Imerys targets tire and rubber applications

Dusseldorf, Germany – Among the highlights on the Imerys stand at K2022 is ImerFlex HAR T20, a high aspect ratio talc that improves the impermeability of inner liners.

Used in partial replacement of carbon black, T20 is said to confer improved barrier properties within tire compounds.

This, says Imerys, enables tire makers to reduce tire permeability by up to 40% - improving rolling resistance and consequently fuel consumption.

For cables manufacturers, Imersys is highlighting Polarite silane-treated calcined clays grades for enhancing the properties of the medium- to high-voltage cables and extruded products.

Used in the production of medium- to high-voltage EPR and EPDM cables, Polarite is claimed to provide “excellent insulation and dielectric properties, a very smooth surface finish and excellent dimensional control due to low die swell.”

Another Imerys product on show is Hexafil, an ultrafine, ball clay or hard kaolin said to enhance the compression set and abrasion resistance of commodity rubber compounds.

Typical applications include as an additive for shoe soles, rubber floor mats and heavy-duty cables, among many other applications.