A Materials Approach to Fuel Efficient Tires

Recent legislative actions in passenger fleet fuel efficiency standards have increased the need for technological improvements in passenger automobiles.  The Department of Energy, through the Vehicle Technology Program (VTP) has been sponsoring a multifaceted approach to improve fuel efficiency within engine, drive train, battery, tire, and other technologies.  PPG has been participating in this program through the design of advanced silica technology to further expand the “magic triangle” of passenger tire performance.  A research methodology by which key structure-property relationships are established between silica morphology, surface functionality, and rubber properties has been employed to expand the benefits of silica technology.  In this presentation an overview of the program goals, the research methodologies applied and characteristic examples of key rubber property improvements realized from these newly developed silicas will be presented.