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Matching the Proper Process Promoter to the Performance and Processing Requirements for Modern Tire Applications
Today’s modern tire applications require a variety of rubber compounds to meet their performance requirements and still process efficiently. Since each compound has different polymer blends, cure systems, and reinforcement combinations and performance requirements, choosing the proper process promoter is critical to achieving cost effective processability. Some compounds require viscosity modification and extrusion speed, while those with high silica loadings need a process promoter capable of separating the silica agglomerates to improve mixing efficiency. Rhein Chemie Additives has developed a complete line of process promoters that can match the needs of these compounds. Aflux 90, Aflux 37 and Rhenofit STA/S represent the newest products in this line. This paper will show the advantages of selecting the correct process promoter for the application and the advantages of these new products in improving the efficiency and performance of highly loaded silica reinforced compounds.