EngD position: Tire compounds filled with short-cut fibers

Short-cut fibers are promising advanced materials for enhancing the performance of elastomeric compounds and tires. The use of such fibers requires new compounding strategies to optimize compound performance.

In the proposed study, both dipped and undipped short-cut fibers will be incorporated into tire compounds. To improve fiber dispersion, a pre-dispersion or surface treatment will be conducted, followed by optimized mixing and the use of modern, high-performance coupling agents. Additionally, compounding will include traditional particulate fillers (such as carbon black and silica) and other essential ingredients to achieve optimal compound properties and tire performance. The anticipated improvements in reinforcement and reductions in hysteresis will be evaluated.

Objectives of project proposal:

• Enhance mechanical strength and modulus by incorporating lightweight reinforcing materials
• Improve cut and tear resistance to increase durability
• Reduce internal friction to enhance performance through lower rolling resistance

The newly developed short-cut fiber-filled compounds will be utilized in a tire prototype to evaluate improvements in overall tire performance.

This study of fiber-reinforced elastomeric composites aims to support the development of innovative, high-performance tire products, focusing on weight reduction, increased strength, and improved rolling resistance.