Dow Corning gears up innovation to reduce fuel use for drivers
Dow Corning scientists are stepping up their search for a technology solution that will help improve fuel efficiency for millions of drivers worldwide. ‘Green’ tires are already in widespread use on cars, particularly in Europe, but Dow Corning is now working on a technology solution that will make it possible for these tires to also be used on trucks and road tankers.
“In the year 2007 itself, there were around 20 million trucks] worldwide, so this is potentially a very big opportunity for us” said Dow Corning’s Thierry Materne, global industry director for coating, reinforced plastics & tire. “Dow Corning developed processes and technology that contributed to make it possible for millions of car drivers to get the benefits of ‘green’ tires. Now we want to help truck drivers get the same advantages.”
Dow Corning scientists have joined forces with counterparts at Rhodia Corporation to work on this challenge. The two companies announced late 2008, an agreement where they will collaborate for the development and commercialization of new silica/ silane products to support the tire industry’s drive for energy efficient, safer motoring. Their first activity will be to develop a way of introducing silica into natural rubber, covering applications such as truck and winter tires.
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