Soybeans Used In Construction Of New Tires

Soybeans Used In Construction Of New Tires

Like the peanut, hundreds of uses have been found for the soybean. They make a great appetizer before sushi. They can be made into a meat replacement. Now they can be used to reinforce tires.

Since 2017 Goodyear has been experimenting with refinement techniques to create a tread compound for their tires. Through trial and error they have found a balance in the mixture that allows for more pliability in tires in all weather conditions, including extremes of freezing cold and severe heat. 

With the addition of the compound, tires resist cracking under these conditions, which are the leading cause of tire wear. While it's not known exactly how much longer their new tires will last, Goodyear remains hopeful that eventually they will perfect the formula to nearly double the life of conventional tires. Not only do the new tires become pliable and durable, they also have more predictable and efficient tread as well, especially under wet and icy conditions. 

While this out of the box thinking may seem unconventional, Goodyear has been experimenting with additive compounds to expand the functionality of their products for years. Some of the others used have been Kevlar, carbon fiber, and volcanic sand. For more information on upcoming tire technologies, Goodyear would be the company to watch!

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Written By: Todd Hendrickson
Source: Goodyear