A unique coupling agent for elastomer nanocomposites with better carbon black dispersion for higher abrasion resistance and lower rolling resistance

Abstract Carbon black is a very important reinforcing agent for rubber, which can significantly improve rubber modulus, strength, and abrasion performance. However, there are defects such as large hysteresis loss, dynamic energy loss, and high heat build‐up by using carbon black to reinforce rubber. In this paper, a new silane coupling agent named M1 was prepared and introduced as the coupling agent of carbon black, and M1 modified carbon black was prepared. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer results demonstrated the successful modification and revealed the interaction mechanism between M1 and carbon black. The results showed that strong interfacial bonding can be generated between M1 and carbon black through physical and chemical interactions, thereby promoting the dispersion of carbon black in the rubber matrix. Then, carbon black/rubber nanocomposites were prepared with different amount of M1. Because M1 could improve the dispersion of carbon black in the rubber matrix, the carbon black/rubber nanocomposites with M1 have lower network and loss factor, lower rolling resistance, and higher abrasion resistance, which is ideal to manufacture green bus and truck tires for energy‐saving, environment‐friendly, and low‐carbon society.