Abstract: The present invention relates to a conveyor belt which is comprised of a carry cover layer, a reinforcement layer which is situated below the carry cover layer, and a pulley cover layer which is situated below the reinforcement layer, wherein the carry cover layer is comprised of neodymium polybutadiene rubber.

Abstract: The present invention is based upon the discovery that neodymium polybutadiene rubber can be built onto heavy duty conveyor belts as a carry cover layer to greatly improve the wear resistance of the belt. Such heavy duty conveyor belts are of particular value for utilization in the mining of iron ore, copper ore, coal, and other abrasive materials. These belts accordingly offer a longer service life, reduce mine down-time, reduce costs, and improve overall mine productivity without having an adverse effect on worker health or safety, and without detrimentally impacting the environment. The present invention more specifically discloses a conveyor belt which is comprised of a carry cover layer, a reinforcement layer which is situated below the carry cover layer, and a pulley cover layer which is situated below the reinforcement layer, wherein the carry cover layer is comprised of neodymium polybutadiene rubber.