Preparation and Characterization of Silica/SolutionStyrene‐Butadiene Rubber Composite UsingAlkenylalkoxysilane

ABSTRACT In this study, silica/solution styrene‐butadiene rubber (SSBR) composites (C‐allyl, C‐vinyl, and C‐octenyl) were prepared using various alkenyltrimethoxysilane [alkenyl(TMS)]‐based coupling agents (alkenyl = allyl‐, vinyl‐, and 7‐octenyl) and their physical and viscoelastic properties were compared to those of composites prepared employing tetrasulfide silane, TESPT, referred to as C‐TESPT. The results revealed that the C‐allyl exhibited superior properties, primarily due to enhanced silica dispersion and increased crosslink density. Bound rubber analysis confirmed that the reduced hydrophobicity of alkenyl(TMS), particularly in the C‐allyl variant, enhanced silica surface modification, facilitating the formation of a more robust network. Notably, the C‐allyl composites demonstrated consistent vulcanization, as evidenced by stable cure rate indices and effective thermal conductivity. Mechanical evaluations revealed that C‐allyl not only exhibited improved tensile strength and wet grip performance but also better rolling resistance, attributable to its optimized filler dispersion. Furthermore, the low tan δ at 60°C suggested potential enhancements in fuel efficiency, particularly relevant to the tire industry. These findings underscored the potential of alkenyl(TMS)‐based coupling agents, especially in C‐allyl configurations, as sustainable and high‐performance alternatives to TESPT in advanced tire manufacturing.