Branched Elastomer Polymers With Controlled Branching for Tire Rubber
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Solution Overview
Problem
The extent of branching in polymers affects the properties of rubber compositions, particularly in tire components, influencing tread wear and hysteresis characteristics, which existing methods do not effectively address.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the reaction of a first elastomeric polymer with a molar excess of a second elastomeric polymer, followed by hydrolysis, to produce branched polymers suitable for rubber compositions, utilizing silane polymerization initiators and terminators to form branched polymers with controlled branching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If existing polymerization methods are used to produce branched polymers, then polymer production is achieved, but the extent of branching cannot be effectively controlled to optimize tread wear and hysteresis characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the molar ratio of crosslinking agent to polymer, the molecular weight of polymers, and the extent of functional group substitution. These parameter adjustments enable precise control over the degree of branching in the resulting polymer, directly addressing the need to optimize tread wear and hysteresis characteristics through controlled branching extent
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-functionalizing polymers with specific end groups (such as silane groups) before the crosslinking reaction. This preliminary functionalization ensures that the polymers are ready for controlled crosslinking, allowing precise control over branching extent during the subsequent crosslinking stage, thereby achieving reliable optimization of tire performance characteristics
2Ease of manufacture
If a molar excess of second elastomeric polymer is used in the reaction, then branched polymer production is achieved, but the complexity of the reaction mixture increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the crosslinking process into distinct stages: first, reacting the first elastomeric polymer with a molar excess of second elastomeric polymer to form a controlled intermediate mixture; then, adding a crosslinking agent to achieve crosslinking. This segmented approach manages the complexity of the reaction mixture by controlling the sequence of reactions rather than adding all components simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a crosslinking agent as a mediator that facilitates the crosslinking reaction between the first and second elastomeric polymers. This intermediary substance enables controlled crosslinking without requiring direct complex interaction between the polymers themselves, simplifying the overall reaction system while achieving the desired branched structure
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 method produces branched polymers that enhance the properties of rubber compositions, improving tread wear and hysteresis characteristics in tire components.
Implementation Method 1
The method further comprises hydrolyzing the first mixture so that 2EP and 3EP react with one another to produce a branched polymer
Implementation Method 2
2EP and 3EP react with one another to produce a branched polymer
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the purpose(s) of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, the disclosure, in one aspect, relates to a method for making branched polymers. In one aspect the method comprises reacting a first elastomeric polymer (1EP) with a molar excess of a second elastomeric polymer (2EP) to produce a first mixture comprising a third elastomeric polymer (3EP) and 2EP. 1EP and 2EP each individually comprise a polymer with a first terminus and a second terminus, where a residue of a silane polymerization initiator is covalently bonded to the first terminus of the polymer and where the polymers and silane polymerization initiators of 1EP and 2EP can be the same or different. 1EP further comprises a residue of a silane polymerization terminator covalently bonded to the second terminus of the polymer. The method further comprises hydrolyzing the first mixture so that 2EP and 3EP react with one another to produce a branched polymer. Polymers produced by this method can be included in articles comprising rubber compositions, such as tires or components of tires.