DEVELOPMENT OF A TYRE MODIFIED WITH NATURAL RUBBER: AIMING FOR A PETROLEUM FREE TYRE

摘要

The response of society and that of the tyre industry to environmental issues is considered. The history of the materials used in tyre manufacture is outlined. The possibility of using inorganic fillers, vegetable oils and modifications of natural rubber, e.g. epoxidised NR, as non-petroleum materials in tyre manufacture is discussed and the improvements which can be achieved in rolling resistance and braking performance on wet road surfaces are described. 5 refs. (Article translated from Nippon Gomu Kyokaishi, No.2, 2008, p.51-57)