Wet Grip

The trend towards faster and saver cars is going on. However, the single contact area to the street is given by the tires. Therefore, tires play a major role in the balance of driving fun and safety demands especially on wet road surfaces. Though the scientific basics of the wet braking phenomenons are still under investigation, one thing is clear: The introduction of the silica silane system in the early 90’s led to an immediate improvement of wet breaking distances by approx. 7 %. The filler silica bears a polar surface. In contrast to the non-polar Carbon Black, Silica containing rubber compounds can easilier penetrate a water film on the road surface. Contacts to the road surface can be guaranteed even under wet conditions. Together with the unique viscoelastic properties of silica-filled rubber compounds the stringent safety requirements of modern passenger car tire treads can be fulfilled. And even here rubber silanes can be seen as key ingredients. The reinforcement of the rubber compound requires the use of silane. Only then the balance between wet grip, wear and rolling resistance is guaranteed.