SRI, Kyoto University visualise 3D rubber structures

Kobe, Japan – Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) and Kyoto University have visualised the internal rubber structure in three dimensions, making it possible to observe changes in rubber as it fails.

The development marks a step toward developing tires with improved wear resistance, said SRI in a 23 July statement.

The project, led by associate professor Hiroki Ogawa of Kyoto University’s Institute for Chemical Research, enabled researchers to “observe changes in internal structure that occur when rubber is deformed and begins to fail.”

The new method uses the large-scale synchrotron radiation research facility "SPring-8" to conduct detailed analysis of the internal structure of rubber.

According to SRI, the internal structure of tire rubber is composed of more than a dozen materials, including the polymer skeleton, reinforcing agents such as silica and carbon black, and additives and crosslinking agents that improve performance.

SRI has previously used the SPring-8 synchrotron facility to study rubber at a structural level.

However, the earlier method provided only averaged data along the X-ray path, making it difficult to pinpoint “where destruction begins” or “how the internal structure contributes to failure.”

By contrast, the new approach captures variations in structural distribution inside the rubber in 3D.

Using the method, SRI said the team found that deformation causes polymer and silica components to partially align, creating a weak point where failure begins.

The findings will support the development of longer-lasting tires with better abrasion resistance, contributing to both safety and reduced environmental impact.

The tire maker noted rising demand for durable tires amid heavier electric vehicles and growing environmental concerns.

“We aim to offer new experiential value from rubber through our strengths in materials and analytical technology,” it said, referring to the RISE 2035 long-term strategy.