Patent ID: 7790798
Filing Date: 2010-09-07
Classification: B60C,C08J,C08K

Abstract:
1. A method for making a solution masterbatch containing a diene elastomer in an organic solvent and a reinforcing silica filler dispersed therein, comprising the steps of: (a) continuously mixing an unhydophobized precipitated silica having a first average particle size in a first organic solvent to form a silica slurry having a substantially even dispersion of the silica; (b) grinding the silica slurry in a grinding apparatus, while maintaining the dispersion of the silica, to form a ground silica slurry having a reduced second average particle size; (c) mixing the ground silica slurry with a diene elastomer in a second organic solvent; and (d) desolventizing the mixture produced in step (c) to form a solution masterbatch preparation.