Development of cooler running PCR tire tread using SBR–ENR–nano clay composite

In this investigation, the emphasis is given to the partial replacement of carbon black by an optimized level of Cloisite 15A, an organoclay in a typical styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) based passenger car tire tread compound. The effect of epoxidized natural rubber with 50 % epoxidation (ENR 50) on the properties of organoclay-SBR composite was also studied. Curing studies shows that both ENR 50 and nanoclay decreases the scorch time and cure time due to the activation of an adjacent double bond by the presence of epoxide group in the ENR and the amine groups present in the organic modifier in the nanoclay structure. The incorporation of ENR showed better dispersion and exfoliation of nanoclay in the rubber matrix. Synergistic reinforcement effect of high abrasion furnace carbon black (HAF/N330) on the mechanical properties, dynamic mechanical properties, heat build up and abrasion resistance in the SBR–ENR–clay nanocomposites having the optimized clay level was investigated. SBR–ENR–carbon black hybrids with 25 phr N330 and 6 phr nanoclay have shown better reinforcement, significantly lower heat generation, comparable/similar rolling resistance (indicated by tan δ at 60 °C) and wet skid resistance with that of conventional SBR–carbon black (40 phr N330) loaded composites.