Materials
Below you will find some of the rubber, chemical and structural materials used to make tires.
Rubbers
Natural rubber
Most natural rubber comes from para rubber trees. The properties of natural rubber include durability and abrasion resistance.
Synthetic rubber
Synthetic rubber, which is a petroleum-based product, has heat-resisting properties.
Chemicals mixed with rubber
Carbon black
Carbon black increases the strength of rubber.
Silica
The white powder of silicon dioxide delivers better fuel efficiency and wet grip.
Oil
Oil softens rubber.
Antioxidant
Antioxidant inhibits oxidation of rubber.
Sulfur
sulfur gives rubber greater elasticity.
Vulcanization accelerator
Vulcanization accelerator helps build cross-links between rubber and sulfur.
Construction materials
Polyester
Polyester is used as a material of body ply in passenger tires.
Rayon
Rayon is used as a material of body ply in passenger tires.
Steel
Steel is used as a material of beads and steel belts in passenger tires.
