Rs and Re can each be, independently, hydrogen, Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 20 / 120 17 / 46 a C1 to C12 linear or branched alkyl radical, C3 to C12 cycloalkyl, C6 to C12 aryl, C7 to C14 alkaryl or C7 to C14 alkaryl. Preferably, R5 and R6 can each be independently a C1 to C6 linear or branched alkyl radical, preferably a C1 to C3 linear alkyl, more preferably methyl.

[0105] The divalent structural elements of Formula (V) may be derived from one or more selected from the group consisting of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane. Preferably, the divalent structural element is derived from hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane.

[0106] It is particularly advantageous for the SSBR copolymer with a functionalized terminal group to be terminated with carboxyl groups containing silane derivatives of 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclohexan-6one that is linked to the polymer through a divalent structural element derived from hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane.

[0107] The SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group may have a styrene content from 10% to 30% by weight of the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group, preferably 15% to 25% by weight, more preferably 20% to 22% by weight, for example, 20%, 21% or 22% by weight. The SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group may have a vinyl content from 50% to 75% by weight of the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group, preferably 50% to 65%, more preferably 60% to 65%, for example, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64% or 65% by weight of the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group.

[0108] The SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group may have average molar masses (number mean, Mn) starting from 10,000 to 2,000,000 g / mol, preferably 100,000 to 1,000,000 g / mol.

[0109] The SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 21 / 120 18 / 46 may have glass transition temperatures of -110 °C to +20 °C, preferably -60 °C to 0 °C, more preferably -40 °C to -10 °C, even more preferably -30 °C to -15 °C, most preferably -22 °C to 26 °C, for example, -22 °C, -23 °C, -24 °C, -25 °C or -26 °C.

[0110] The SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group may have a Mooney viscosity [ML 1+4 (100 °C)] from 10 to 200 Mooney units, for example, 30 to 150 Mooney units, 40 to 90 Mooney units, 50 to 60 Mooney units, for example, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60 Mooney units.

[0111] The SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group may be extended with an extender oil so that the extended SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group comprises from 1% to 10% of an extender oil, preferably 2.5% to 7.5%, more preferably 5% of extender oil.The extender oil may be one or more selected from the group consisting of DAE (Distilled Aromatic Extract), TDAE (Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract), MES (Soft Extraction Solvate), RAE (Residual Aromatic Extract), TRAE (Treated Residual Aromatic Extract), naphthenic oil, heavy naphthenic oils, paraffin oils, vegetable oils such as coconut oil, synthetic oils such as alkylbenzene oils and castor oils. Preferably, the SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group is extended with an aromatic oil, such as Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract (TDAE) oil, such that the extended functionalized end group SSBR copolymer comprises 5% Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract oil.

[0112] The synthesis of SSBR copolymers terminated with carboxyl groups and the compounds of Formulas (I) to (V) above is discussed in detail, for example, in International Patent Application number WO 2014 / 173706 A1. Functionalized Silica Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 22 / 120 19 / 46

[0113] Functionalized silica is silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having:

[0114] - a specific surface area BET from 250 and 310 m2 / g;

[0115] - a specific surface area CTAB from 230 and 285 m2 / g;

[0116] - a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of functionalized silica;

[0117] - an object size distribution width ratio Ld of at least 0.91; and

[0118] - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65.

[0119] The synthesis of functionalized silicas is discussed in detail in International Patent Application number WO 2015 / 121333 A1. However, in general, the preparation of functionalized silica is carried out by means of a precipitation reaction of a silicate, such as an alkali metal silicate (e.g., sodium silicate), with an acidifying agent (e.g., sulfuric acid), then separation by filtration, producing a filter cake of the precipitated silica obtained, followed by liquefaction of said filter cake and finally drying (usually by atomization). Silica can be precipitated by any method: in particular, by adding an acidifying agent to a silicate feedstock or by the simultaneous total or partial addition of an acidifying agent and silicate to a water or silicate feedstock.One or more polycarboxylic acids are added to the filter cake, either during the liquefaction operation or after the liquefaction operation and before the drying step.

[0120] Functionalized silica may comprise silica functionalized on its surface with one or more carboxyl groups. The carboxyl groups may be present as carboxylic acids and / or Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 23 / 120 20 / 46 as carboxylate salts. The carboxyl groups may comprise a polycarboxylic acid containing two, three, four, or more than four carboxylic acid functional groups. The polycarboxylic acid may be a dicarboxylic acid or a tricarboxylic acid. The polycarboxylic acid may be a linear or branched aliphatic polycarboxylic acid, saturated or unsaturated, containing from 2 to 20 carbon atoms, or an aromatic polycarboxylic acid. The polycarboxylic acid may comprise hydroxyl groups and / or halogen atoms. The aliphatic polycarboxylic acid may comprise heteroatoms in the main chain, for example, N or S. The polycarboxylic acid may be one or more selected from the group consisting of linear, branched, saturated, unsaturated aliphatic polycarboxylic acids containing from 2 to 16 carbon atoms and aromatic polycarboxylic acids.

[0121] Aliphatic polycarboxylic acids may consist of linear, saturated or unsaturated polycarboxylic acids containing from 2 to 14 carbon atoms, for example, from 2 to 12 carbon atoms. The polycarboxylic acid may contain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 carbon atoms. Advantageously, the polycarboxylic acid may contain 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 carbon atoms, for example, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 carbon atoms. The polycarboxylic acid may contain 4, 5 or 6 carbon atoms.

[0122] The polycarboxylic acid may be one or more selected from the group consisting of oxalic acid, malonic acid, tricarbalicylic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, azelaic acid, sebacic acid, methylsuccinic acid, ethylsuccinic acid, methyladipic acid, methylglutaric acid, dimethylglutaric acid, malic acid, citric acid, isocitric acid, and tartaric acid. Preferably, the polycarboxylic acid is one or more selected from the group consisting of adipic acid, Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 24 / 120 21 / 46 succinic acid, ethylsuccinic acid, glutaric acid, methylglutaric acid, oxalic acid and citric acid.

[0123] Functionalized silica has a specific Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area from 250 to 310 m2 / g. The specific Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area is preferably from 270 to 300 m2 / g, more preferably 280 to 290 m2 / g, for example, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289 or 290 m2 / g.

[0124] Functionalized silica has a surface area for cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) adsorption from 230 m2 / ga to 285 m2 / g. The surface area for cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) adsorption can preferably be from 240 m2 / ga to 270 m2 / g, more preferably from 245 m2 / ga to 265 m2 / g, even more preferably from 250 m2 / ga to 260 m2 / g, for example, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259 or 260 m2 / g.

[0125] Functionalized silica can have a pH from 2.5 to 7, preferably from 2.5 to 5, more preferably from 3 to 4.5, for example, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 or 4.5.

[0126] The functionalized silica has a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of the functionalized silica. The carbon content (indicated (C)) is the carbon content of the carboxylic acid plus the corresponding carboxylate, expressed as total carbon. The carbon content may preferably be at least 0.15% by weight, more preferably at least 0.20% by weight, even more preferably at least 0.25% by weight, most preferably at least 0.30% by weight of the functionalized silica.

[0127] Functionalized silica has an object size distribution width ratio Ld of at least 0.91. The object size distribution width ratio Ld is preferably, Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 25 / 120 22 / 46 at least 0.94. As used in this document, the object size distribution width ratio is the object size distribution width ratio (Ld), measured through particle size analysis by X-ray disk centrifugation (XDC), after ultrasonic deagglomeration (in water), and corresponds to the ratio (d84-d16) / d50, where dn is the size for which n % of particles (by mass) are smaller than this size (the distribution width Ld is thus calculated on the cumulative particle size curve, taken in its entirety).The size distribution width Ld of objects smaller than 500 nm, measured by XDC particle size analysis after ultrasonic deagglomeration (in water), corresponds to the ratio (d84-d16) / d50 where dn is the size for which n% of particles (by mass), relative to particles smaller than 500 nm, are smaller than this size (the distribution width Ld is thus calculated on the cumulative particle size curve, truncated above 500 nm). The object size distribution width, as used in this document, is measured according to the method described in WO 2015 / 121333 A1.

[0128] Functionalized silica has a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65. The pore volume distribution is preferably at least 0.66, more preferably at least 0.68. Pore volumes and pore diameters are measured by mercury (Hg) porosimetry using a Micromeritics Autopore 9520 porosimeter and are calculated using the Washburn relationship with a contact angle theta equal to 140° and a surface tension gamma equal to 484 dynes / cm (DIN 66133 standard). The preparation of each sample is carried out as follows: each sample is pre-dried in an oven at 200 °C for 2 hours. As used in this document, the pore volume distribution ratio is the volume distribution Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 26 / 120 23 / 46 of pores such that the ratio V(d5 - d50) / V(d5 - d100) is at least 0.65, preferably at least 0.66, more preferably at least 0.68. V(d5 - d50) represents the pore volume consisting of pores between d5 and d50 in diameter and V(d5 - d100) represents the pore volume consisting of pores between d5 and d100 in diameter, dn being, in this document, the pore diameter for which n% of the total surface area of ​​all pores consists of pores that have a diameter greater than this diameter (the total surface area of ​​pores (S0) can be determined from the mercury intrusion curve). The pore volume distribution ratio, as used in this document, is measured according to the method described in WO 2015 / 121333 A1.

[0129] The amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica and the amounts of these two components relative to each other in the rubber compositions can have an advantageous effect on the properties of the rubber compositions of the present invention and tires produced from them.

[0130] The amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group can be from 10.5 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably 40 to 90 parts by weight, more preferably 50 to 80 parts by weight, even more preferably 55 to 75 parts by weight, for example, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. In specific examples, the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group can be 60 parts by weight or 70 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0131] The amount of functionalized silica can be from 20 Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 27 / 120 24 / 46 to 200 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably 50 to 100 parts by weight, more preferably 65 to 85 parts by weight, even more preferably 70 to 75 parts by weight, for example, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. In specific examples, the amount of functionalized silica may be 72 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0132] As mentioned above, the amounts of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica relative to each other in rubber compounds can have an advantageous effect on the properties of rubber compounds and tires produced from them. The ratio of functionalized silica to SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group, in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, can be from 0.5:1 to 2:1, preferably from 0.75:1 to 1.50:1, more preferably from 0.9:1 to 1.40:1, and even more preferably from 0.95:1 to 1.30:1, for example, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, 1.00, 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22, 1.23, 1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28.Tires produced from rubber compounds with these relative amounts of functionalized silica and SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group have excellent wet surface performance, rolling resistance, wear resistance and toughness, and a better balance between these properties compared to compounds in which one or both of the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica are absent.

[0133] When the amount of functionalized silica in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component is Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 28 / 120 25 / 46 greater than the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, tires produced from rubber compounds exhibit particularly enhanced wear resistance, as well as excellent rolling resistance, wet performance and toughness, and an excellent balance between these properties when compared with tires produced from compounds in which the relative amounts of these components are different or compared with compounds in which either the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group or the functionalized silica is absent.In other words, these enhanced properties are achieved when the ratio of the amount of functionalized silica to the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component is greater than 1:1, preferably 1.01:1 to 1.50:1, 1.01:1 to 1.40:1 or 1.01:1 to 1.30:1, for example, 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22, 1.23, 1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.29 or 1.30:1.

[0134] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a rubber composition comprising:

[0135] 58 to 73 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component of a functionalized polymer, wherein the functionalized polymer is a polymer functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups; and

[0136] 70 to 75 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component of a functionalized silica, wherein the functionalized silica is a silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having:

[0137] - a specific surface area BET from Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 29 / 120 26 / 46 250 to 310 m2 / g;

[0138] - a specific surface area CTAB from 230 to 285 m2 / g;

[0139] - a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of functionalized silica;

[0140] - an object size distribution width ratio (Ld) of at least 0.91; and

[0141] - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65;

[0142] wherein the ratio of the amount of functionalized silica to the amount of functionalized polymer in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component is from 1.01:1 to 1.30:1; and

[0143] where the pH of functionalized silica is from 3.5 to 4.5.

[0144] Furthermore, it has been found that higher amounts of functionalized silica can, in particular, improve the wear resistance properties of tires produced from the rubber compositions of the present invention. For example, tires produced from rubber compositions comprising functionalized silica in an amount of 75 or more parts by weight, for example, 75 to 200 parts by weight, 75 to 150 parts by weight, 75 to 100 parts by weight or 75 to 85 parts by weight, for example, 80 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, possess excellent wear resistance properties. In particular, including the higher amounts of functionalized silica discussed above in rubber compositions in which the amount of functionalized silica is greater than the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group as discussed above results in extremely good wear resistance properties. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 30 / 120 27 / 46

[0145] The present invention further provides a rubber composition comprising:

[0146] 68 to 72 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component of a solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (SSBR) with a functionalized end group, wherein the end group comprises one or more carboxyl groups; and

[0147] 77.5 to 82.5 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component of a functionalized silica, wherein the functionalized silica is a silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having:

[0148] - a specific surface area BET from 250 to 310 m2 / g;

[0149] - a specific surface area CTAB from 230 to 285 m2 / g;

[0150] - a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of functionalized silica;

[0151] - an object size distribution width ratio (Ld) of at least 0.91; and

[0152] - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65;

[0153] wherein the ratio of the amount of functionalized silica to the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group in parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component is from 1.01:1 to 1.15:1; and wherein the pH of the functionalized silica is from 3 to 4.5. Additional Components

[0154] In addition to the SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group and functionalized silica, the rubber compositions of the present invention may contain other components. These additional components may include one or more selected from Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 31 / 120 28 / 46 of the group consisting of additional polymers (which are different from the SSBR copolymers with functionalized end groups discussed above), vulcanizing agents, vulcanizing accelerators, vulcanizing accelerator aids, fillers, silane coupling agents, anti-degradation agents such as antioxidants or antiozonants, waxes and oils. For example, the compositions of the present invention may further comprise an additional polymer, a vulcanizing agent, a vulcanizing accelerator, a vulcanizing accelerator aid, a carbon black, a silane coupling agent, an anti-degradation agent, a wax and an oil.

[0155] The additional polymer of the rubber compositions is not particularly limited (except that it is different from the SSBR copolymers with functionalized end groups discussed above) and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. The additional polymer may comprise a diene polymer and / or a diene copolymer obtained by copolymerization of diene monomers with aromatic vinyl monomers. For example, the additional polymer may comprise one or more selected from the group consisting of polybutadiene, polyisoprene, butadiene-isoprene copolymer, styrene-butadiene copolymer, isoprene-styrene copolymer or butadiene-isoprene-styrene terpolymer. Preferably, the additional polymer is a solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer, for example, BUNA® VSL 3038-2HM from Arlanxeo. The additional polymer may be oil-extended.The extender oil may be one or more selected from the group consisting of DAE (Distilled Aromatic Extract), TDAE (Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract), MES (Soft Extraction Solvate), RAE (Residual Aromatic Extract), TRAE (Treated Residual Aromatic Extract), naphthenic oil, heavy naphthenic oils. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 32 / 120 29 / 46 paraffin oils, vegetable oils such as coconut oil, synthetic oils such as alkylbenzene oils and castor oils. Preferably, the extender oil is an aromatic oil, such as Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract (TDAE). The amount of oil present in the additional polymer can vary from 20% to 40% of the total amount of oil-extended additional polymer, for example, 27.3%. The amount of additional polymer is not particularly limited, but may be from 0 to 89.5 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably 10 to 60 parts by weight, more preferably 20 to 50 parts by weight, even more preferably 25 to 45 parts by weight, for example, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44 or 45 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0156] The vulcanizing agent of the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. For example, the vulcanizing agent may be sulfur. The amount of vulcanizing agent that the rubber compositions of the present invention comprise is not particularly limited, but may be from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. For example, the rubber composition may comprise from 0.1 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.1 to 1 part by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 1 part by weight, for example, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 or 1 part by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0157] The vulcanization accelerator for the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. For example, the vulcanization accelerator may be one or more Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 33 / 120 30 / 46 selected from the group consisting of a thiazole-type vulcanization accelerator, such as 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), dibenzothiazole disulfide (MBTS), N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (CBS) and N-tert-butyl-2-benzothiazolyl sulfenamide (TBBS); a guanidine-type vulcanization accelerator, such as 1,3-diphenyl guanidine (DPG); a thiuram-based vulcanization accelerator, such as tetramethyl thiuram disulfide, tetrabutyl thiuram disulfide, tetradodecyl thiuram disulfide, tetraoctyl thiuram disulfide and tetrabenzyl thiuram disulfide; and dithiocarbamate compounds, such as zinc dimethyl dithiocarbamate; and other zinc dialkyl dithiophosphoric acid compounds. Preferably, the vulcanization accelerator can be a combination of dibenzothiazole disulfide (MBTS), N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide (CBS), and 1,3-diphenylguanidine (DPG).The total quantity of vulcanization accelerator is not particularly limited, but may be from 0.2 to 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably from 0.5 to 8 parts by weight, more preferably from 1 to 5 parts by weight, even more preferably from 2 to 4 parts by weight, for example, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9 or 4 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. The quantity of each vulcanization accelerator can be from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably from 0.5 to 3 parts by weight, more preferably from 0.75 to 2 parts by weight, for example, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9 or 2 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.Preferably, the vulcanization accelerator for the rubber compositions of the present invention may comprise dibenzothiazole disulfide (MBTS) in an amount from 1 a. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 34 / 120 31 / 46 parts by weight, N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazyl sulfenamide (CBS) in the amount of 0.75 parts by weight and 1,3-diphenyl guanidine (DPG) in the amount of 1.3 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0158] The vulcanization accelerator auxiliary of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. For example, the vulcanization accelerator auxiliary may be zinc oxide (ZnO) and a fatty acid. The fatty acid may be any saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched fatty acid. The number of carbon atoms of the fatty acid is also not particularly limited, but may be from 1 to 30 or from 15 to 30.For example, the fatty acid may be one or more selected from the group consisting of cyclohexanoic acids (cyclohexane carboxylic acid), naphthenic acids with a side chain, such as alkyl cyclopentane, saturated fatty acids such as hexanoic acid, octanoic acid, decanoic acid (including branched carboxylic acids such as neodecanoic acid), dodecanoic acid, tetradecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid and octadecanoic acid (stearic acid), unsaturated fatty acids such as methacrylic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid, and resin acids such as rosin, tallow oil acid and abietic acid. Preferably, the vulcanization accelerator auxiliary of the present invention is zinc oxide (ZnO) and stearic acid.The total quantity of vulcanization accelerator auxiliary is not particularly limited, but may be from 1 to 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, for example, 1.5 to 7 parts by weight or 2 to 5 parts by weight, for example, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 or 5 parts by weight. Preferably, zinc oxide (ZnO) is present in an amount of 2 parts by weight and stearic acid is present in an amount of 1.5 parts. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 35 / 120 32 / 46 by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0159] The carbon black of the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. The carbon black may be furnace black, channel black, and lamp black. For example, the carbon black may be one or more selected from the group consisting of super abrasion furnace blacks (SAF), high abrasion furnace blacks (HAF), fast extrusion furnace blacks (FEF), fine furnace blacks (FF), super abrasion furnace blacks (ISAF), semi-reinforcement furnace blacks (SRF), intermediate processing channel blacks, hard processing channel blacks, and driving channel blacks. Other carbon blacks that may be used include acetylene blacks. The carbon black may be in pelletized form or a non-pelletized flocculant mass.A specific example of carbon black in the rubber compositions of the present invention is CORAX® N234 from Orion Engineered Carbons. The amount of carbon black that the rubber compositions of the present invention comprise is not particularly limited, but may be from 0.1 to 10 parts by weight of the rubber component, for example, from 0.5 to 5 parts by weight or from 1 to 4 parts by weight, for example, 1, 2, 3 or 4 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. Preferably, the carbon black is present in 2 to 3 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0160] Advantageously, the only silica-based filler material that the rubber compositions of the present invention comprise is the functionalized silica discussed above. In other words, no additional silica may be present. However, the presence of additional silica-based filler materials is not necessarily excluded from the present invention. Materials of Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 36 / 120 33 / 46 Additional silica-based fillers may include any of those known to those skilled in the art (not including the functionalized silica discussed above), including precipitated amorphous silica, wet silica (hydrated silicic acid), dry silica (anhydrous silicic acid), pyrogenated silica, calcium silicate, aluminum silicate, magnesium silicate (e.g., Mg2SiO4, MgSiO3), magnesium calcium silicate (CaMgSiO4), aluminum calcium silicate (e.g., Al2O3.CaO2SiO2).

[0161] The rubber composition may comprise additional filler materials known to those skilled in the art. For example, the rubber compositions of the present invention may comprise one or more selected from the group consisting of aluminum hydroxide, talc, alumina (Al2O3), aluminum hydroxide (Al2O3H2O), aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3), aluminum carbonate (Al2(CO3)2), aluminum magnesium oxide (MgOAl2O3), pyrophyllite (Al2O3.4SiO2.H2O), bentonite (Al2O3.4SiO2.2H2O), mica, kaolin, glass flakes, glass beads, calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2), magnesium oxide (MgO2), magnesium carbonate (MgCO3), potassium titanate, barium sulfate, zirconium oxide (ZrO2), zirconium hydroxide [Zr(OH)2.nH2O], zirconium carbonate [Zr(CO)3)2], crystalline aluminosilicates, zinc oxide reinforcing grades (i.e., zinc oxide reinforcing).The quantity of additional filler materials can range from 5 to 200 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, for example, 10 to 150 parts by weight or 25 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0162] The silane coupling agent of the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 37 / 120 34 / 46 being any of those known to those versed in the technique. For example, the silane coupling agent of the present invention may be one or more selected from the group consisting of bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide, bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl) trisulfide, bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl) disulfide, bis(2-triethoxysilylethyl) tetrasulfide, bis(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide, bis(2-trimethoxysilylethyl) tetrasulfide, 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltriethoxysilane, 2-mercaptoethyltrimethoxysilane, 2-mercaptoethyltriethoxysilane, 3-trimethoxysilylpropyl-N,N-dimethylthiocarbamoyl tetrasulfide, tetrasulfide of 3-trimethoxysilylpropyl-N,N-dimethylthiocarbamoyl, 2-N,N-dimethylthiocarbamoyl tetrasulfide, 2triethoxysilylethyl-N,N-dimethylthiocarbamoyl tetrasulfide, 3-trimethoxysilylpropylbenzothiazolyl tetrasulfide, 3-trimethoxysilylpropylbenzothiazolyl tetrasulfide, 3-triethoxysilylpropylbenzothiazolyl,3-triethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate monosulfide, 3-trimethoxysilylpropyl, propylmethacrylate monosulfide, 3-triethoxysilylpropylbenzothiazolyl tetrasulfide, 3-triethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate monosulfide, 3-trimethoxysilylpropyl, propylmethacrylate monosulfide, tetrasulfide 3-triethoxysilylpropylbenzothiazolyl monosulfide, 3-triethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate monosulfide, 3-trimethoxysilylpropylmethylmethacrylate monosulfide, bis-(3diethoxymethylmethylsilane) tetrasulfide, dimethoxysilylpropyl-N,Ndimethylthiocarbamoyl tetrasulfide and tetrasulfide dimethoxymethylsilylpropylbenzothiazolyl. Preferably, the silane coupling agent is bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide. A specific example of a silane coupling agent is Si 69® from Evonik Industries AG. The amount of silane coupling agent is not particularly limited.but it can be from 2 to 20 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, of, Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 38 / 120 35 / 46 preferably from 5 to 15 parts by weight, more preferably from 7 to 13 parts by weight, even more preferably from 9 to 12 parts by weight, for example, 9, 9.1, 9.2, 10.3, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, 10, 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, 10.7, 10.8, 10.9, 11, 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5, 11.6, 11.7, 11.8, 11.9 or 12 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0163] The oil of the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. For example, the oil of the present invention may be one or more selected from the group consisting of processed oils, such as aromatic oil, such as DAE (Distilled Aromatic Extract), TDAE (Treated Distilled Aromatic Extract), MES (Soft Solvate Extract), RAE (Residual Aromatic Extract), TRAE (Treated Residual Aromatic Extract), naphthenic and heavy naphthenic oils, paraffin oils, vegetable oils, such as coconut oil, synthetic oils, such as alkylbenzene oils and castor oils. Preferably, the oil is an aromatic oil, such as a residual aromatic extract oil.The oil from the rubber composition can be added to the rubber composition in the form of a polymer extender present in one or more polymers (for example, functionalized or non-functionalized SSBR copolymers).

[0164] The total amount of oil in the rubber compound is calculated by summing the extender oil present in one or more polymers and any additional oily components that may be present. The total amount of oil is not particularly limited, but may be from 5 to 60 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably from 8 to 50 parts by weight, more preferably from 10 to 45 parts by weight, even more preferably from 15 to 40 parts by weight, for example, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 or Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 39 / 120 36 / 46 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0165] The anti-degradation agent for the rubber compositions of the present invention is not particularly limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. The anti-degradation agent may be an antioxidant and / or antiozonant. For example, the anti-degradation agent may be one or more selected from the group consisting of N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) and 2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline (TMQ) polymer. Preferably, the anti-degradation agent is a combination of N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) and 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline (TMQ) polymer. The quantity of each anti-degradation agent can be from 0.1 to 3 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, for example, from 0.5 to 1.5 parts by weight, for example, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.The total amount of anti-degradation agent can be from 0.1 to 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, preferably from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 3 parts by weight, even more preferably from 1 to 2 parts by weight, for example, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9 or 2 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component.

[0166] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of producing a rubber compound from the rubber composition of the present invention.

[0167] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of producing a rubber product comprising the steps of: composing the rubber composition of the present invention to form a rubber compound; molding the Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 40 / 120 37 / 46 rubber compound in a desired shape; and, vulcanize the rubber compound. Production and Composition of Rubber Compounds

[0168] In preparing the rubber composition of the present invention, the method for combining each of the components is not limited and any of the methods known to those skilled in the art may be used. For example, all the component materials may be mixed and kneaded at once or may be mixed and kneaded in several stages. For mixing and kneading, a mixer, such as a roller mixer, internal mixer or Banbury mixer, may be used. For shaping the rubber composition into sheets or strips, any known molding machine may be used, such as an extrusion molding machine or press molding machine. Vulcanization

[0169] The vulcanization conditions for hardening the above rubber composition are not limited and may be any of those known to those skilled in the art. Typically, however, vulcanization treatment conditions of 140 to 180 °C for 5 to 120 minutes are employed. Tire Production

[0170] The tire of the present invention is not specifically limited, except that it is produced using the rubber composition of the present invention, and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Since the tire is produced using the rubber compositions of the present invention, it possesses excellent wear resistance, rolling resistance, wet surface performance and toughness, and an excellent balance between these properties.

[0171] The part of the tire in which the rubber compound of Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 41 / 120 38 / 46 The uses of the present invention are not specifically limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. For example, the rubber composition can be used in treads, base treads, sidewalls, side reinforcement rubbers, granular filler materials, etc. Among these, the rubber composition is advantageously used in the tread component.

[0172] Regarding the method of tire production, any method known to those skilled in the art may be used. For example, components commonly used in tire production, such as a carcass layer, a belt layer, a tread layer, and so on, formed by at least one selected from the group consisting of an unvulcanized rubber compound and a cord, are positioned in layers on a drum to mold the tire, and then the drum is removed to provide a green tire. The green tire is then vulcanized under heat according to a common method to produce a desired tire. The tire may be, for example, a pneumatic tire. Examples:

[0173] The invention will now be illustrated by means of the following examples, which are intended to explain the invention and in no way limit its scope. Testing Methods

[0174] Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) - The specific surface area of ​​functionalized silica was measured using the BET method according to the method described in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, Vol. 60, page 309, February 1938, and corresponding to the NF ISO 5794-1 standard, Appendix D (June 2010).

[0175] Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB) Adsorption Method - The surface area of ​​the functionalized silica was measured by Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 42 / 120 39 / 46 using the CTAB method according to ASTM D6845 standard.

[0176] Carbon content (C) of Carboxylic Acid More Corresponding Carboxylate - The content of carboxylic acid plus corresponding carboxylate, denoted (C), expressed as total carbon, can be measured using a carbon / sulfur analyzer, such as the Horiba EMIA 320 V2 device. The principle of the carbon / sulfur analyzer is based on the combustion of a solid sample in an oxygen stream in an induction furnace (set to approximately 170 mA) and in the presence of combustion accelerators (approximately 2 g of tungsten (in particular Lecocel 763-266) and approximately 1 g of iron). The analysis takes approximately 1 minute. The carbon present in the sample to be analyzed (mass of approximately 0.2 g) combines with oxygen to form CO2 and CO. These decomposition gases are subsequently analyzed by an infrared detector.The sample's moisture and the water produced during these oxidation reactions are removed by passing it through a cartridge containing a dehydrating agent (magnesium perchlorate) so as not to interfere with the infrared measurement. The result is expressed as a mass percentage of the element carbon.

[0177] Object Size Distribution Width Ratio Ld - The object size distribution width ratio is the object size distribution width ratio Ld ((d84 - d16) / d50), measured by means of XDC particle size analysis after ultrasonic deagglomeration according to the method described in document WO 2015 / 121333 A1.

[0178] Pore Volume Distribution - The pore volume distribution is the pore volume distribution ratio V(d5 - d50) / V(d5 - d100) measured according to the method described in document WO 2015 / 121333 A1. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 43 / 120 40 / 46

[0179] pH of Functionalized Silica - The pH of functionalized silica was measured according to the method described in document WO 2015 / 121333 A1, which is derived from ISO 787 / 9.

[0180] Mooney viscosity - Mooney viscosity was measured on the functionalized or non-functionalized crude polymer according to ASTM D1646 standard.

[0181] Rolling Resistance (RR) - Rolling resistance was measured in accordance with United Nations Regulation No. 117, Revision 4, 2016, Annex 6.

[0182] Wet Performance - Wet performance was measured in accordance with United Nations Regulation No 117, Revision 4, 2016, Annex 5.

[0183] Toughness (TB*EB) - The toughness measurement was based on the tensile properties of the compound according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 5893 measured at 100 °C.

[0184] Payne Effect (%) - The Payne Effect was calculated from the dynamic properties of the compound measured according to ISO 4664, in the stress / strain test at room temperature. The Payne Effect can predict the dispersion of the filler material in the rubber compound from the ratio (expressed as a percentage) between ΔE' / E'(0.1% strain), where ΔE' is the difference between E'(0.1% strain) - E'(4% stress). The lower the Payne Effect, the better the dispersion of the filler material in the rubber compound. In Table 2 below, the data on the Payne Effect are presented in relation to Comparative Example 1, for which the Payne Effect was normalized to 100. A Payne Effect value greater than 100 indicates that the dispersion of the filler material is better compared to Comparative Example 1. SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group.

[0185] In the following examples, the SSBR copolymer with group Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 44 / 120 Functional terminal 41 / 46 was prepared in accordance with Example 3 of document WO 2014 / 173706 A1, as described below.

[0186] A 20-liter inert reactor was charged with hexane (8.5 kg), 1,3-butadiene (1.185 g), styrene (315 g), 2,2-bis(2-tetrahydrofuryl)propane (8.6 mmol), and butyllithium (11.3 mmol), and the contents were heated to 60 °C. Polymerization was carried out with stirring at 60 °C for 25 minutes. Subsequently, an amount of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane equimolar to that of butyllithium was added (as a solution in cyclohexane), and the contents of the reactor were then heated to 60 °C for a further 20 minutes to close the anionic ends of the polymer chains. Twenty minutes after the addition of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane, an amount of 2,2-dimethyl-1-oxa-4-thia-2-silacyclohexan-6-one equimolar to that of butyllithium and hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane was added (as a solution in toluene) and the mixture was heated to 60 °C for a further 20 minutes.The rubber solution was discharged and stabilized by adding Irganox® 1520 (2,4-bis(octylthiomethyl)-6-methylphenol) (3 g), and the solvent was removed by steam extraction. The rubber granules were dried at 65 °C under reduced pressure. Functionalized Silica

[0187] In the following examples, the functionalized silicas were prepared according to Example 6 in WO 2015 / 121333 A1, wherein the amount of methylglutaric acid (MGA) added was 0.40% by weight (expressed as a weight ratio of MGA / SiO2 mixture) and the pH was adjusted to be between 3 and 3.7 for functionalized silica A and the amount of MGA added was 0.40% by weight (expressed as a weight ratio of MGA / SiO2 mixture) and the pH was adjusted to be between 3.5 and 4.2 for functionalized silica B.

[0188] The properties of functionalized silica A and silica Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 45 / 120 Functionalized versions 42 / 46 B are shown in Table 1 below. Table 1 Property Functionalized Silica A Functionalized Silica B Surface Area BET (m2 / g) 286 288 Surface Area CTAB (m2 / g) 253 254 pH 3.7 4.1 Carbon Content 0.15 0.15 Object Size Distribution Width Ratio (Ld) 1.11 1.36 Pore Volume Distribution Ratio 0.71 0.71 Rubber Compounds

[0189] Tables 2 and 3 below show the rubber compositions of Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Examples 1 to 3. The rubber compositions were prepared by combining the components listed in Tables 2 and 3. Table 2 shows the polymeric and silica components of the rubber compositions, while Table 3 shows the other components. The values ​​indicated in Tables 2 and 3 are parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component (PHR). The quantities of polymeric components given in Table 2 (i.e., the quantities of non-functionalized SSBR, hydroxyl-functionalized SSBR, and SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group) include the percent amount of extender oil that is cited in the description of each polymer in column 2 of Table 2.In other words, to calculate the amount of pure SSBR copolymer present in the composition by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the rubber component, the value provided in Table 2 must be adjusted to account for the percentage of extender oil present. The rubber compositions were subjected to the test methods described above. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 46 / 120 43 / 46

[0190] Table 2 further shows the viscoelastic properties of tires prepared from the rubber compounds of Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Examples 1 to 3. The results are presented in relation to Comparative Example 1, for which all listed viscoelastic property values ​​were normalized to 100. Therefore, if the viscoelastic property value is greater than 100, this indicates an improvement in this property, and if the viscoelastic property value is less than 100, this indicates a reduction in this viscoelastic property. Where the viscoelastic property value is 100, then the result was the same as in Comparative Example 1.

[0191] The Equilibrium value is the sum of the viscoelastic property values ​​for each composition minus 400. Since the value of each of the four viscoelastic properties of Comparative Example 1 was set at 100, the Equilibrium of Comparative Example 1 is 0. An Equilibrium greater than 0 therefore indicates an improvement in the overall viscoelastic properties compared with Comparative Example 1.

[0192] The Notes summarize the characteristics of the polymeric components and silica of each rubber compound. Table 2 Comparative Examples Experimental Examples 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 Component QQ Non-functionalized SSBR (BUNA® VSL 3038-2HM from Arlanxeo) Extended in oil with 27.3% oil TDAE 55.00 55.00 55.00 55.00 55.00 41.25 41.25 Hydroxyl-functionalized SSBR Extended in oil with 10% oil TDAE 65.40 - 65.40 - - - - Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 47 / 120 44 / 46 SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group Extended in oil with 5% TDAE oil - 63.20 - 63.20 63.20 73.50 73.50 Non-functionalized silica 72.00 72.00 - - - - - Functionalized silica A - - 72.00 72.00 - 72.00 80.00 Functionalized silica B - - - - 72.00 - - Viscoelastic Properties Wear resistance 10 0 10 3 10 5 11 3 10 6 10 8 12 1 Rolling resistance 10 0 10 0 10 4 10 7 10 5 10 7 10 3 Wet performance 10 0 10 0 10 2 10 3 10 3 10 4 10 0 TB*EB (Resistance) 10 0 10 1 10 3 10 4 10 4 10 1 99 Equilibrium 0 4 14 27 18 20 23 Payne Effect 10 0 10 0 10 7 11 8 10 5 11 0 10 7 pH of functionalized silica 3.7 3.7 4.2 3.7 3.7 Notes for Comparative Examples (CE)

[0193] CE 1: No carboxyl functionalized component

[0194] CE 2: Carboxyl-functionalized SSBR, non-functionalized silica

[0195] CE 3: SSBR functionalized with hydroxyl, silica functionalized with carboxyl Notes for the Experimental Examples (EE)

[0196] EE 1: Carboxyl-functionalized SSBR, carboxyl-functionalized silica

[0197] EE 2: Carboxyl-functionalized silica with higher pH (4.2 vs. 3.7) Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 48 / 120 45 / 46

[0198] EE 3: Ratio of functionalized silica to functionalized polymer less than 1

[0199] EE 4: Higher amount of functionalized silica Table 3 Comparative Examples Experimental Examples 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 Additional components in the compositions (PHR) Carbon black (Corax® N234) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 3.00 Silane coupling agent (Si 69®) 10.6 0 10.6 0 10.6 0 10.6 0 10.6 0 10.6 0 11.8 0 N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1,3-Diphenylguanidine (DPG) 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.30 Residual Aromatic Extract Oil (RAE) 15.1 0 9.70 15.1 0 9.70 9.70 13.2 0 13.2 0 Sulfur 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.60 Dibenzothiazolyl disulfide (MBTS) 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.75 N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolyl sulfenamide (CBS) 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.70 0.70 Zinc oxide 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 Stearic acid 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 2,2,4Trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline (TMQ) Polymer 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 Results and discussion:

[0200] The equilibrium data for Experimental Examples 1 to 4 are significantly higher than those for Comparative Examples 1 to 3, demonstrating an overall improvement in Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 49 / 120 46 / 46 viscoelastic properties of tires prepared from compositions comprising both SSBR with a functionalized end group and functionalized silica. Furthermore, an interactive and / or synergistic effect is achieved by combining SSBR with a functionalized end group and functionalized silica.

[0201] Comparing Comparative Example 3 with Examples Experiments 1 to 4 show that an improvement in overall viscoelastic properties, particularly wear and rolling resistance, is achieved when SSBR with a functionalized end group is used compared to a hydroxyl-functionalized polymer.

[0202] A comparison of Experimental Example 1 with the Experimental Example 2 demonstrates that an improvement in overall viscoelastic properties, particularly wear and rolling resistance, is achieved when the pH is 3.7 compared to 4.2.

[0203] As can be seen from a comparison of Experimental Example 1, compared with Experimental Example 3, shows that an improvement in overall viscoelastic properties, particularly wear and toughness, is achieved when the amount of functionalized silica is greater than the amount of SSBR with a functionalized end group.

[0204] As can be seen in Experimental Example 4, a higher quantity of functionalized silica significantly improves wear properties.

Claims

1. Rubber composition, characterized in that it comprises: a rubber component comprising a solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (SSBR) with a functionalized end group, wherein the SSBR copolymer with the functionalized end group comprises terminal carboxyl groups; and a functionalized silica, wherein the functionalized silica is a silica functionalized with one or more carboxyl groups, the functionalized silica having: - a specific surface area BET from 250 to 310 m2 / g; - a specific surface area CTAB from 230 to 285 m2 / g; - a carbon content of at least 0.10% by weight of the functionalized silica; - an object size distribution width ratio (Ld) of at least 0.91;- wherein the said object size distribution width ratio (Ld) is measured by means of X-ray disc centrifugation (XDC) particle size analysis after ultrasonic deagglomeration, and corresponds to the ratio (d84-d16) / d50, wherein dn is the size for which n % of particles are smaller than this size; and - a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.65, - wherein the pore volume distribution ratio is measured in accordance with DIN 66133 for the ratio V(d5d50) / V(d5-d100), wherein V(d5-d50) represents the pore volume. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 51 / 120 2 / 7 consisting of pores between d5 and d50 in diameter, and V(d5-d100) represents the volume of pores consisting of pores between d5 and d100 in diameter, dn being here the pore diameter for which n% of the total surface area of ​​all pores is provided by pores with a diameter greater than this diameter.

2. Rubber composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the SSBR copolymer with terminal functionalized group comprises terminal silane-containing carboxyl groups of Formula (I): R-iR3 --Si---C---ACOOH R2R4 LJ (i) wherein: R1 and R2 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylaryl, alkylaryloxy, aralkyl or aralkoxy radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; R3 and R4 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; and, A is a divalent organic radical, which may be an alkyl radical;one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiR8R9; or an alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms, preferably where the heteroatoms are Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p. 52 / 120 3 / 7 or more selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiR8R9; 3. Rubber composition according to claim 2, characterized in that the silane-containing carboxyl group is present as a carboxylate of Formula (II): s-c-a-co-o wherein: R1 and R2 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylaryl, alkylaryloxy, aralkyl or aralkoxy radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; R3 and R4 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; and, A is a divalent organic radical, which can be an alkyl radical;one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiRsRg; or an alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiRsRg; and, M is a metal or semimetal of valence 1 to 4, preferably Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Fe, Co, Ni, Al, Nd, Ti, Sn, Si, Zr, V, Mo or W. n is an integer from 1 to 4, preferably 1. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 53 / 120 4 / 7; 4. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the SSBR copolymer with a functionalized end group is obtained by reacting an SSBR copolymer with one or more functionalizing reagents in the form of silalactones, preferably wherein the silalactones are compounds of Formula (III): (III) wherein: R1 and R2 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylaryl, alkylaryloxy, aralkyl or aralkoxy radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si;R3 and R4 are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical, which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, and Si; and, A is a divalent organic radical, which may be an alkyl radical; one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S and SiR8R9; or an alkyl radical containing one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are one or more selected from the group consisting of O, NR7, S, and SiR8R9.

5. Rubber composition according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the silane-containing carboxyl group is linked to the SSBR copolymer through one or more divalent structural elements of Formula (V): R5 Si—or R6 (V), preferably wherein the divalent structural elements are derived from cyclosiloxanes of Formula (IV): wherein: n is an integer starting from 3 to 6; R5, Re are the same or different and each is independently hydrogen, an alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, alkaryl or aralkyl radical; which may contain one or more heteroatoms, preferably wherein the heteroatoms are O, N, S or Si, more preferably wherein the divalent structural elements are derived from one or more cyclosiloxanes selected from the group consisting of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane.

6. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functionalized silica is functionalized on its surface with one or more polycarboxylic acids, preferably wherein the one or more polycarboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of adipic acid, succinic acid, ethylsuccinic acid, glutaric acid, methylglutaric acid, oxalic acid and citric acid. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 55 / 120 6 / 7 7. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functionalized silica has a carbon content of at least 0.15% by weight, preferably at least 0.20% by weight, more preferably at least 0.25% by weight, and even more preferably at least 0.30% by weight.

8. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functionalized silica has an object size distribution width ratio of at least 0.94, preferably at least 0.

98.

9. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functionalized silica has a pore volume distribution ratio of at least 0.66, preferably at least 0.

68.

10. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pH of the functionalized silica is from 2.5 to 7, preferably from 2.5 to 5, more preferably from 3 to 4.

5.

11. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises: 10.5 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the SSBR copolymer rubber component with a functionalized end group, preferably 40 to 90 parts by weight, more preferably 50 to 80 parts by weight, even more preferably 55 to 75 parts by weight; and 20 to 200 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of a functionalized silica rubber component, preferably 50 to 100 parts by weight, more preferably 65 to 85 parts by weight, even more preferably 70 to 75 parts by weight. Petition 870260002615, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 56 / 120 7 / 7 12. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ratio of the amount of functionalized silica per 100 parts of the rubber component to the amount of SSBR copolymer with functionalized end group per 100 parts of the rubber component is from 0.5:1 to 2:1, preferably from 0.75:1 to 1.50:1, more preferably from 0.9:1 to 1.40:1, even more preferably from 0.95:1 to 1.35:1, most preferably from 0.95:1 to 1.30:

1.

13. Rubber composition, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rubber composition is composite.

14. Rubber product comprising the rubber composition, as defined in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rubber composition is vulcanized.

15. Tire characterized in that it comprises the rubber composition, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 13, or the rubber product, as defined in claim 14.