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Emulsil Silica Masterbatch – a New Route to High Performance Smartway Truck Retread Compounds
The benefits of incorporating silica in tire tread compounds has been well established in the Passenger and Light Truck market based on superior performance in rolling resistance, wear and wet traction. Global tire labeling initiatives along with increased consumer awareness is driving the demand for tires with silica technology. The use of silica in Heavy truck tire tread and retread compounds is a more recent development. The Smartway Transport Partnership program has resulted in a new emphasis on reduced rolling resistance in Class 8 tires from both OEM and Retread suppliers. Industrias Negromex S.A. de C.V. (INSA) has commercialized a broad line of unique Emulsil Silica Masterbatch products based on a patented process (US Patent 8357733). INSA Emulsil Silica Masterbatch products with low levels of extender oil have been demonstrated to be an excellent base for truck retread compounds with low rolling resistance. This performance has been recognized by the achievement of Smartway certification for Class 8 truck retread products based on the Emulsil Silica Masterbatch. In this presentation we will introduce basic concepts of silica masterbatch technology and its use in Truck tread compounds. Specific benefits will be covered including processing efficiencies, elimination of alcohol emissions, silica dispersion, compound properties, and tire test performance. The silica masterbatch product is available through the “Emulsil” product line offered by Kuo Elastomers.