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Sustainable Rubber Solutions: A Study on Bio-Based Oil and Resin Blends

  • 0Elastomer Technology & Engineering, Department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3), Faculty of Engineering Technology, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands.
Polymers +

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August 14, 2025

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August 14, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study demonstrates that blending bio-based plasticizers, specifically Hexamoll DINCH and Escorez 5300, can maintain the glass transition temperature (T<sub>g</sub>) of rubber compounds. This approach offers a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based oils, balancing tire performance with environmental goals.

Area Of Science

  • Materials Science
  • Polymer Chemistry
  • Sustainable Engineering

Background

  • The tire industry faces pressure to achieve carbon neutrality and use 100% sustainable materials by 2050.
  • Petroleum-based plasticizers like Treated Distillate Aromatic Extract (TDAE) are common but unsustainable.
  • Replacing TDAE with bio-based alternatives can negatively impact the glass transition temperature (T<sub>g</sub>) and tire properties.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the use of a plasticizer blend as a sustainable alternative to TDAE.
  • To determine if a blend of bio-based oil and resin can achieve similar T<sub>g</sub> values as TDAE in rubber compounds.
  • To evaluate the impact of such blends on tire performance characteristics.

Main Methods

  • A blend of cycloaliphatic di-ester oil (Hexamoll DINCH) and cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon resin (Escorez 5300) was formulated at various ratios.
  • The glass transition temperature (T<sub>g</sub>) of the resulting vulcanizates was measured.
  • Curing characteristics, Payne effect, rolling resistance, wear resistance, stress-strain behavior, and wet grip were evaluated.

Main Results

  • A 50/50 blend of Hexamoll DINCH and Escorez 5300 matched the T<sub>g</sub> (-19 °C) of a TDAE-containing reference compound.
  • The blend exhibited similar curing characteristics and cured Payne effect compared to TDAE.
  • The blend showed comparable rolling resistance, slightly reduced wear resistance, improved stress-strain behavior, and enhanced wet grip.

Conclusions

  • Plasticizer blends offer a viable strategy for achieving sustainable tire compounds without compromising critical performance properties.
  • The combination of Hexamoll DINCH and Escorez 5300 presents a promising bio-based alternative to TDAE.
  • This research supports the tire industry's transition towards sustainability through innovative material solutions.

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