End-Functionalized Conjugated Diene Polymer for Tire Tread
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tire treads made from conjugated diene-based rubber with inorganic fillers face issues of high hysteresis loss and low dispersibility, failing to achieve superior wet grip, mechanical strength, and fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An end-functionalized conjugated diene-based polymer is developed, represented by specific chemical formulas, which is synthesized by polymerizing a conjugated diene-based monomer with a vinyl aromatic monomer using an organometallic compound, followed by end-capping and modification to enhance compatibility with inorganic fillers and improve properties like tensile strength and fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional conjugated diene-based rubber is mixed with inorganic filler to enhance mechanical strength and durability, then tensile strength is improved, but dispersibility of the filler deteriorates and hysteresis loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing functional groups (such as silane, hydroxyl, or carboxyl groups) into the conjugated diene-based polymer before mixing with inorganic filler. This pre-modification enables the polymer to have improved compatibility and affinity with the filler surface, ensuring better dispersibility from the outset rather than attempting to correct poor dispersion after mixing. The functional groups act as preliminary anchors that facilitate uniform distribution of filler particles throughout the rubber matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs functional groups as intermediary substances that mediate the interaction between the conjugated diene-based polymer and inorganic filler. These functional groups (silane, hydroxyl, carboxyl) serve as chemical bridges that can interact with both the polymer chains and the filler surface, improving the interfacial adhesion and dispersibility. This intermediary approach allows for better stress transfer and reduces filler aggregation without requiring extreme mixing conditions.
2Strength
If conventional conjugated diene-based rubber is mixed with inorganic filler to enhance mechanical strength, then tensile strength is improved, but hysteresis loss increases reducing fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-modifying the conjugated diene-based polymer with functional groups before filler incorporation. This pre-functionalization creates optimal interfacial conditions that minimize energy dissipation through filler-polymer interactions. By establishing proper chemical affinity in advance, the system reduces hysteresis losses during dynamic deformation, thereby improving fuel efficiency while maintaining tensile strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the chemical structure of the polymer through introduction of functional groups. This changes the interfacial properties and interaction mechanisms between polymer and filler, leading to reduced hysteresis loss. The functional groups alter the energy dissipation characteristics of the filler-polymer interface, allowing for lower hysteresis while maintaining or improving tensile strength properties.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional conjugated diene-based rubber is used to provide basic rubber properties, then processing is simplified, but compatibility with inorganic filler deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing functional groups at specific locations (end positions or side chains) of the polymer molecules rather than uniformly throughout the entire polymer structure. This localized functionalization provides targeted compatibility enhancement at the polymer-filler interface while preserving the bulk processing characteristics of the conventional conjugated diene-based rubber. The functional groups are strategically positioned to maximize filler interaction without compromising overall processability.
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 end-functionalized polymer achieves superior compatibility with inorganic fillers, reducing hysteresis loss, enhancing tensile strength, wear resistance, and fuel efficiency, while maintaining wet grip, thus improving tire performance.
Implementation Method 1
polymerizing a conjugated diene-based monomer or a conjugated diene-based monomer and a vinyl aromatic monomer with an organometallic compound in the presence of a solvent, thus forming an active polymer having a metal end
Implementation Method 2
end-capping the active polymer having a metal end with a compound represented by Chemical Formula 2 below; and (c) modifying the active polymer with a compound represented by Chemical Formula 3 below
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an end-functionalized conjugated diene-based polymer represented by Chemical Formula 1 and a method of preparing the same.