A tire component with a predominantly renewable content

Abstract

A tire component formed from a rubber composition comprising a predominant weight percentage of renewable materials, wherein the rubber composition, based on 100 parts by weight (ThK) of elastomer, comprises: a mixture of at least two rubber elastomers, selected from a group consisting of: from 30 ThK to 60 ThK polybutadiene; up to 60 ThK of one or more styrene-butadiene copolymers; up to 45 ThK natural rubber; a bio-based resin material, and a bio-based filler comprising silicon dioxide and carbon black filler, wherein said carbon black filler was obtained at least partially from a bio-based starting material prior to its addition to the rubber composition.

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a tire component and a rubber composition containing a predominant weight percentage of renewable material. It is particularly applicable in conjunction with tread components and is described with particular reference to this application. However, it should be noted that the present exemplary embodiments are also suitable for other similar applications. Background of the invention

[0002] To improve sustainability in the tire industry, there is an ongoing effort to develop rubber tire compounds from renewable sources. However, sustainable compounds must behave in predictable ways for a tire to fulfill its intended purpose. Therefore, a sustainable rubber compound with little to no compromise in rubber performance is desirable.

[0003] In rubber tire compounds, each material and additive is combined with elastomers to give the resulting tire specific properties. Currently, several materials—including resin and carbon black—are derived from a fossil fuel (also referred to here as a "hydrocarbon") source (e.g., petroleum, coal, or natural gas). Emissions from the production of these petroleum-based materials include organic compounds, sulfur compounds, carbon monoxide (CO), and other pollutants. To reduce the environmental impact of such emissions, the goal is to reduce or eliminate fossil fuel-derived materials from rubber compounds. However, previous technologies have made it difficult for one, let alone a combination of, bio-based alternative materials to replicate the performance of conventional materials in tire compounds.

[0004] To meet the challenge of providing a tire rubber composition from sustainable, biorenewable, environmentally friendly and non-fossil fuel sources, it is desirable to evaluate a rubber composition made from a combination of materials including resin from a renewable resource. Summary of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to a tire component according to claim 1.

[0006] The dependent claims relate to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0007] One embodiment of the disclosure relates to a tire component formed from a rubber composition comprising a predominant weight percentage of renewable materials. The rubber composition comprises, based on 100 parts by weight (ThK) elastomer: a mixture of at least two rubber elastomers selected from a group consisting of polybutadiene from 30 ThK to 60 ThK or polybutadiene from 40 ThK to 50 ThK, styrene-butadiene copolymer up to 60 ThK or up to 35 ThK, and natural rubber up to 45 ThK; a bio-based resin material; and a bio-based filler comprising silicon dioxide and carbon black filler.

[0008] In the embodiment under consideration, the carbon black filler, before being added to the rubber composition, is at least partially derived from a bio-based starting material. The resin and the silicon dioxide are also derived from renewable materials.

[0009] When an SSBR is used in the rubber composition, it can be functionalized or non-functionalized. Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

[0010] This disclosure relates to a rubber composition containing a predominant weight percentage of renewable material. The disclosure also relates to a tire component comprising this rubber composition.

[0011] As used herein, the terms "compound rubber," "rubber compound," and "compound" refer to rubber compositions containing elastomers that have been blended or mixed with suitable rubber compound constituents. The terms "rubber," "elastomer," and "polymer" may be used interchangeably unless otherwise specified.

[0012] As used here, the term "contains" and variations of this term such as "containing", "encompasses" and "includes" are not intended to exclude further additives, components, integers or steps unless the context requires otherwise.

[0013] As used here, the term "bio-based" or "bio-derived" refers to a material that has been derived from a renewable or sustainable resource or natural source. This can include an industrial source, for example, if a by-product or waste product is recovered and reused to reduce or eliminate emissions that are harmful to the environment. One example is the capture of carbon oxides for use as a feedstock.

[0014] As used here, “renewable” and “sustainable” are used interchangeably and in the following also include recycled material; “content” and “material” are used interchangeably.

[0015] It partially and preferably completely excludes radiocarbon and fossil carbon materials derived from petroleum, coal, or natural gas sources. Examples of resources from which the bio-based material can be obtained include fresh (or fermented) biomass such as corn and vegetable oil.

[0016] A key aspect of the disclosure is the percentage by weight of renewable content, achieved through a combination of various renewable materials. Another aspect of the disclosed rubber composition is that the performance of a vulcanized rubber composition with a majority by weight of renewable content matches or improves upon the performance (wet grip, wear resistance, and rolling resistance) of a tread made from conventional rubber compositions derived from petroleum-based materials.

[0017] In this application, the glass transition temperature Tg for polymers is determined as peak midpoint by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) with a temperature rise rate of 10°C per minute according to ASTM D3418-15 or equivalent.

[0018] In this application, the glass transition temperature Tg for resins is determined as peak midpoint by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) with a temperature rise rate of 10°C per minute according to ASTM D6604 or equivalent.

[0019] In this application, the glass transition temperature Tg for oils is determined as peak midpoint by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) with a temperature rise rate of 10°C per minute according to ASTM E1356 or equivalent.

[0020] This application determines the softening point of hydrocarbon resins according to ASTM E28 (or E28-58T) or equivalent, sometimes referred to as the ring and ball softening point. Rubber polymer(s)

[0021] The disclosed rubber composition comprises a mixture of at least two rubber elastomers, and in particular conjugated diene-based elastomers. In practice, various conjugated diene-based elastomers can be used for the rubber composition, such as polymers and copolymers of at least one isoprene and 1,3-butadiene, and of styrene copolymerized with at least one isoprene and 1,3-butadiene. Representative examples of such conjugated diene-based elastomers are at least one of cis-1,4-polyisoprene (natural and synthetic), cis-1,4-polybutadiene, styrene / butadiene copolymers, medium vinyl polybutadiene with a vinyl 1,2 content of 1,2 in the range of 15 to 90 percent, isoprene / butadiene copolymers, and styrene / isoprene / butadiene terpolymers.

[0022] In practice, the preferred rubbers or elastomers are polyisoprene (natural or synthetic), polybutadiene, and SBR. In a further embodiment, the rubber elastomers are polyisoprene and polybutadiene. In one embodiment, polybutadiene is predominantly present. In a preferred embodiment, polyisoprene is present in the majority.

[0023] In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises polybutadiene from 30 to 60 ThK and preferably from 40 to 50 ThK. ​​In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises up to 20% by weight polybutadiene.

[0024] In practice, it is assumed that the cis-1,4-polybutadiene elastomer could be a neodymium catalyst-prepared cis-1,4-polybutadiene rubber, which can be produced, for example, by polymerization of a 1,3-polybutadiene monomer in an organic solvent solution in the presence of a catalyst system from a neodymium compound. However, such 1,4-polybutadiene can also be produced by organic solution nickel catalysis of cis-1,3-budadiene rubber.

[0025] Examples of such neodymium catalyst-prepared cis-1,4-polybutdiene include BUD 1223™ from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and CB25™ from Lanxess.

[0026] cis-1,4-polyisoprene and cis-1,4-polyisoprene natural rubber are well known to those skilled in rubber technology. In practice, a second rubber polymer may contain polyisoprene. In one embodiment, polyisoprene may be present in a minority amount. In another embodiment, polyisoprene may be present in a predominant amount. In practice, the preferred rubbers or elastomers comprise polyisoprene (natural or synthetic) to some extent. In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises up to 45 ThK polyisoprene, preferably in the form of natural rubber. In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises at least 35 ThK polyisoprene, preferably in the form of natural rubber. In certain embodiments, the rubber composition comprises 35 to 45 ThK polyisoprene in the form of natural rubber.In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises 10 to 35% by weight and preferably 15 to 30% by weight polyisoprene.

[0027] In one considered embodiment, at least one rubber polymer contains a styrene-butadiene rubber. Styrene / butadiene copolymers include those produced by aqueous emulsion polymerization (ESBR) and by organic solvent solution polymerization (SSBR). One embodiment also considers a solution polymerization-prepared SBR (SSBR), which typically has a bound styrene content in the range of 9 to 36 percent. However, embodiments are also considered in which the SSBR has a bound styrene content of more than 30 percent, for example, 34 percent.

[0028] The rubber composition can comprise up to 35 ThK or up to 60 ThK of styrene-butadiene rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises ESBR and SSBR. In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises SSBR and excludes ESBR. In embodiments where the mixture of rubber polymers includes SSBR, the SSBR can be present in an amount of 5 ThK to 30 ThK, and preferably from 10 ThK to 25 ThK. ​​In certain embodiments, the rubber composition comprises up to 5% by weight of SSBR.

[0029] SSBR can be conveniently produced, for example, by organo-lithium catalysis in the presence of an organic hydrocarbon solvent. In one embodiment, the SSBR is not functionalized. In another embodiment, at least one rubber polymer such as SSBR can be functionalized.

[0030] Examples of functionalized elastomers include styrene / butadiene elastomers, which contain one or more functional groups, including: (A) an amine functional group that is reactive with hydroxyl groups on silicon dioxide or precipitated silicon dioxide, (B) a siloxy-functional group, including end-chain siloxy groups, which is reactive with hydroxyl groups on silicon dioxide or precipitated silicon dioxide, (C) the combination of amine and siloxy functional groups that are reactive with hydroxyl groups on said silicon dioxide or precipitated silicon dioxide, (D) the combination of thiol and siloxy (e.g. ethoxysilane) functional groups that are reactive with hydroxyl groups on the silicon dioxide or the precipitated silicon dioxide, (E) the combination of imine and siloxy functional groups that are reactive with hydroxyl groups on the silicon dioxide or the precipitated silicon dioxide, (F) hydroxyl functional groups that are reactive with the silicon dioxide or the precipitated silicon dioxide.

[0031] Examples of amine-functionalized SBR elastomers include the chain-functionalized SBR elastomers described in US Patent No. 6,936,669.

[0032] Representative of a combination of aminosiloxy-functionalized SBR elastomers with one or more aminosiloxy groups bonded to the elastomer is, for example, HPR355™ from JSR and the aminosiloxy-functionalized SBR elastomers described in US Pat. No. 7,981,966.

[0033] Representative styrene / butadiene elastomers end-functionalized with a silane sulfide group are described, for example, in US patents 8,217,103 and 8,569,409.

[0034] It is also considered that in certain embodiments the rubber elastomer may be a butyl-type elastomer, in particular copolymers of isobutylene with a low content of diene hydrocarbon(s), such as isoprene and halogenated butyl rubber.

[0035] It is also considered that in certain embodiments the elastomer may comprise a halobutyl rubber, which may be a mixture of chlorobutyl rubber, bromobutyl rubber and mixtures thereof.

[0036] Tin-coupled elastomers can also be used, such as styrene / butadiene copolymers, isoprene / butadiene copolymers, styrene / isoprene copolymers, polybutadiene and styrene / isoprene / butadiene terpolymers produced by tin-coupled organic solution polymerization, including the aforementioned functionalized styrene / butadiene elastomers. oil

[0037] If it is desired that the rubber composition contains less or no petroleum-derived materials, this means that the rubber composition contains minimal, if any, petroleum-based processing oil. For example, it is desirable that the rubber composition be limited to 0 to 5 ThK of petroleum-based processing oil and preferably to less than 2 ThK of petroleum-based processing oil.

[0038] In one embodiment, the rubber composition may comprise up to 20 ThK of rubber processing oil. In another embodiment, the rubber composition may contain at least 1 ThK of rubber processing oil. In practice, the composition may comprise 1 to 20 ThK of rubber processing oil, and preferably 15 to 20 ThK. ​​Processing oil may be included in the rubber composition as an extender oil, typically used for stretching elastomers. Processing oil may also be incorporated into the rubber composition by direct addition during the rubber blending process. The processing oil used in the rubber composition may include both the extender oil present in the elastomers and the processing oil added during blending.Suitable processing oils include various oils commonly used in the industry, such as aromatic, paraffinic, naphthenic, vegetable triglyceride oils, and low-PCA oils like MES, TDAE, SRAE, and heavy naphthenic oils. Suitable low-PCA oils include those with a polycyclic aromatic content of less than 3 percent by weight, as determined by the IP346 method. Procedures for the IP346 method are found in Standard Methods for Analysis & Testing of Petroleum and Related Products and British Standard 2000, Parts 2003, 62nd Edition, published by the Institute of Petroleum, United Kingdom.

[0039] A suitable vegetable triglyceride oil comprises a combination of saturated and unsaturated esters, wherein the unsaturated esters include at least a combination of oleic acid esters, linoleic acid esters, and linoleic acid esters. The saturated esters may, for example, include at least one stearic acid ester and one palmitic acid ester.

[0040] In one embodiment, the vegetable triglyceride oil comprises at least one of soybean oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and canola oil, present as esters containing a certain degree of unsaturation. Other suitable examples of vegetable triglyceride oil include corn, coconut, cottonseed, olive, palm, peanut, and safflower oil. In practice, the oil contains at least one of soybean oil and one of sunflower oil.

[0041] In the case of soybean oil, for example, the percentage distribution or combination of fatty acids of the glycerol triesters, namely the triglycerides, shown above is presented as an average value and can vary somewhat depending on the type or origin of the soybean plant and can also depend on the growing conditions of a specific soybean plant from which the soybean oil was extracted. It also typically contains significant amounts of other saturated fatty acids, which, however, usually do not exceed 20 percent of the soybean oil.

[0042] The considered embodiment comprises between 1% and 10% by weight of a bio-based rubber processing oil in the composition. In one embodiment, the rubber processing oil material constitutes between 3% and 8% by weight of the composition. resin

[0043] An important aspect of the present disclosure is the partial, but preferably complete, use of a bio-based resin material instead of a petroleum-based resin. Conventional resins are derived from petroleum. These resin types include any resin of the hydrocarbon chemistry type (AMS, coumaron-indene, C5, C9, C5 / C9, DCPD, DCPD / C9, others) and any modification thereof (phenol, C9, hydrogenation, recycled monomers, others). While these types of resins are considered for one embodiment of the invention, the preferred embodiment instead uses a renewable, bio-based chemistry-type resin and modifications and mixtures thereof. Representative resins may also include coumaron-type resins, including coumaron-indene resins and mixtures of coumaron resins, naphthenic oils, phenolic resins, and rosin.Other suitable resins include phenol-terpene resins such as phenol-acetylene resins, phenol-formaldehyde resins, alkylphenol-formaldehyde resins, terpene-phenol resins, polyterpene resins and xylene-formaldehyde resins.

[0044] Terpene phenolic resins can be used. These resins can be obtained by copolymerization of phenolic monomers with terpenes such as limonene, pinene, and delta-3-karene. In one embodiment, the resin can be an alpha-pinene resin characterized by a softening point (Tg) between 60°C and 130°C.

[0045] In one embodiment, the resin is derived from rosin and its derivatives. Examples include balsam resin, wood rosin, and tall oil resin. Balsam resin, wood rosin, and tall oil resin have similar compositions, although the proportions of their constituents can vary. Such resins can be dimerized, polymerized, or disproportionate. They can exist as esters of rosin acids and polyols such as pentaerythritol or glycol.

[0046] In one embodiment, the resin can be partially or completely hydrogenated.

[0047] In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises 10 to 80 ThK of at least one resin and preferably 10 to 80 ThK of a bio-based resin, although embodiments in which another resin of a different type may be added to the composition are also considered. In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises at least 15 ThK of resin and preferably not less than 20 ThK of resin. In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises at least 20 ThK and not more than 60 ThK of resin.

[0048] The considered embodiment comprises between 10% and 15% by weight of a bio-resin material in the composition. In one embodiment, the resin material constitutes 12% and 15% by weight of the composition. filler

[0049] The disclosed rubber composition comprises 80–150 ThK silicon dioxide filler. In one embodiment, the composition comprises 90 ThK silicon dioxide. In another embodiment, the composition comprises not less than 100 ThK silicon dioxide.

[0050] In one embodiment, the silicon dioxide comprises: (A) silicon dioxide or precipitated silicon dioxide derived from inorganic sand (silicon dioxide-based sand), or (B) silicon dioxide or precipitated silicon dioxide obtained from rice husks (silicon dioxide-containing rice husks).

[0051] In one embodiment, the precipitated silicon dioxide is obtained from naturally occurring inorganic sand (e.g., SiO₂, silicon dioxide, which may contain trace minerals). The inorganic sand is typically treated with a strong base, such as sodium hydroxide, to form an aqueous silicate solution (e.g., sodium silicate). Synthetic precipitated silicon dioxide is then obtained by controlled treatment of the silicate with an acid (e.g., a mineral acid and / or an acidifying gas such as carbon dioxide). Sometimes an electrolyte (e.g., sodium sulfate) may be present to promote the formation of precipitated silicon dioxide particles. The resulting precipitated silicon dioxide is an amorphous precipitated silicon dioxide.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the silicon dioxide is precipitated silicon dioxide derived from rice hulls. Such precipitated silicon dioxide is obtained from rice plant hulls (e.g., burnt ash of rice hulls), which contain SiO2, silicon dioxide, and may contain trace elements from the soil in which the rice was planted. In a similar method, the rice hulls (e.g., rice hull ash) are typically treated with a strong base such as sodium hydroxide to form an aqueous silicate solution (e.g., sodium silicate). Subsequently, a synthetic precipitated silicon dioxide is formed by controlled treatment of the silicate with an acid (e.g., a mineral acid and / or an acidifying gas, for example, carbon dioxide), in which an electrolyte (e.g., sodium sulfate) may be present to promote the formation of precipitated silicon dioxide particles derived from rice hulls.The recovered precipitated silicon dioxide is an amorphous precipitated silicon dioxide. See, for example, US patent application serial number 2003 / 0096900. In a preferred embodiment, the rubber composition comprises between 30 and 40 percent by weight of rice hull ash silicon dioxide, and more preferably between 34 and 37 percent by weight of rice hull silicon dioxide.

[0053] Precipitated silicon dioxide, whether derived from the aforementioned silicon dioxide sources or from rice husks, can, for example, possess a BET surface area, measured with nitrogen gas, in the range of approximately 40 to 600 square meters per gram, and more commonly in the range of 50 to 300 square meters per gram. The BET method for measuring the surface area may be described, for example, in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, Volume 60, as well as in ASTM D3037. Such precipitated silicon dioxides may also exhibit a dibutyl phthalate (DBP) absorption value, for example, in the range of 100 to 400 square meters per gram, and more commonly in the range of 150 to 300 square meters per 100 grams.

[0054] Other embodiments are being considered in which silicon dioxide is used in combination with another filler, such as carbon black.

[0055] In one embodiment, the rubber composition optionally comprises 0 to 50 ThK of carbon black, based on 100 parts by weight (ThK) of the elastomer. In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises no more than 20 ThK of carbon black. In another embodiment, the rubber composition comprises at least 0.1 ThK of carbon black, and in certain embodiments, no less than 1 ThK of carbon black. In one embodiment, the rubber composition comprises 1 to 15 ThK of carbon black. In a preferred embodiment, the carbon black is bio-based.

[0056] The ASTM D6866 method for obtaining the “bio-based” content is based on the same concepts as radiocarbon dating, but without using the age equations. The method is based on determining a ratio of the amount of radiocarbon in an unknown sample ( 14C) compared to a modern reference standard. The ratio is expressed as a percentage using the units “pMC” (percentage of modern carbon). If the material being analyzed is a mixture of present-day radiocarbon and fossil carbon (fossil carbon originating from petroleum, coal, or a natural gas source), the determined pMC value correlates directly with the amount of biomass material in the sample.

[0057] The modern reference standard used in radiocarbon dating is a standard from the National Institute of Standards and Technology USA (NIST-USA) with a known radiocarbon signature approximately equivalent to the year 1950 AD, before excess radiocarbon was released into the atmosphere. The year 1950 AD corresponds to zero (0) years and 100 pMC. Present-day (fresh) biomass materials and materials derived from them exhibit a radiocarbon signature close to 107.5.

[0058] The radiocarbon dating isotope ( 14 C) has a nuclear half-life of 5730 years. Fossil carbon has, depending on the source, almost zero. 14 Carbon content. Assuming that 107.5 pMC represents present-day biomass materials and 0 pMC represents petroleum derivatives (fossil carbon), the measured pMC value for a material reflects the proportions of the two component types. Therefore, a material derived 100% from present-day vegetable oil would yield a radiocarbon signature of approximately 107.5 pMC. If this material were diluted with 50% petroleum derivatives, it would yield a radiocarbon signature of approximately 54 pMC.

[0059] A biomass content result is determined by assigning 100% to 107.5 pMC and 0% to 0 pMC. In this respect, a sample with a measured 99 pMC yields an equivalent bio-based content result of 93%. This value is referred to as the "mean bio-based result" and assumes that all components of the analyzed material were either living or fossil in origin.

[0060] The results of the ASTM D6866 method represent the mean bio-based result and include an absolute range of 6% (±3% on either side of the mean bio-based result) to account for variations in the final component radiocarbon signatures. All materials are assumed to be of present-day or fossil origin. The result represents the amount of bio-based components "present" in the material—not the amount of bio-based material "used" in the manufacturing process.

[0061] In one embodiment, a tire component is formed from a rubber composition containing a carbon black filler with a modern carbon content of more than one percent (1%) according to ASTM D6866. The carbon black is produced from a bio-based raw material before being added to the rubber composition. In one embodiment, the carbon black is at least partially based on a bio-based raw material and, in a preferred embodiment, is completely free of fossil carbon.

[0062] In one embodiment, the bio-based raw material from which the carbon black is obtained comprises at least one triglyceride vegetable oil, such as soybean oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the bio-based raw material from which the carbon black is obtained comprises at least one plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass, or combinations thereof.

[0063] In one embodiment, the carbon black has a modern carbon content of at least 1%. In another embodiment, the carbon black has a modern carbon content of at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, and most preferably at least 50%. In one embodiment, the carbon black has a biomass content of at least 1 pMC, and preferably at least 54 pMC. In another embodiment, the carbon black can have a biomass content of at least 80 pMC.

[0064] Other embodiments are considered that utilize a carbon dioxide-generated carbon reinforcing filler. Suitable carbon dioxide-generated carbon reinforcing fillers can be produced by the methods described in US 8,679,444, US 10,500,582, and US Serial No. 17 / 109,262.

[0065] Various combinations of carbon blacks (with different particle sizes and / or other properties, including conventional petroleum carbon blacks) may also be used in the disclosed rubber composition. Representative examples of rubber-reinforcing carbon blacks are listed, for example, and not intended to be limiting, in the Vanderbilt Rubber Handbook, 13th Edition, 1990, on pages 417 and 418, with their ASTM designations. Such rubber-reinforcing carbon blacks may, for example, exhibit iodine absorptions of 60 to 240 g / kg and DBP values ​​of 34 to 150 cm⁻¹. 3 / 100 g. Coupling device

[0066] Representative silicon dioxide coupling agents for the aforementioned precipitated silicon dioxide are: (A) bis(3-Trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide having an average of 2 to 4, alternatively 2 to 2.6 or 3.2 to 3.8, sulfur atoms in its bonding bridge, or (B) an alkoxy organomer captosilane, or (C) their combination.

[0067] Bis(3-Trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide is representative of such a bis(3-triethoxysilyl)propyl polysulfide.

[0068] The silicon dioxide described above is added to the rubber composition as desired in combination with the bis(3-triethoxysilylpropylpropyl) polysulfide for the reaction of the latter in situ within the rubber composition.

[0069] In one embodiment, the composition comprises between 1 ThK and 20 ThK of the coupling agent, and preferably between 8 ThK and 12 ThK of coupling agent. Processing aid - fatty acid derivatives

[0070] Another aspect of the present disclosure is the addition of a bio-based processing aid to the rubber composition. In a preferred embodiment, the processing aid may be a mixture of bio-based fatty acid derivatives and / or bio-based fatty acid derivatives. The processing aid may have a softening point (Tg) in the range of 105°C to 120°C. In general, 0.5 to 5 ThK and preferably 1 to 3 ThK of processing aid may be used in the composition. In one considered embodiment, the processing aid should be obtained as ZB 49 from Struktol® or other sources. In some embodiments, the processing aid may be used to promote the coupling between a coupling agent, silicon dioxide filler, and / or portions of the polymer with the network between the polymers.

[0071] It is readily apparent to experts that the rubber composition would be mixed using methods generally known in rubber mixing technology, such as blending various sulfur-vulcanizable rubber components with various commonly used additive materials, including sulfur donors, vulcanization aids such as activators, accelerators and retarders, as well as processing additives, fillers, pigments, fatty acids, zinc oxide, waxes, antioxidants and antiozonants, and peptizing agents. As experts know, the aforementioned additives are selected and frequently used in conventional quantities depending on the intended use of the sulfur-vulcanizable and sulfur-vulcanized material (rubber).

[0072] Representative examples of sulfur donors include elemental sulfur (free sulfur), an amine disulfide, polymeric polysulfide, and sulfur olefin adducts. Preferably, the sulfur vulcanizing agent is elemental sulfur. The sulfur vulcanizing agent may be used in an amount of 0.5 to 8 ThK, with a range of 1 to 6 ThK being preferred. Typical amounts of antioxidants range from 0.5 to 5 ThK. ​​Representative antioxidants may be, for example, polymerized trimethyldihydroquinoline, a mixture of arylphenylene diamines, and others, such as those disclosed in the Vanderbilt Rubber Handbook (1978), pages 344 to 346. In the preferred embodiment, the antioxidant is a lignin-based antioxidant. Typical amounts of antioxidants range from 1 to 5 ThK. A non-limiting representative antiozonantisone can be, for example, N-(1,3 Dimethylbutyl)-n'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine.Typical amounts of fatty acids, if used, which may include stearic acid, for example, can range from 0.5 to 5 ThK. ​​Typical amounts of zinc oxide range from 1 to 5 ThK. ​​In a preferred embodiment, the zinc oxide is obtained from recycled material. Typical amounts of wax range from 1 to 5 ThK. ​​Microcrystalline waxes are often used, but refined paraffin waxes or combinations of both may also be used. Typical amounts of peptizers range from 0.1 to 1 ThK. ​​Typical peptizers may include, for example, pentachlorothiophenol and dibenzamidodiphenyl disulfide.

[0073] Accelerators are used to control the time and / or temperature required for vulcanization and to improve the properties of the vulcanizate. In one embodiment, a single accelerator system, i.e., a primary accelerator, can be used. The primary accelerator can be used in total amounts of 0.2 to 3, preferably 2 to 2.5 ThK. ​​In another embodiment, combinations of a primary and a secondary accelerator could be used, with the secondary accelerator being used in total amounts of 0.2 to 3, preferably 2 to 2.5 ThK, to activate and improve the properties of the vulcanizate. Combinations of these accelerators could have a synergistic effect on the final properties and are somewhat better than those produced by using only one of the accelerators.Additionally, retarders can be used that are not affected by normal process temperatures but produce satisfactory vulcanization at ordinary vulcanization temperatures. Vulcanization retarders could also be used. A non-limiting example of a retarder is N-cyclohexylthiophthalimide (CTP). Suitable types of accelerators that can be used in the present invention are amines, disulfides, guanidines, thioureas, thiazoles, thiurams, sulfenamides, dithiocarbamates, and xanthates. Preferably, the primary accelerator is a sulfenamide, for example, N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide (CBS). If a second accelerator is used, the secondary accelerator is preferably a guanidine (such as diphenylguanidine (DPG)), dithiaocarbamate (such as zinc dimethyl dithiocarbamate or zinc dibenzyl dithiocarbamate) or a thiuram compound.

[0074] The rubber composition can be mixed using methods familiar to rubber mixing experts. For example, the ingredients are typically mixed in at least two phases: at least one non-productive phase followed by a productive mixing phase. The final vulcanizing agents, including sulfur vulcanizing agents, are typically mixed in the final stage, commonly referred to as the "productive" mixing phase, where mixing typically occurs at a temperature lower than the mixing temperature in the preceding non-productive mixing phase(s). The rubber composition may also undergo a thermomechanical mixing step.The thermomechanical mixing step typically involves mechanical operation in a mixer or extruder for a period suitable for generating a rubber temperature between 140°C and 190°C. The appropriate duration of the thermomechanical operation varies depending on the operating conditions, as well as the volume and type of components. For example, the thermomechanical operation can last between 1 and 20 minutes.

[0075] The vulcanization of a pneumatic tire according to the present invention is generally carried out at conventional temperatures in the range of 100°C to 200°C. Preferably, vulcanization is carried out at temperatures in the range of 110°C to 180°C. Any of the usual vulcanization methods can be used, such as heating in a press or mold, heating with hot steam or hot air. Such tires can be manufactured, designed, shaped, and vulcanized using various known methods that are familiar to those skilled in this art or are immediately apparent to them.

[0076] The disclosure relates to a tire component formed by such a process. Likewise, the tire component can be integrated into a tire. The tire component can be in contact with the ground or not. The tire can be pneumatic or non-pneumatic. In one version, the tire component can be a tread.

[0077] The tire of the present disclosure can be a racing tire, passenger car tire, aircraft tire, agricultural tire, earthmoving tire, off-road tire, truck tire, or passenger car tire. Preferably, the tire is a passenger car or truck tire. The tire can also be radial or bias-ply, with a radial tire being preferred.

[0078] The rubber composition itself, depending heavily on the selection and levels of renewable materials, can also be useful as tire sidewalls or other tire components, or in rubber tracks, conveyor belts, or other industrial product applications, such as wiper blades, brake diaphragms, washers, gaskets, sealing rings, hoses, conveyor belts, drive belts, shoe soles, shoe rubber strips, and floor mats for building or automotive applications.

[0079] The following examples are presented to illustrate the present invention. All parts are parts by weight unless expressly stated otherwise. EXAMPLES

[0080] These examples illustrate the effects of the disclosed combinations of renewable content on the performance of a rubber composition. The rubber compositions were blended in a multi-stage blending process according to the recipes in Tables 1-6.

[0081] The control rubber compound samples A, D, F, K, N, and Q were formed from equal amounts of similar ingredients. These control samples were manufactured using a mixture of polybutadiene BR, emulsion-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer ESBR, and solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene polymer SSBR with additives including oil (soybean), a carbon black filler, a bio-based silane coupling agent, waxes, ozone deterrents, a lignin-based antioxidant, a mixture of bio-based fatty acid derivatives, and recycled zinc oxide. The control samples were also manufactured using petroleum-derived alpha-methylstyrene resin. Standardized vulcanization techniques were employed. EXAMPLE 1

[0082] Experimental samples B and C are shown in Table 1. In samples B and C, the petroleum resin is replaced by a bio-based resin—specifically, alpha-pinene resin. Sample C also contains an eight percent increase in sulfur and an accelerator compared to control sample A, while all other ingredients and quantities remain the same.

[0083] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance, etc.

[0084] The basic formulations are shown in Table 1 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 1 also compares the vulcanized properties of control sample A and experimental samples B and C. TABLE 1 Sample Control A Experimental B C BR 1 44 44 44 ESBR 31 31 31 SSBR 2 30 30 30 Harz A 3 20 0 0 Harz B 4 0 20 20 silicon dioxide 95 95 95 sulfur 1,35 1,35 +8% accelerator 5 2 2 +8% viscosity , RPA at 100°CG', 15% (MPa) 0,228 0,223 0,228 Vulcanization state Delta torque (dNm) 19,3 18,3 22,7 T25 (min) 7,3 6,3 6,2 T90 (min) 13,5 12,9 12,3 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 4,134 4,009 4,046 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,874 0,760 0,807 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 6,34E±06 5,17E±06 4,72E±06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 134 147 139 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 21,6 21,4 21,1 ARES TD at 0°C 0,402 0,417 0,459 Wear indicators DIN wear (relative volume loss) 63 72 71 Grosch abrasion with high severity (mg / km) 607 566 565 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,85E±07 1,55E±07 1,41 E±07 RR indicator Rebound at 60°C (%) 42,1 41,8 42,1 ARES TD at 30°C 0,310 0,320 0,339 1 Polybutadiene, Nd catalyzed 2 Solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber, 33% styrene, 20 ThK oil-extended 3 Alpha methylstyrene resin 4 Bio-based terpene resin, obtained as SYLVATRAXX 8115 from Kraton Chemical 5 CBS

[0085] Table 1 shows a slight shift towards lower stiffness between Experimental Sample B and Control A when the petroleum-derived resin is replaced with a bio-based resin. An increase in sulfur and an accelerator between Experimental Sample C and Experimental Sample B—both formed with the bio-based resin—was made to compensate for this change. This improved the delta torque value of Sample C, which more closely matches Control A.

[0086] Overall, similar performance indicators were observed between experimental samples B and C and control A. It is concluded that the performance of the composition is not affected by using a sustainably sourced resin instead of a petroleum-based resin. EXAMPLE 2

[0087] Experimental sample E is shown in Table 2. In sample E, the conventional, petroleum-derived carbon black is replaced by a bio-based carbon black. Sample E contains a larger quantity of carbon black than control D, while all other quantities are the same.

[0088] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance, etc.

[0089] The basic formulations are shown in Table 2 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 2 also compares the vulcanized properties of control sample D and experimental sample E. TABLE 2 Samples ControlD* Experimental Soot (petroleum-based) 2 0 Carbon black (bio-based) 1 0 8 viscosity , RPA at 100°C G', 15 % (MPa) 0,228 0,261 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 4,134 4,497 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,874 0,862 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 6,34E±06 2,00E+06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 134 116 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 21,6 21,4 ARES TD at 0°C 0,402 0,443 Wear indicators DIN wear (relative volume loss) 63 70 Grosch abrasion with high severity (mg / km) 607 698 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,85E±07 1,84E±07 RR indicator Rebound at 60°C (%) 42,1 42,5 ARES TD at 30°C 0,310 0,335 *Same formula as control sample A above 1 Soot based on CO2 raw materials

[0090] Table 2 shows an increase in stiffness at low strain between experimental sample E and control group D when the petroleum-derived carbon black is replaced by a bio-based carbon black.

[0091] Overall, the results showed that the bio-based carbon black had no noticeable effect on the properties of the compositions. It was determined that the bio-based carbon black can be used as a dye without significantly impairing the performance of the composition. EXAMPLE 3

[0092] The experimental samples G–J are shown in Table 3. In samples G–J, the ESBR is replaced by natural rubber, along with a reduction in SSBR. Sample G uses the conventional, petroleum-derived resin with the modified rubber compound. Samples H–J replace the petroleum-derived resin with the bio-based resin material. Samples I and J use an increased amount of the bio-based resin material compared to sample H. Sample J also increases the amount of silicon dioxide filler compared to samples F–I. Minor vulcanization adjustments were made between samples H, I, and J, while all other ingredient amounts remained constant.

[0093] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance.

[0094] The basic formulations are shown in Table 3 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 3 also compares the vulcanized properties of the control sample F and the experimental samples GJ. TABLE 3 Samples control Experimental F* G H I J BR 1 44 44 44 44 44 ESBR 31 0 0 0 0 SSBR 2 30 24 24 24 24 natural rubber 0 36 36 36 36 Harz A 3 20 20 0 0 0 Harz B 4 0 0 20 40 40 silicon dioxide 95 95 95 95 105 viscosity , RPA at 100°C G', 15 % (MPa) 0,181 0,215 0,183 0,129 0,149 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 3,805 4,282 3,733 2,116 2,780 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,816 0,745 0,648 0,447 0,457 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 4,92E±06 5,31 E±06 5,76E±06 3,73E±06 4,69E±06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 149 133 135 128 125 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 21,2 23.8 24,0 16,7 16,0 ARES TD at 0°C 0,439 0,358 0,350 0,437 0,446 Wear indicators DIN wear (relative volume loss) 66 50 39 81 76 Grosch abrasion with high severity (mg / km) 462 419 338 298 271 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,54E±07 1,39E±07 1,46E±07 1,30E±07 1,58E±07 RR indicator Rebound at 60°C (%) 43,0 45,5 47,0 44,6 41,7 ARES TD at 30°C 0,327 0,279 0,281 0,320 0,336 *Same formula as for control samples A and D above 1 Polybutadiene, Nd catalyzed 2 Solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber, 33% styrene, 20 ThK oil-extended 3 Alpha methylstyrene resin 4 Bio-based terpene resin, obtained as SYLVATRAXX 8115 from Kraton Chemical

[0095] In Example 3, the rubber polymer blend was modified to shift towards a lower polymer Tg. Experimental samples G–J were tested to evaluate the influence of the bio-based resin and / or silicon dioxide on the predicted performance at increasing concentrations.

[0096] Switching to natural rubber resulted in an increase in stiffness with low elongation for sample H. Switching to the lower polymer Tg had a negative impact on wet grip indicators but showed improved wear, snow, and rolling resistance indicators.

[0097] Doubling the amount of bio-based resin in sample I resulted in a significant improvement in wet grip, albeit at the expense of rolling resistance. The increased plasticizer level was directionally beneficial for snow grip. Overall, the stiffness of the compound was reduced.

[0098] By adding more silicon dioxide in combination with the other modifications, probe J showed that stiffness was restored. The snow indicator was also shown to be equivalent to control F.

[0099] It is concluded that performance characteristics can be controlled and the percentage of renewable / sustainable content can be adjusted by increasing the amount of bio-based resin material and silicon dioxide in a tire. Such a polymer composition can be integrated into a tire tread. EXAMPLE 4

[0100] Experimental Sample L, shown in Table 4, modifies Sample J (which used an increased amount of bio-based resin material), see above, by replacing the petroleum-derived carbon black with equal parts of bio-based carbon black. In Sample M, the non-functionalized SSBR of Control K and Sample L is replaced with a functionalized SSBR. The soybean oil values ​​were also adjusted accordingly to maintain the plasticizer content of the oil-enriched SSBR of Samples K and L.

[0101] Minor vulcanization adjustments were made between samples H, I, and J, while all other ingredient quantities remained the same. All other ingredients and quantities of sample L are identical to sample J, which includes the bio-based resin compared to the petroleum resin of control K and a larger quantity of silicon dioxide filler. Minor vulcanization adjustments were also made to sample K.

[0102] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance, etc.

[0103] The basic formulations are shown in Table 4 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 4 also compares the vulcanized properties of the control sample K and the experimental samples L and M. TABLE 4 Samples control Experimental K* L** M BR 1 44 44 45.4 ESBR 31 0 0 natural rubber 0 36 36 SSBR A 2 30 24 0 SSBR B 3 0 0 18.6 Harz A 4 20 0 0 Harz B 5 0 40 40 silicon dioxide 6 95 105 105 Soot (petroleum-based) 2 0 0 Carbon black (bio-based) 7 0 2 2 viscosity , RPA at 100°C G', 15 % (MPa) 0,192 0,157 0,179 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 3,828 2,755 2,798 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,782 0,495 0,520 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 4,66E±06 3,71 E±06 4,57E±06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 159 118 105 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 21,2 14,1 15,7 ARES TD at 0°C 0,459 0,507 0,422 Wear indicators DIN wear (relative volume loss) 60 84 73 Grosch abrasion with high severity (mg / km) 396 337 288 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,46E±07 1,38E±07 1,51 E±07 RR indicator Back rebound at 60°C (%) 42,2 40,4 41,6 ARES TD at 30°C 0,340 0,363 0,304 *Same wording as control samples A, D and F above **Same formulation as in sample J above, but with the addition of bio-based carbon black **Same formulation as in sample J above, but with the addition of bio-based carbon black 1 Solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber, 33% styrene, 20 ThK oil-extended 2 SSBR, 33% styrene, 20 phr oil-extended 3 SSBR, 21% styrene, functionalized, Sn 4 Alpha methylstyrene resin 5 Bio-based terpene resin obtained as SYLVATRAXX 8115 from Kraton Chemical 6 rice husk ash silicon dioxide 7. Soot based on CO2 raw materials

[0104] Example 4 showed no effect on the properties of the compounds when petroleum-derived carbon black was replaced by bio-based carbon black. Here, the combination of bio-based carbon black and a bio-based resin material with a high silicon dioxide content and a functionalized SBR was tested. The use of the functionalized SBR instead of the non-functionalized SBR showed improved rolling resistance. Only minimal effects were observed on other performance indicators. Therefore, it is concluded that a functionalized polymer can be used in a tire tread compound with several other bio-based materials. EXAMPLE 5

[0105] Experimental Sample O has the same formulation as Sample M, as described above. Sample P adjusts the polymer ratio of Sample O, while all other ingredients and quantities remain the same. This change resulted in an increase in the percentage of renewable materials (content) in the composition.

[0106] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance, etc.

[0107] The basic formulations are shown in Table 5 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 5 also compares the vulcanized properties of control sample N and experimental samples O and P. TABLE 5 Sample control Experimental N* O** P BR 44 45,4 45,4 ESBR 31 0 0 natural rubber 0 36 45 SSBR A 1 30 0 0 SSBR B 2 0 18,6 9,6 Harz A 3 20 0 0 Harz B 4 0 40 40 silicon dioxide 5 95 105 105 Soot (petroleum-based) 2 0 0 Carbon black (bio-based) 6 0 2 2 Percentage (%) recycled / renewable 47 72 75 viscosity , RPA at 100°CG', 15 % (MPa) 0,213 0,168 0,170 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 4,320 2,864 3,242 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,900 0,552 0,548 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 4,49E±06 3,34E±06 3,60E±06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 133 90 109 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 20,9 14,5 15,5 ARES TD at 0°C 0,451 0,496 0,456 Wear indicators DIN wear (relative volume loss) 53 not tested 50 Grosch abrasion with high severity (mg / km) 626 485 481 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,39E±07 1,16E±07 1,14E±07 RR indicator Rebound at 60 °C (%) 42,0 42,4 40,7 ARES TD at 30°C 0,331 0,346 0,340 *Same wording as control samples A, D, F and K above **Same wording as in sample M above 1 SSBR, 33% styrene, 20 phr oil-extended 2 SSBR, 21% styrene, functionalized, Sn 3 Alpha-methylstyrene resin 4 Bio-based terpene resin, obtained as SYLVATRAXX 8115 from Kraton Chemical 5 rice husk ash silicon dioxide 6. Carbon black based on CO2 raw materials

[0108] Prior to this example, sample M showed the most favorable performance results. In example 5, the ratio mixture of the three polymers was adjusted and compared with sample M. This adjustment resulted in a polymer temperature shift (FOX calculation) from -80.0°C to -82.6°C.

[0109] The increased natural rubber content of Experimental Sample P resulted in improved composition stiffness and true tensile strength. Sample P improved wetness, wear, and snow resistance indicators compared to Control N, while also incorporating a significant percentage increase in renewable material content. Rolling resistance indicators were also equivalent to or improved upon compared to Control N and Sample O. EXAMPLE 6

[0110] Experimental Sample R has the same formulation as Sample P above. In Sample S, the ESBR was replaced by a larger quantity of natural rubber. All other ingredients and quantities remained the same. This change resulted in a further increase in the percentage of renewable materials (content) in the composition.

[0111] The rubber compounds were then vulcanized and tested for various properties, including wear, wet traction and rolling resistance, etc.

[0112] The basic formulations are shown in Table 6 below, presented in parts per 100 parts by weight of the elastomer (ThK). Table 6 also compares the vulcanized properties of the control sample Q and the experimental samples R and S. TABLE 6 Samples control Experimental F* R** S BR 44,0 45,4 17,0 ESBR 31 0 0 natural rubber 0 45 83 SSBR A 1 30 0 0 SSBR B 2 0 9.6 0 Harz A 3 20 0 0 Harz B 4 0 40 40 silicon dioxide 5 95 105 105 Soot (petroleum-based) 2 0 0 Carbon black (bio-based) 6 0 2 2 Percentage (%) recycled / renewable 45 75 88 viscosity , RPA at 100°C G', 15 % (MPa) 0,234 0,169 0,152 Stiffness RPA G', 1% (MPa) 4,605 3,441 3,285 RPA G' 50% (MPa) 0,876 0,522 0,495 ARES at 30°C, G' (Pa) 5,87E±06 4,27E±06 3,65E±06 Breaking / Chipping (Chip / Flake) Actual tensile strength 142 107 102 Wet indicator Rebound at 0°C (%) 21,5 17,0 14,5 ARES TD at 0°C 0,397 0,419 0,469 Snow indicator ARES G' at -20°C (Pa) 1,82E±07 1,40E±07 1,22E±07 RR indicator Rebound at 60°C (%) 43,3 42,8 43,3 ARES TD at 30°C 0,306 0,318 0,354 *Same wording as control samples A, D, F, K and N above **Same wording as in sample P above 1 SSBR, 33% styrene, 20 phr oil-extended 2 SSBR, 21% styrene, functionalized, Sn 3 Alpha methylstyrene resin 4 Bio-based terpene resin, obtained as SYLVATRAXX 8115 from Kraton Chemical 5 rice husk ash silicon dioxide 6. Soot-based aut. CO2 raw materials

[0113] To further test an increase in the percentage of renewable content in a tread, the SBR was removed and replaced with additional natural rubber. Furthermore, in this example, with a significant increase, natural rubber now constituted the majority of the rubber polymer in the mixture. This resulted in a polymer temperature shift (FOX calculation) from -82.6 to -72.3°C.

[0114] The polymer modifications resulted in a slight reduction in the stiffness of the composition.

[0115] The increase in natural rubber content raised the proportion of renewable material in the rubber composition from 47% by weight (control Q) to 88% by weight (experimental sample S). Sample S showed improved wet and snow performance compared to control Q and also demonstrated equivalent rolling resistance.

[0116] It is found that a tire tread rubber composition containing a predominant percentage of renewable content from a combination of various renewable materials can achieve or improve the performance of a tire made from a conventional rubber composition. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 6,936,669

[0031] US 7,981,966

[0032] US 8,217,103

[0033] US 8,569,409

[0033] US 2003 / 0096900

[0052] US 8,679,444

[0064] US 10,500,582

[0064] US 17 / 109.262

[0064] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] Standard Methods for Analysis & Testing of Petroleum and Related Products and British Standard 2000, Parts, 2003, 62nd Edition

[0038] Vanderbilt Rubber Handbook, 13th edition, 1990, on pages 417 and 418

[0065] Vanderbilt Rubber Handbook (1978), pages 344 to 346

[0072]

Claims

[1] A tire component formed from a rubber composition comprising a predominant weight percentage of renewable materials, wherein the rubber composition, based on 100 parts by weight (ThK) elastomer, comprises: a mixture of at least two rubber elastomers, selected from a group consisting of: from 30 ThK to 60 ThK polybutadiene; up to 60 ThK of one or more styrene-butadiene copolymers; up to 45 ThK natural rubber; a bio-based resin material, and a bio-based filler comprising silicon dioxide and carbon black filler, wherein said carbon black filler was obtained at least partially from a bio-based starting material prior to its addition to the rubber composition. [2] The tire component according to claim 1, wherein the rubber composition contains 40 ThK to 50 ThK polybutadiene. [3] The tire component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rubber composition comprises more than 75% or more than 85% renewable material. [4] The tire component according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the resin is a terpene resin, preferably an alpha-pinene resin. [5] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the rubber composition excludes one, any two or all of the following elements: a petroleum-derived resin, a petroleum-derived oil and a petroleum-derived filler. [6] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture of rubber elastomers comprises an emulsion-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (ESBR), preferably 5 ThK to 35 ThK or 25 ThK to 35 ThK of said emulsion-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (ESBR). [7] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims 1 to 5 wherein the mixture of rubber elastomers excludes emulsion polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (ESBR). [8] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture of rubber elastomers comprises solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (SSBR), preferably 5 to 35 ThK or 15 to 30 ThK of said solution-polymerized styrene-butadiene copolymer (SSBR), and wherein the SSBR is optionally oil-extended. [9] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, wherein the mixture of rubber elastomers comprises functionalized SSBR from 5 to 15 ThK. [10] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture comprises rubber elastomers of 15 ThK to 45 ThK natural rubber or of 35 ThK to 45 ThK natural rubber. [11] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixture of rubber elastomers excludes ESBR. [12] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims comprising 80 ThK to 150 ThK silicon dioxide and / or 1 to 15 ThK carbon black. [13] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the silicon dioxide was obtained from rice hull ash. [14] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims comprising 10 ThK to 50 ThK resin. [15] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the carbon black is produced from a starting material that does not contain fossil carbon before being added to the rubber composition. [16] The tire component according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the tire component is a tire tread.