Tyre Tread Resin Composition for Wide-Temperature Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-performance tires face challenges in maintaining optimal grip performance across a wide temperature range, both on dry and wet surfaces, without compromising processability, mechanical strength, and wear resistance.
Innovation Solution
A vulcanised elastomeric compound is developed, comprising a mixture of styrene-butadiene polymer, isoprene polymer, and a resin mixture with varying softening temperatures, along with reinforcing fillers and vulcanising agents, to enhance the tan δ/E′ ratio for improved grip and mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If resin plasticisers with high styrene content and low molecular weight are used to increase Tg and improve high-temperature grip, then the hysteresis is modulated, but the processability and mechanical strength are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes the molecular weight parameters of resin plasticisers within specific ranges (200-6,000 g/mol, preferably 400-3,000 g/mol) and styrene content (25-100% by weight). By controlling these parameters, the resin mixture achieves optimal solubilisation in the elastomeric compound, ensuring good processability during tyre manufacturing while maintaining high grip performance through appropriate Tg modification
Solution Approach 2:
The resin mixture is designed with specific local properties: low molecular weight resins (200-2,000 g/mol) provide good solubilisation and processability, while higher molecular weight resins (up to 6,000 g/mol) contribute to mechanical strength and wear resistance. The intermediate Tr resin (50-110°C) specifically addresses the processability window during manufacturing, creating local quality optimization at different stages
2Reliability
If resin plasticisers are used to modulate hysteresis and increase Tg, then the grip performance is improved, but the mechanical strength and wear resistance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The composite resin mixture includes phenolic resins and terpenic resins with intermediate Tr values (50-110°C) that specifically contribute to maintaining mechanical strength and wear resistance. These resins form a balanced system where low Tr resins enhance grip through Tg modification, while intermediate Tr resins preserve structural integrity, achieving both improved grip performance and maintained mechanical properties
Solution Approach 2:
The invention specifies optimal molecular weight ranges (200-6,000 g/mol) and styrene content (25-100% by weight) for resin plasticisers. By controlling these parameters, the resin mixture achieves optimal balance between hysteresis modulation for grip enhancement and preservation of mechanical strength, avoiding excessive softening that would compromise structural integrity
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 solution provides improved grip performance at both high and low temperatures, maintaining mechanical strength and wear resistance, with a wider useful temperature range for high-performance tires.
Implementation Method 1
they also modulate the glass transition temperature (Tg), causing an increase in value thereof
Implementation Method 2
Such elastomeric compositions are characterised by a high hysteresis (Tan δ) and a low elastic dynamic modulus (E′) at high temperatures
Implementation Method 3
a tread band applied in a radially external position with respect to said carcass and/or belt structure; characterised in that said tread band comprises a vulcanised elastomeric compound obtained by vulcanisation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a high-performance tyre for vehicle wheels comprising a tread made with a vulcanised elastomeric compound obtained by vulcanising a vulcanisable elastomeric compound comprising (i) a composition of elastomeric polymers consisting of at least one high Tg styrene-butadiene polymer (SBR) and optionally at least one low Tg isoprene (IR) polymer and (ii) a resin mixture consisting of at least one low Tr resin, at least one high Tr resin, and optionally at least one resin with intermediate Tr.