Improving the Properties of the Tire Tread by Adding SiO2 and Al2O3

Particulate reinforced elastomer composite was prepared by adding reinforcing fillers Al2O3 and SiO2 separately to the two separated matrices; natural rubber (NR) and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), at different loading levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 pphr). Also many specific tests are performed on these composites. The effects of the variables (matrix type, fillers type and their loading level) on the mechanical properties which include:ultimate tensile strength, elongation percentage at break, modulus of elasticity, compression modulus, hardness, abrasion wear resistance and rebound resilience were studied. The effect on the physical properties which include: swelling, thermal conductivity, and specific gravity were also studied.