Momentive Performance Materials, a worldwide supplier of silicones and advanced materials, has partnered with Sumitomo Rubber Industries, a prominent manufacturer of tires and other rubber products, in order to develop the ENASAVE PREMIUM tire, which was awarded the AAA rating for rolling resistance under the labeling system of Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association’s (JATMA).
The flagship tire, ENASAVE PREMIUM was released at the Tokyo Motor Show held from December 2 to11, 2011 and is an addition to the ENASAVE fuel-efficient tire series.
ENASAVE PREMIUM utilizes Momentive’s NXT Z 45 silane, which is a coupling agent for tire tread compound based on silica and a superior candidate to enable enhanced physical and dynamic characteristics, including wet traction and rolling resistance. The novel silane can help remove the ethanol that is obtained during the production and use of silica tires.
Momentive’s NXT silane technology can ensure energy-saving, improve production efficiency and enhance automotive safety. Gas mileage is improved, CO2 tailpipe emissions are minimized and wet traction is improved, which enables cars to stop more rapidly and safely. Additionally, energy consumption can be minimized by using lesser amounts of silane and enhanced processing. NXT silane has higher renewable material content when compared to standard silanes.
A Sumitomo Rubber press release reported that NXT Z 45 silane plays a key role in the enhanced performance properties of the ENASAVE PREMIUM tire and Sumitomo Rubber is glad to have partnered with Momentive in order to bring this new product from concept to market.
Source: http://www.momentive.com