Wood science researchers at Oregon State University have made some surprising findings about the potential of microcrystalline cellulose – a product they say can be made easily from almost any type of plant fibers – to replace silica as a reinforcing filler in manufacture of rubber tires.
A new study suggests that this approach might decrease the energy required to produce the tire, reduce costs, and better resist heat buildup. Early trials indicate that such products would have comparable traction on cold or wet pavement, be just as strong, and provide even higher fuel efficiency than traditional tires in hot weather.
"We were surprised at how favorable the results were for the use of this material," says Kaichang Li, an associate professor of wood science and engineering at the OSU College of Forestry, who conducted the study with graduate student Wen Bai.
"This could lead to a new generation of automotive tire technology, one of the first fundamental changes to come along in a long time," says Li.
Cellulose fiber has been used for some time as reinforcement in some types of rubber and automotive products, such as belts, hoses and insulation, but never in tires where the preferred fillers are carbon black and silica.
Carbon black, however, is made from increasingly expensive oil, and the processing of silica is energy-intensive. Both products are very dense and reduce the fuel efficiency of automobiles.
Just what impact greater use of cellulose could play in improving markets for forest products – one part of the agricultural production arena – remains unknown. (Tire Review/Akron)
