Modified Diene Elastomer Rubber Composition for Low Hysteresis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rubber compositions for tires face challenges in reducing hysteresis while maintaining mechanical properties, particularly in achieving low rolling resistance without compromising other properties.
Innovation Solution
A rubber composition incorporating a modified diene elastomer with an alkoxysilane group, optionally hydrolysed to silanol, and another function, which has a specific polydispersity index and Mooney viscosity range, along with a reinforcing filler, crosslinking system, and plasticizing system, to enhance the balance of properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If diene polymers are functionalized with alkoxysilane derivatives to improve interaction with reinforcing filler, then the mechanical properties are improved, but the hysteresis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the polydispersity index (1.1-1.6) and Mooney viscosity (50-80) of the diene elastomer, and by specifying the glass transition temperature range (less than -50°C). These parameter optimizations enable the elastomer to achieve both good mechanical properties and reduced hysteresis, resolving the contradiction between strength and energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material system by functionalizing the diene elastomer with alkoxysilane groups that can interact with siliceous reinforcing fillers. This composite approach improves mechanical properties through filler-polymer interaction while the optimized elastomer parameters keep hysteresis low.
2Loss of energy
If the hysteresis of rubber mixtures is reduced to lower rolling resistance, then energy efficiency is improved, but other properties of the mixtures may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes multiple parameters simultaneously: polydispersity index (1.1-1.6), Mooney viscosity (50-80), and glass transition temperature (less than -50°C). This multi-parameter optimization ensures that hysteresis is reduced while mechanical properties and other mixture characteristics are maintained or improved.
Solution Approach 2:
The modified diene elastomer with alkoxysilane groups serves multiple functions: it provides good mechanical properties, maintains low hysteresis, ensures proper interaction with reinforcing fillers, and allows for crosslinking. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving energy efficiency without sacrificing other critical properties.
3Strength
If diene elastomers with different macrostructure are used to maintain mechanical properties, then the mechanical strength is preserved, but the hysteresis cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent identifies and controls specific macrostructural parameters: polydispersity index (1.1-1.6) and Mooney viscosity (50-80). By optimizing these parameters, the elastomer achieves both preserved mechanical properties and reduced hysteresis, breaking the traditional trade-off between these two characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by functionalizing the elastomer chains with alkoxysilane groups at specific locations, creating localized interaction zones with reinforcing fillers. This localized functionalization improves mechanical properties without requiring changes to the overall macrostructure that would increase hysteresis.
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 composition effectively lowers hysteresis and rolling resistance of tires, improving their mechanical properties and processing characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
at least one alkoxysilane group, which is optionally partially or totally hydrolysed to silanol
Data Source
AI summary
A rubber composition based on at least a reinforcing filler, a crosslinking system, a plasticizing system and an elastomer matrix is provided. The elastomer matrix includes at least one modified diene elastomer comprising within its structure at least one alkoxysilane group, which is optionally partially or totally hydrolysed to silanol, bonded to the elastomer by the silicon atom. The alkoxysilane group optionally bears another function bonded to the silicon atom directly or by means of a spacer group. The modified diene elastomer is such that, before modification, the diene elastomer has a polydispersity index of at least 1.1 and at most 1.6, and has a Mooney viscosity ranging from 50 to 80 and a glass transition temperature (Tg) of strictly less than −50° C., preferably less than or equal to −60° C., and greater than or equal to −110° C.