Synthetic Rubber Shows Superior Abrasion Resistance Compared to Natural Rubber
Researchers have developed a new type of synthetic rubber that exhibits 30 to 50 percent less abrasion than natural rubber. This advancement could address durability issues in truck tires.
Fraunhofer Institute researchers have developed a novel synthetic rubber, BISYKA, demonstrating significantly improved abrasion resistance compared to natural rubber. Initial tests indicate that truck tires made from BISYKA experience 30 to 50 percent less wear than those made from natural rubber.
Natural rubber has long been the preferred material for truck tire treads due to its superior abrasion characteristics. However, the security of supply for natural rubber is increasingly threatened, driving the need for robust synthetic alternatives.
The development of BISYKA involved biomimetic approaches, including the detailed analysis of rubber from dandelions. Researchers identified and replicated key molecular components responsible for abrasion resistance, resulting in a synthetic polyisoprene with enhanced properties.
This enhanced durability, coupled with the potential for industrial-scale production using existing facilities, positions BISYKA as a strong candidate for high-performance truck tires. Independent testing has confirmed its potential to replace natural rubber in demanding applications.