The evaluation of the relationship between the microstructure and properties of the tire tread containing carbon black/silica hybrid nanoparticles

Abstract

Today, air pollution is considered as one of the most important challenges of mankind, which is affected by the pollutants emitted by vehicles in cities. Given that the greatest loss of the kinetic energy generated by car engine occurs in the tires due to the rolling resistance, a reduction in their rolling resistance lowers fuel consumption and decreases air pollution. Additionally, the change in the formulation of tire tread components significantly decreases the rolling resistance. In addition, the change in the component formulation requires a variation in the conditions of tire processing, which results in altering the tire mechanical properties. The present study evaluated the effect of adding nanocarbon black with various sizes and nanosilica at different levels into the formulation of tire tread component on the rheological properties. Further, their effect on the mechanical properties and efficiency of produced components, were evaluated. The results of rheological study represented higher viscosity following a rise in nanosilica concentration and a decrease in the size of nanocarbon black. Based on the results of mechanical properties, the elastic modulus at 100 and 300% of component increased by raising the level of nanosilica, while decreased while using smaller nanocarbon black. Finally, the relation between microstructure and properties was presented for the obtained nanocomposites and some of the structure parameters was examined using small-angle X-ray scattering technique.