CTMA Project #: 140971
Problem: In Phases I and II of this project between U.S. Army TARDEC, PPG, and Akron Rubber Development Lab, research was focused on developing a better understanding of the causes of tire degradation during storage and developing a solution to the problem. Extensive research in oxidation during long-term storage was conducted and a protective coating spray was developed that demonstrated significant benefits. Ongoing is the design of spray coating application equipment and newly coated tires are being evaluated at various extreme temperatures.
Benefit: Understanding the cause of tire degradation and developing a preventative solution have significant benefits in reducing maintenance events to replace unusable tires, reducing the number of accidents and deaths caused by blowouts because of degraded tires, and extending the life of the stored tires, thereby reducing cost.
Solution/Approach: This project will build upon Phase I and II to further develop coatings for in-service vehicle tires to improve tire life and reduce the impact of UV and other environmental factors. Phase III will advance the protection gained from spraying the sidewall of a tire with a degradation-resistant coating. The durability of the coating to a range of environmental and handling conditions will be assessed, as well as a cost-benefit analysis.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Improve safety
- Reduce maintenance events
- Reduce costs
- Improve warfighter readiness
DOD Participation:
- U.S. Army TARDEC
Industry Participation:
- PPG
- Akron Rubber Development Lab
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Maintenance avoidance and reliability
- Improved readiness
Focus Area:
- Coatings/corrosion prevention
