Functionalized Elastomer Filler Dispersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rubber formulations for tire treads face challenges in achieving optimal filler dispersion and interaction, particularly with carbon black and silica, which affects rolling resistance and traction characteristics, as existing methods do not adequately enhance the affinity between rubber polymers and fillers.
Innovation Solution
The development of a functionalized elastomer through the reaction of a living anionic elastomeric polymer with a specific polymerization terminator, improving the affinity of rubbery polymers for fillers like carbon black and silica, thereby enhancing filler dispersion and reducing hysteresis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rubber formulations use conventional polymers without functionalization, then the formulation is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the affinity between rubber and fillers (carbon black, silica) is insufficient, leading to poor dispersion and higher rolling resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the chemical structure of rubber polymers through functionalization. Specifically, it introduces oxygen-containing functional groups (such as carboxyl, hydroxyl, or carbonyl groups) at the chain ends of polymer molecules. This chemical parameter change enhances the polarity and affinity of the rubber for polar filler surfaces like carbon black and silica, improving dispersion without fundamentally changing the base polymer structure or requiring complex composite formulations.
2Reliability
If rubber formulations use blends of various synthetic and natural rubbers to achieve desired viscoelastic properties, then the tread wear and rolling resistance characteristics improve, but the formulation complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by functionalizing only the chain ends of polymer molecules rather than modifying the entire polymer structure. This localized functionalization at the molecular level (specifically at the terminus of polymer chains) provides the necessary affinity for fillers and desired viscoelastic properties without requiring complex blends of multiple rubber types. The functional groups are concentrated at specific locations (chain ends) rather than distributed throughout the entire polymer structure.
3Reliability
If filler dispersion in rubber is poor, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the rolling resistance increases and traction characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the rubber polymer itself to provide the affinity and bonding capability for fillers through its own functional groups. The oxygen-containing functional groups at the polymer chain ends naturally attract and bond to filler surfaces without requiring external coupling agents, surfactants, or complex dispersion additives. The polymer functionalizes itself to create the necessary interaction with fillers, improving dispersion uniformity and traction characteristics while simplifying the overall formulation.
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
This approach results in lower rolling resistance and improved traction characteristics by increasing the interaction between rubber and fillers, as evidenced by reduced tan delta values, indicating better polymer-filler interaction and dispersion.
Implementation Method 1
a functionalized elastomer comprising the reaction product of a living anionic elastomeric polymer and a polymerization terminator
Implementation Method 2
The interaction between rubber and carbon black has been attributed to a combination of physical absorption (van der Waals force) and chemisorption between the oxygen containing functional groups on the carbon black surface and the rubber
Implementation Method 3
The interaction between rubber and carbon black has been attributed to a combination of physical absorption (van der Waals force) and chemisorption
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a functionalized elastomer comprising the reaction product of a living anionic elastomeric polymer and a polymerization terminator of formula Iwherein R1 is C1 to C4 linear alkyl, or C1 to C4 branched alkanediyl; X1, X2, X3 are independently O, S, or a group of formula (II) or (III)where R2 is C1 to C18 linear or branched alkyl; and Z is —R3—CH═CH—R4, where R3 is a covalent bond or C1 to C18 linear or branched alkanediyl, and R4 is a hydrogen or C1 to C18 linear or branched alkyl.