Tires are comprised of up to 60 different components, ranging from chemicals and fillers to multiple types of rubber and reinforcing cords. The Pushing the Limits of Silica Fillers for Tire Applications (Goodyear Tire) investigation evaluates creation of novel silica forms and structures, or morphologies, using traditional techniques to form silica fillers in microgravity. The space environment may yield results not possible in ground-based environments. Better understanding of silica morphology and the relationship between silica structure and properties may improve the silica design process as well as silica rubber formulation and tire manufacturing and performance on the ground.

jsc2019e040131 (7/17/2019) --- Tires are comprised of up to 60 different components, ranging from chemicals and fillers to multiple types of rubber and reinforcing cords. The Pushing the Limits of Silica Fillers for Tire Applications (Goodyear Tire) investigation evaluates creation of novel silica forms and structures, or morphologies, using traditional techniques to form silica fillers in microgravity. The space environment may yield results not possible in ground-based environments. Better understanding of silica morphology and the relationship between silica structure and properties may improve the silica design process as well as silica rubber formulation and tire manufacturing and performance on the ground. (Image courtesy of: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company)