Aluminum Compounds Prepared with Spray Pyrolysis in Tyre Compounds Formulations: Mechanical and Heat Conductivity Behavior of Tyre Tread

Increasing the heat conductivity of rubber compounds is important from viewpoint of properties of uniform distribution in different points of rubber parts and reducing the curing time that affects the quality and the final price of the product. Morphology of alumina powder obtained from spray pyrolysis technology is suitable, so it could be considered as an efficient filler for tyre compounds. Morphology, composition and crystal size of a novel powder were investigated using SEM and XRD and dispergrader, respectively. The powder was added to a SBR/BR- based tyre tread formulation and the curing and mechanical properties as well as heat conductivity behavior were determined. Heat diffusivity properties were calculated by Abaqus simulation software with the aid of an experimental temperature profile in the center of the rubber part It was observed that the heat conductivity of the rubber was improved at 3 phr alumina, which was attributed to the improvement of phonon transport phenomena in rubber matrix in the presence of heat conductive filler besides carbon black. A considerable improvement in DeMatia crack growth behavior of the compound was also observed in the presence of the new filler. The other mechanical properties experienced no significant changes, except tear resistance. The rheometry results showed that the curing rate of the compounds decreased in the presence of powder, which was attributed to the surface acidic nature and the presence of surface hydroxide groups. So, it is necessary to do a comprehensive study to investigate the potential of this filler in reducing tyre curing time.