Abstract: The invention provides rubber compositions comprising: a diene rubber component; and a filler system, wherein the filler system comprises: a first silica which is surface-functionalised by the introduction of one of more functional groups and has a BET specific surface area of from 250 to 310 m2/g and a CTAB specific surface area of from 230 to 285 m2/g; and a second silica which is not surface-functionalised and has a BET specific surface area of from 60 to 120 m2/g and a CTAB specific surface area of from 55 to 105 m2/g. The rubber compositions are particularly suitable for use in the production of tire components, in particular tire treads.

Abstract: A method of drying a water-based rubber mix for producing tyres, wherein the water-based rubber mix is treated with infrared radiation for a time period of over 60 seconds and of 100 seconds or less. The infrared radiation is produced by a filament at a temperature of 500 to 850° C., and positioned at a distance of 5 to 10 cm from the water-based rubber mix for drying.

Abstract: A method of applying a water-base adhesive mix for producing tires, the method including a step of applying a layer of adhesive mix to a work surface; and a step of drying the layer, and which includes microwave heating.

Abstract: A method and system (1) for producing a tyre (2), whereby a lateral surface (10) of the casing (6) is buffed; an inner surface (19) of a tread strip (13) is buffed; a green-rubber cushion (12) and the tread strip (13) are wound about the lateral surface (10) of the casing (6) to assemble the tyre (2); and the tyre (2) is cured. Buffing of the lateral surface (10) of the casing (6) and/or the inner surface (19) of the tread strip (13) includes: directing a laser beam (B) onto the lateral surface (10) of the casing (6) and/or the inner surface (19) of the tread strip (13) to sublimate part of the existing rubber; and producing a relative movement between the laser beam (B) and the lateral surface (10) of the casing (6) and/or the inner surface (19) of the tread strip (13), so the laser beam (B) sweeps over the surface (10; 19).

Abstract: A method of applying a water-base adhesive mix for producing tyres, the method including a step of applying a layer of adhesive mix to a work surface; and a step of drying the layer, and which includes microwave heating.