Ultrasonic Viscoelasticity Evaluation Method for Tribology of Rubber Material

Abstract

It is well-known that there is a close relationship between the friction of the tire and the viscoelasticity of the tread rubber, especially loss tangent tan δ in the high friction frequency band (10²-10⁶Hz). But it has not been verified under the real frequency and temperature conditions. In this respect, the ultrasonic (high frequency) viscoelasticity measuring method using surface reflection wave was investigated recently.
In this report, the relationship between friction coefficient and tan δ, measured by the ultrasonic viscoelasticity measuring method using surface reflection wave, is shown.
Furthermore, the high frequency vibration is found to exist during slip of rubber on a rough glass plate.
The ultrasonic viscoelasticity sensor for a tire is expected to be a tool for the quality lifecycle management and the safety of automotive vehicles.