Effect of demineralized water on the silanization reaction and the performance properties of green tire tread compound.

Tire industries seek advancements in technologies ranging from novel constructions to new material systems for fuel efficiency. The chemical formulation of tread compounds and their processing conditions can significantly affect tire performance for key attributes, including rolling resistance, wet traction, and wear resistance. Adding demineralized water (DMW) molecules might enhance the silanization reaction between silane and silica filler surface via improved hydrolysis and condensation, resulting in a better silanization reaction. DMW was sprayed on a silica surface before mixing, incorporated with TESPD silane into S‐SBR/BR tire tread compound, and mixed in an internal mixer. The effects of an increase in the DMW content on compound processability, cure characteristics, filler dispersion, dynamic properties, and mechanical properties were investigated. Adding the water‐treated silica into the compound lowered the heat generation during mixing, lowered the dump temperature, lowered the tan δ (E″/E′) at 60°C, and increased the wet grip property by retaining the abrasion resistance compared with the control. The enhancement of filler dispersion was visualized via scanning electron microscope images. Reaction kinetics concerning the addition of water and the effect of the pH of water on the silanization reaction is also discussed using HPLC analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]