The Use of Design of Experiments and Statistical Analysis in Rubber Compounding: The Case Study of Organoclay Use in Tyre Tread Compound based on two levels Factorial Design of Experiment

Three factors at two levels experimental design were used to study the effect of organoclay on the curing characteristics and other key properties of radial passenger tire tread compound to demonstrate the potential of design of experiments and statistical analysis in rubber compounding studies. Linear regression models based on two-level factorial experimental design, including the main effects and interaction effects were validated and then were employed to study the behaviors as well as optimization in the presence of organoclay. It was observed that decrease of optimum curing time with no significant drop in other properties may be possible at approximately 1 phr organoclay and some decrease of sulfur level.