Alkoxysilane-Polyol Functionalizing Compound for Polymer End-Functionalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rubber compositions used in tire treads face challenges in reducing rolling resistance (hysteresis) effectively, particularly when functionalized with silicon and heteroatoms, as existing methods do not adequately address the need for improved polymer end functionalization to enhance performance.
Innovation Solution
A process involving the reaction of an alkoxysilane compound with a polyol to produce a functionalizing compound containing —O—Si—O— moieties, which is then used to end-functionalize reactive conjugated diene monomer-containing polymers, resulting in polymers with enhanced silicon-based functional groups for improved tire tread performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional rubber compositions are used in tire treads, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but rolling resistance (hysteresis) cannot be effectively reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-reacting alkoxysilane compounds with polyols to create functionalizing compounds containing —O—Si—O— moieties before the polymerization step. This pre-functionalization allows the silicon-based groups to be readily available for subsequent reaction with polymer ends, enabling effective reduction of rolling resistance through improved filler-polymer interaction without requiring complex in-process modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses functionalizing compounds as intermediaries that bridge the polymer and filler components. These compounds containing silicon-based functional groups act as mediators that enhance the interaction between the polymer matrix and silica filler, thereby reducing hysteresis and rolling resistance. The intermediary facilitates better dispersion and bonding at the polymer-filler interface
2Reliability
If polymer end functionalization with silicon-based groups is implemented, then interaction with fillers is improved and hysteresis is reduced, but the number of process steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionalization step with the polymer production process by incorporating the reaction of functionalizing compounds with polymer ends as an integrated step in the polymerization process. This combining of steps achieves reliable filler-polymer interaction while maintaining production efficiency, as the functionalization occurs during or immediately after polymerization without requiring separate batch processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by controlling the timing and conditions of the functionalization reaction. By adjusting parameters such as reaction temperature, catalyst selection, and the ratio of functionalizing compound to polymer, the process optimizes both the quality of filler-polymer interaction and the overall production rate, balancing reliability and productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The process leads to a significant decrease in rolling resistance and improved cold flow resistance in rubber compositions, as demonstrated by increased bound rubber content and reduced tan δ values, indicating better interaction with fillers and reduced hysteresis.
Implementation Method 1
reacting an alkoxysilane compound of formula (I) with a polyol of formula (II), to produce a functionalizing compound containing at least two —O—Si—O— moieties
Implementation Method 2
reacting the functionalizing compound with a reactive conjugated diene monomer-containing polymer, thereby producing a polymer end functionalized with the functionalizing compound
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are processes for preparing functionalized polymers, functionalizing compounds useful in the processes and processes for preparing the functionalizing compound. The processes for preparing a functionalized polymer include reaction of a functionalizing compound (prepared from the reaction of an alkoxysilane compound of formula (I) with a polyol of formula (II)) with a reactive conjugated diene monomer-containing polymer, thereby producing a polymer end functionalized with the functionalizing compound. In certain embodiments, the functionalizing compound has a formula according to formula (III), (IV), or (V).