Abstract: A method includes mixing a filler including silica and a bio-based oil including a soy polyol to form a filler mixture, and mixing the filler mixture with an elastomer to form an elastomeric composition. The weight ratio of silica to the soy polyol is 1.5 to 2.5. The elastomer is present in an amount less than 25 weight percent of the elastomeric composition.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a filler composition includes a filler including silica; and a bio-based oil contacting the filler and including at least one soy polyol, wherein an elastomer, if present, is less than 25 weight percent of the total weight of the filler composition. The filler composition does not contain appreciable amount of petroleum oil, which if present, is less than 25 weight percent of the filler composition. The filler composition does not contain appreciable amount of epoxidized oil which, if present, is less than 25 weight percent of the total weight of the filler composition. The soy polyol may include a hydroxyl number of from 10 to 350 KOH/g. The bio-based oil may further include soy oil.