Functionalized Polymers for Low Hysteresis Tires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rubber vulcanizates used in tire manufacturing exhibit high hysteresis and cold flow issues, leading to increased rolling resistance and handling difficulties, which are unpredictable when functionalized with conventional functionalizing agents and catalyst systems.
Innovation Solution
The method involves polymerizing conjugated diene monomers with a lanthanide-based catalyst system to produce reactive cis-1,4-polydienes, which are then functionalized with azodiesters to reduce hysteresis and cold flow, resulting in improved tire component properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If lanthanide-based catalyst systems are used to polymerize conjugated diene monomers, then cis-1,4-linkage content and tensile properties are improved, but cold flow increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a specific functional group (azodiester) at controlled concentrations (0.1-10 mmol per mole of diene monomer) to modify the polymer's physical properties. This functionalization changes the molecular structure parameters to reduce cold flow while preserving the mechanical properties provided by the cis-1,4-linkage structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite functionalized polymer where the azodiester group is chemically bonded to the polydiene backbone. This composite structure combines the beneficial mechanical properties of high cis-1,4-content polydiene with the cold-flow-reducing effects of the azodiester functional group, achieving both improved strength and reduced cold flow.
2Loss of energy
If conventional functionalizing agents are used to reduce hysteresis, then filler interaction may improve, but the effect is unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically varies the functional group concentration parameter (0.1-10 mmol of azodiester per mole of diene monomer) to optimize hysteresis reduction. This controlled parameter adjustment provides predictable outcomes, eliminating the unpredictability associated with conventional functionalizing agents while achieving reduced energy loss through improved filler interaction.
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 functionalized polymers demonstrate reduced hysteresis and cold flow, enhancing tire performance by lowering rolling resistance and improving storage and handling characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
Lanthanide-based catalyst systems are known to be useful for polymerizing conjugated diene monomer to form polydienes having a high content of cis-1,4-linkage
Implementation Method 2
reacting the reactive polymer with an azodiester
Data Source
AI summary
A method for preparing a functionalized polymer, the method comprising the steps of: (i) polymerizing monomer to form a reactive polymer, and (ii) reacting the reactive polymer with an azodiester.