WO2021205108A1

WO2021205108A1 - Rubber composition comprising low melting point polyethylene

Info

Publication number: WO2021205108A1
Application number: PCT/FR2021/050596
Authority: WO
Inventors: Romain LIBERT; Nicolas WAECKERLE
Original assignee: Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin
Priority date: 2020-04-07
Filing date: 2021-04-06
Publication date: 2021-10-14
Also published as: FR3108910A1; BR112022016180A2; FR3108910B1; CN115427236A; CA3167814A1; AU2021251445A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer with between 10 and 60 phr of carbon black and between 5 and 30 phr of silica, a polyethylene having a melting point between 120°C and 160°C and a cross-linking system in which the carbon black constitutes between 50% and 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica. The invention also relates to a method for preparing the rubber composition and a rubber article comprising the composition according to the invention.

Description

TITLE: RUBBER COMPOSITION INCLUDING POEYETHYEENE AT LOW MELTING TEMPERATURE

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to rubber compositions exhibiting a good performance compromise between resistance to mechanical attack and hysteresis. It is particularly interested in rubber articles such as pneumatic tires, non-pneumatic tires, caterpillars, conveyor belts or any other rubber article for which the aforementioned performance compromise would be interesting.

In particular, the rubber compositions of the invention are of great interest when used in tire treads for civil engineering vehicles. Indeed, these tires must have very different technical characteristics from the tires intended for vehicles running exclusively on the road (that is to say a bituminous ground), because the nature of the off-road soils on which they mainly operate is very. different, and in particular much more aggressive, by its stony nature. Furthermore, unlike tires for passenger vehicles for example, the tires for large civil engineering machines must be able to withstand a load which can be extremely heavy. Therefore, the known solutions for tires rolling on bituminous ground are not directly applicable to off-road tires such as tires for civil engineering vehicles.

During travel, a tread is subjected to mechanical stresses and attacks resulting from direct contact with the ground. In the case of a tire mounted on a vehicle carrying heavy loads, the mechanical stresses and the attacks undergone by the tire are amplified under the effect of the weight it supports. The tires for mining vehicles in particular are subjected to strong stresses, both at the local level: rolling on the macro-indenters represented by the pebbles which constitute the tracks (crushed rock), and at the global level: passage of significant torque because the slopes of the tracks to enter or leave the "pits", or open-pit mines, are of the order 10%, and heavy stress on the tires during vehicle U-turns for loading and unloading maneuvers.

This has the consequence that the initiators of crack which are created in the tread of the tire under the effect of these stresses and these attacks, tend to propagate more on the surface or inside the tread, can cause localized or generalized tearing of the tread. These stresses can therefore lead to damage to the tread and therefore reduce the life of the tread, and therefore of the tire. A tire rolling on stony ground is very exposed to attacks, and therefore to the initiation of cracks and cuts. The very aggressive nature of stony ground not only exacerbates this type of aggression on the tread, but also its consequences on the tread.

This is particularly true for the tires fitted to civil engineering vehicles which generally operate in mines or quarries. This is also true for the tires which are fitted to agricultural vehicles due to the stony soil of the arable land. The tires fitted to heavy-duty construction vehicles which circulate as much on stony ground as on bituminous soils, are also subject to the same attacks. Due to the two aggravating factors of the weight carried by the tire and the aggressive nature of the rolling ground, the resistance to initiation and / or crack propagation of a tire tread for a vehicle construction equipment, an agricultural vehicle or a heavy construction vehicle is crucial in minimizing the impact of attacks on the tread.

It is therefore important to have a tire available for vehicles, in particular those intended for driving on stony ground and carrying heavy loads, the tread of which has a resistance to the initiation and / or to the propagation of cracks strong enough to minimize the effect of a crack initiation on the life of the tread. To solve this problem, it is known to those skilled in the art, that for example, the natural rubber in the treads makes it possible to obtain properties of resistance to the initiation and / or to the propagation of high cracks. . Moreover, it remains advantageous that the solutions proposed for solving this problem do not penalize the other properties of the rubber composition, in particular the hysteresis reflecting the heat dissipation capacity of the composition. In fact, the use of an excessively hysteretic composition in a tire can manifest itself by an increase in the internal temperature of the tire, which can lead to a reduction in the endurance (in English “durability”) of the tire.

In view of the foregoing, there is a permanent objective of providing rubber compositions which exhibit an improved compromise between resistance to attack and hysteresis.

This performance compromise is also interesting for rubber tracks intended to equip construction vehicles or agricultural vehicles for the same reasons as explained above. It is also interesting for conveyor belts (or belt conveyor) which can receive large quantities of earth, ore, pebbles, rocks and which can dissipate a great deal of energy via the internal dissipation of the material constituting the belt when punching. the tape between its load and the support driving it.

Solutions have been found to improve this compromise. For example, application WO 2016/202970 A1 which proposes to use a specific composition whose elastomeric matrix comprises a diene elastomer chosen from the group consisting of polybutadienes, butadiene copolymers and their mixtures, and a styrenic thermoplastic elastomer comprising at least minus one rigid styrenic segment and at least one flexible diene segment comprising at least 20% by mass of conjugated diene units.

However, manufacturers are always looking for solutions to further improve the performance compromise between resistance to attack and hysteresis, preferably whatever the nature of the elastomeric matrix. Continuing its research, the Applicant has unexpectedly discovered that the use of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C in the presence of a specific cut of filler in a rubber composition makes it possible to improve the compromise of aforementioned performance.

Thus, the subject of the invention is a rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer, from 10 to 60 phr of carbon black, from 5 to 30 phr of silica, a polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, and a crosslinking system, in which the carbon black represents from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica.

It also relates to a rubber article comprising a rubber composition according to the invention, as well as a pneumatic or non-pneumatic tire whose tread comprises a rubber composition according to the invention.

I- DEFINITIONS

By the expression “composition based on” is meant a composition comprising the mixture and / or the in situ reaction product of the various constituents used, some of these constituents being able to react and / or being intended to react with one another, less partially, during the various phases of manufacture of the composition; the composition may thus be in the fully or partially crosslinked state or in the non-crosslinked state.

By the expression "part by weight per hundred parts by weight of elastomer" (or phr), it is meant within the meaning of the present invention, the part, by mass per hundred parts by mass of elastomer.

In the present document, unless expressly indicated otherwise, all the percentages (%) indicated are percentages (%) by mass.

On the other hand, any interval of values designated by the expression "between a and b" represents the domain of values going from more than a to less than b (that is to say limits a and b excluded) while any range of values designated by the expression "from a to b" means the range of values going from a to b (that is to say including the strict limits a and b). In the present document, when an interval of values is designated by the expression “from a to b”, the interval represented by the expression “between a and b” is also and preferably designated.

When reference is made to a “majority” compound, it is understood, within the meaning of the present invention, that this compound is the majority among the compounds of the same type in the composition, that is to say that it is the one which represents the greatest amount by mass among compounds of the same type. Thus, for example, a major elastomer is the elastomer representing the greatest mass relative to the total mass of the elastomers in the composition. Likewise, a so-called majority filler is that representing the greatest mass among the fillers of the composition. By way of example, in a system comprising a single elastomer, the latter is in the majority within the meaning of the present invention; and in a system comprising two elastomers, the majority elastomer represents more than half of the mass of the elastomers. On the contrary, a "minority" compound is a compound which does not represent the largest mass fraction among compounds of the same type. Preferably, the term “majority” is understood to mean present at more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and more preferably the “majority” compound represents 100%.

The compounds comprising carbon mentioned in the description can be of fossil origin or biobased. In the latter case, they may be, partially or totally, derived from biomass or obtained from renewable raw materials derived from biomass. This concerns in particular polymers, plasticizers, fillers, etc.

All the “Tg” glass transition temperature values described herein are measured in a known manner by DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) according to the ASTM D3418 (1999) standard.

II- DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION II-A Composition II-A-1 Elastomeric matrix

The composition according to the invention may contain a single diene elastomer or a mixture of several diene elastomers.

By elastomer (or indistinctly rubber) "diene", whether natural or synthetic, should be understood in a known manner an elastomer consisting at least in part (ie, a homopolymer or a copolymer) of diene monomer units (monomers carrying two carbon-carbon double bonds, conjugated or not).

These diene elastomers can be classified into two categories: "essentially unsaturated" or "essentially saturated". In general, the term “essentially unsaturated” is understood to mean a diene elastomer derived at least in part from conjugated diene monomers, having a level of units or units of diene origin (conjugated dienes) which is greater than 15% (% by moles); it is thus that diene elastomers such as butyl rubbers or copolymers of dienes and alpha-olefins of the EPDM type do not fall within the preceding definition and can in particular be qualified as "essentially saturated" diene elastomers (content of units of weak or very weak diene origin, always less than 15%). Advantageously, the diene elastomer is a substantially unsaturated diene elastomer.

The term “diene elastomer capable of being used in the context of the present invention” is particularly understood to mean: a) any homopolymer of a diene monomer, conjugated or not, having from 4 to 18 carbon atoms, b) any copolymer of a diene , conjugated or not, having 4 to 18 carbon atoms and at least one other monomer.

The other monomer can be ethylene, an olefin or a diene, conjugated or not.

Suitable conjugated dienes are conjugated dienes having from 4 to 12 carbon atoms, in particular 1,3-dienes, such as in particular 1,3-butadiene and isoprene. Suitable olefins are vinyl aromatic compounds having from 8 to 20 carbon atoms and aliphatic α-monoolefins having from 3 to 12 carbon atoms.

Suitable vinyl aromatic compounds are, for example, styrene, ortho-, meta-, para-methylstyrene, the commercial mixture “vinyl-toluene” and para-tert-butylstyrene.

Suitable aliphatic α-monoolefins are in particular acyclic aliphatic α-monoolefins having from 3 to 18 carbon atoms.

Preferably, the diene elastomer is chosen from the group consisting of polybutadienes (BR), synthetic polyisoprenes (IR), natural rubber (NR), butadiene copolymers, isoprene copolymers and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the diene elastomer is chosen from the group consisting of synthetic polyisoprenes, natural rubber and mixtures thereof.

The butadiene copolymers are preferably chosen from the group consisting of butadiene-styrene (SBR) copolymers. It will be noted that the SBR can be prepared in emulsion (ESBR) or in solution (SSBR). Whether it's ESBR or SSBR. Among the copolymers based on styrene and on butadiene, in particular SBR, there may be mentioned in particular those having a styrene content of between 5% and 60% by weight and more particularly between 20% and 50%, a content (molar%) in -1,2 bonds of the butadiene part of between 4% and 75%, a content (mol%) of trans-1,4 bonds of between 10% and 80%. Advantageously, the butadiene-styrene copolymer is an SBR prepared in solution and has a styrene content of between 5% and 60%, preferably from 6% to 30%, by weight relative to the total weight of the copolymer, and a content ( mol%) in -1.2 bonds of the butadiene part of between 4% and 75%, preferably between 15% and 30%.

Among the isoprene copolymers, mention will be made in particular of isobutene-isoprene (butyl rubber - IIR), isoprene-styrene (SIR), isoprene-butadiene (BIR) or isoprene-butadiene-styrene copolymers. (SBIR). In a particularly advantageous manner, the diene elastomer comprises predominantly, preferably exclusively, at least one polyisoprene, preferably at least one epoxidized polyisoprene.

In the present document, the term "polyisoprene" is understood to mean any polyisoprene, whether or not it is epoxidized. Advantageously, the polyisoprene is a non-epoxidized polyisoprene chosen from the group consisting of natural rubber, a synthetic polyisoprene and one of their mixtures. Advantageously, the non-epoxidized polyisoprene has a molar ratio of 1,4-cis bond of at least 90%.

The term "epoxidized polyisoprene" means a polyisoprene which has undergone an epoxidation step. The epoxidized polyisoprene can be an epoxidized natural rubber, an epoxidized synthetic polyisoprene having a molar ratio of 1,4-cis bond of at least 90% before epoxidation, or a mixture thereof.

The epoxidized polyisoprene used in the context of the present invention is an elastomer and is not to be confused with an epoxidized polyisoprene of low molar mass generally used as a plasticizer which is not an elastomer given its low molar mass. Epoxidized polyisoprene as an elastomer generally has a high raw Mooney viscosity. As an indication, the Mooney viscosities (ML 1 + 4) at 100 ° C. of the epoxidized polyisoprenes which can be used in the context of the present invention are preferably from 30 to 150, more preferably from 40 to 150, even more preferably from 50 to 140.

Mooney viscosity is measured using an oscillating consistometer as described in ASTM D1646 (1999). The measurement is carried out according to the following principle: the sample analyzed in the raw state (ie, before firing) is molded (shaped) in a cylindrical chamber heated to a given temperature (for example 100 ° C.). After 1 minute of preheating, the rotor turns within the specimen at 2 revolutions / minute and the torque useful to maintain this movement is measured after 4 minutes of rotation. The Mooney viscosity (ML 1 + 4) is expressed in "Mooney unit" (MU, with 1 MU = 0.83 Newton.meter). Epoxidized polyisoprene, whether epoxidized natural rubber or epoxidized synthetic polyisoprene, can be obtained in a known manner by epoxidation of polyisoprene, for example by processes based on chlorohydrin or bromohydrin or processes based on peroxides. hydrogen, alkyl hydroperoxides or peracids (such as peracetic acid or performic acid). Epoxidized polyisoprenes are commercially available. The molar rate of epoxidation, which is a supplier data, corresponds to the ratio of the number of moles of epoxidized isoprene unit to the number of moles of isoprene unit in the polyisoprene before epoxidation. The term “epoxidation rate” expressed in molar percentage (mol%) is understood to mean the number of moles of cis-1,4-epoxy-polyisoprene units present in the rubber polymer per 100 moles of total monomer units in this same polymer. The rate of epoxidation can be measured in particular by 1 H NMR analysis.

As examples of commercially available epoxidized polyisoprenes, mention may be made of Epoxyprene 25 and Epoxyprene 50 from the company Guthrie or Ekoprena 25 and Ekoprena 50 from the company Felda.

According to the present invention, the expression "at least one epoxidized polyisoprene" should be understood as one or more epoxidized polyisoprenes which can be differentiated either by their microstructure, their macrostructure or their rate of epoxidation. In the case where the polyisoprene includes more than one epoxidized polyisoprene, the reference to the amount of epoxidized polyisoprene of the polyisoprene applies to the total mass of the epoxidized polyisoprene of the polyisoprene. For example, the characteristic according to which the epoxidized polyisoprene is present in the rubber composition at a level greater than 50 phr means that in the case of a mixture of epoxidized polyisoprenes, the total mass of epoxidized polyisoprenes is greater than 50 phr.

In the case where the epoxidized polyisoprene is a mixture of epoxidized polyisoprenes which can be differentiated from each other by their molar rate of epoxidation, the reference to a molar rate of epoxidation, whether it is preferential or not, applies. to each of the epoxidized polyisoprenes in the mixture. According to the invention, the at least one epoxidized polyisoprene advantageously exhibits a molar rate of epoxidation ranging from 5% to 85%, preferably from 10% to less than 80%, preferably from 15% to 75%. Advantageously, the molar rate of epoxidation of the at least one epoxidized polyisoprene can be within a range ranging from 40% to 80%, preferably from 45% to 75%. This rate of epoxidation is particularly advantageous for improving the reinforcement of the rubber composition. Alternatively, the molar rate of epoxidation of the at least one epoxidized polyisoprene can be within a range ranging from 10% to less than 49%, preferably from 15% to less than 40%.

The content of diene elastomer, preferably polyisoprene, preferably epoxidized polyisoprene, in the composition according to the invention is advantageously within a range ranging from 50 to 100 phr, preferably from 75 to 100 phr, more preferably still it is 100 pce.

II-A-2 Charges

According to the invention, the composition is based on a filler comprising from 10 to 60 phr of carbon black and from 5 to 30 phr of silica, the carbon black representing from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight carbon black and silica.

The blacks that can be used in the context of the present invention can be any black conventionally used in pneumatic or non-pneumatic tires or their treads (so-called black tire grade). Among the latter, there will be mentioned more particularly the reinforcing carbon blacks of the 100, 200, 300 series, or the blacks of the 500, 600 or 700 series (ASTM grades), such as for example the blacks NI 15, NI 34, N234, N326. , N330, N339, N347, N375, N550, N683, N772). These carbon blacks can be used in the isolated state, as available commercially, or in any other form, for example as a support for some of the rubber additives used. The carbon blacks could, for example, already be incorporated into the diene elastomer, in particular isoprene in the form of a masterbatch (see for example applications WO 97/36724 or WO 99/16600). Mixtures of several carbon blacks can also be used in prescribed rates. As examples of organic fillers other than carbon blacks, mention may be made of organic fillers of functionalized polyvinyl as described in applications WO 2006/069792, WO 2006/069793, WO 2008/003434 and WO 2008/003435.

Advantageously, the BET specific surface area of the carbon black is at least 90 m ² / g, preferably between 100 and 150 m ² / g. The BET specific surface area of carbon blacks is measured according to standard ASTM D6556-10 [multipoint method (at least 5 points)

- gas: nitrogen - relative pressure range R / R0: 0.1 to 0.3]

The carbon black advantageously has a COAN oil absorption index greater than or equal to 90 mL / 100 g. COAN, or Compressed Oil Absorption Number, of carbon blacks, is measured according to ASTM D3493-16.

Advantageously, the level of carbon black (whether there is one or more) in the composition according to the invention is within a range ranging from 15 to 55 phr, preferably from 30 to 50 phr.

The silicas which can be used in the context of the present invention can be any silica known to a person skilled in the art, in particular any precipitated or pyrogenic silica having a BET surface as well as a CTAB specific surface both less than 450 m ² / g, of preferably from 30 to 400 m ² / g. It can also be a mixture of several silicas, as long as they are used in the prescribed rates.

The BET specific surface area of silica is determined by gas adsorption using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method described in "The Journal of the American Chemical Society" (Vol. 60, page 309, February 1938), and more precisely according to a method adapted from standard NE ISO 5794-1, annex E of June 2010 [multipoint volumetric method (5 points) - gas: nitrogen - vacuum degassing: one hour at 160 ° C

- relative pressure range p / in: 0.05 to 0.17] The CT AB specific surface area values of silica were determined according to standard NF ISO 5794-1, appendix G of June 2010. The process is based on the adsorption of CTAB (N-hexadecyl-N, N, N bromide -trimethylammonium) on the “external” surface of the reinforcing filler.

The silicas which can be used in the context of the present invention advantageously exhibit a BET specific surface area of less than 250 m ² / g and / or a CTAB specific surface area of less than 220 m ² / g, preferably a BET specific surface area within a range ranging from 125 to 200 m ² / g and / or a CTAB specific surface area within a range from 140 to 170 m ² / g.

As silicas which can be used in the context of the present invention, mention will be made, for example, of the highly dispersible precipitated silicas (called “HDS”) “Ultrasil 7000” and “Ultrasil 7005” from the company Evonik, the silicas “Zeosil 1165MP, 1135MP and 1115MP "from the company Rhodia, the silica" Hi-Sil EZ150G "from the company PPG, the silicas" Zeopol 8715, 8745 and 8755 "from the company Huber, silicas with a high specific surface as described in application WO 03 / 016387.

Advantageously, the level of silica (whether there is one or more) in the composition according to the invention is within a range ranging from 5 to 25 phr, preferably from 6 to 20 phr.

To couple the reinforcing silica to the diene elastomer, it is possible to use, in a well-known manner, an at least bifunctional coupling agent (or binding agent) intended to ensure a sufficient connection, of a chemical and / or physical nature, between the silica ( surface of its particles) and the diene elastomer (hereinafter simply referred to as “coupling agent”). In particular, at least bifunctional organosilanes or polyorganosiloxanes are used. By “bifunctional” is meant a compound having a first functional group capable of interacting with the inorganic filler and a second functional group capable of interacting with the diene elastomer. For example, such a bifunctional compound can comprise a first functional group comprising a silicon atom, the said first functional group being suitable interacting with the hydroxyl groups of an inorganic filler and a second functional group comprising a sulfur atom, said second functional group being able to interact with the diene elastomer.

Those skilled in the art can find examples of a coupling agent in the following documents: WO 02/083782, WO 02/30939, WO 02/31041, WO 2007/061550,

WO 2006/125532, WO 2006/125533, WO 2006/125534, US 6,849,754, WO 99/09036, WO 2006/023815, WO 2007/098080, WO 2010/072685 and WO 2008/055986.

However, it is advantageous in the context of the present invention not to use a coupling agent. Thus, preferably, the content of coupling agent, in the composition according to the invention, is advantageously less than 6% by weight relative to the weight of silica, preferably less than 2%, preferably less than 1% by weight per relative to the weight of silica. More preferably, the composition according to the invention does not include a coupling agent.

Moreover, when the composition according to the invention comprises silica, the composition advantageously comprises a silica covering agent. Among the silica covering agents, mention may be made, for example, of hydroxysilanes or hydrolyzable silanes such as hydroxysilanes (see for example WO 2009/062733), alkylalkoxy silanes, in particular alkyltriethoxysilanes such as, for example, 1 - octyl-tri -ethoxysilane, polyols (eg diols or triols), polyethers (eg polyethylene glycols), primary, secondary or tertiary amines (eg trialkanol amines), an optionally substituted guanidine, in particular diphenylguanidine, hydroxylated or hydrolyzable polyorganosiloxanes (for example a, w -dihydroxy-poly-organosilanes (in particular a, w-dihydroxy-polydimethylsiloxanes) (see for example EP 0 784 072), fatty acids such as for example stearic acid When a silica covering agent is used, it is used at a level of between 0 and 5 phr. Preferably, the silica covering agent is a polyethylene glycol. covering the silica, preferably polyethylene glycol, in the composition according to the invention is advantageously included in a range ranging from 1 to 6 phr, preferably from 1.5 to 4 phr.

Advantageously, the total level of carbon black and silica in the composition according to the invention is within a range ranging from 15 to 90 phr, preferably from 20 to 70 phr.

Advantageously, the carbon black represents from 60% to 90% by weight, preferably from 65% to 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica.

The composition according to the invention also has the essential characteristic of comprising a polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, hereinafter referred to as "polyethylene" for the sake of drafting simplicity. The melting temperature is measured in a well-known manner by DSC according to the standard ASTM D3418 (2015).

The term “polyethylene” is understood to mean a polymer predominantly comprising ethylene units. Preferably, the polyethylene (that is to say the polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C) comprises more than 50% by mole, preferably more than 75% by mole, more preferably more than 90 mol% of ethylene unit.

Advantageously, the polyethylene does not comprise a polypropylene unit or comprises less than 10% thereof by weight relative to the total weight of the polyethylene. Preferably, the polyethylene does not include a polypropylene unit.

Advantageously, the polyethylene is chosen from the group consisting of high density polyethylenes, low density polyethylenes, linear low density polyethylenes, medium density polyethylenes, very high molecular weight polyethylenes, very low density polyethylenes and mixtures of these polyethylenes. Preferably, the polyethylene has a density within a range ranging from 910 to 970 kg / m ³ , more preferably in a range ranging from 940 to 965 kg / m ³ .

Preferably, the polyethylene has a melt index at 190 ° C. at 2.16 kg within a range ranging from 0.1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably within a range ranging from 1 to 15 g / 10 min. The melt index can be measured according to ISO 1133.

The polyethylene can be a functionalized polyethylene comprising at least one functional group comprising at least one heteroatom chosen from the group consisting of Si, N, O, S and Cl.

Advantageously, when the polyethylene is functionalized, it is a polyethylene functionalized by a function chosen from the group consisting of maleic anhydride, epoxy, amines and acid functions, preferably by a maleic anhydride function.

The level of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C. and 160 ° C. may be within a range ranging from 3 to 40 phr, preferably from 5 to 30 phr.

Advantageously, the total level of carbon black, silica and polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C is within a range ranging from 20 to 90 phr, preferably from 30 to 80 phr.

Also advantageously, the volume fraction of the set of carbon black, silica and polyethylene is within a range ranging from 10% to 40%, preferably from 15% to 35%.

Advantageously, the total level of thermoplastic polymer, that is to say the sum of the thermoplastic polymers including polyethylene, is within a range ranging from 3 to 40 phr, preferably from 5 to 30 phr. Particularly advantageously, the The composition does not include any thermoplastic polymer other than polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C.

The polyethylene which can be used can be obtained by the conventional known processes, such as in particular polymerization in the presence of metallocene catalysts. At the end of the polymerization, the polyethylene is granulated without any crosslinking reaction. Non-functionalized and non-crosslinked polyethylenes are commercially available from suppliers such as Dow Global Technologies, EXXONMOBIL, Silon, ENI.

By way of example of polyethylene which can be used commercially, mention may be made of polyethylene “ERACLENE MP90U” from the company ENI or “B5206” from the company SABIC, and by way of example of functionalized polyethylene, mention may be made of “Exxelor”. ™ PE 1040 ”from ExxonMobil or“ OREVAC 18302 ”from ARKEMA.

II-A-3 Crosslinking system

The crosslinking system can be any type of system known to those skilled in the art in the field of rubber compositions for tires. It can in particular be based on sulfur, and / or peroxide and / or bismaleimides.

Preferably, the crosslinking system is sulfur-based, this is called a vulcanization system. The sulfur can be provided in any form, in particular in the form of molecular sulfur and / or of sulfur donor. At least one vulcanization accelerator is also preferably present, and, optionally, also preferentially, one can use various known vulcanization activators such as zinc oxide, stearic acid or equivalent compound such as salts of stearic acid and salts. transition metals, guanide derivatives (in particular diphenylguanidine), or else known vulcanization retarders.

Sulfur is used at a preferential rate of between 0.5 and 12 phr, in particular between 1 and 10 phr. The vulcanization accelerator is used at a preferential rate of between 0.5 and 10 phr, more preferably between 0.5 and 5.0 phr. Can be used as accelerator any compound capable of acting as vulcanization accelerator of diene elastomers in the presence of sulfur, in particular accelerators of the thiazole type as well as their derivatives, accelerators of the sulfenamides, thiurams, dithiocarbamates, dithiophosphates, thioureas and xanthates types. By way of examples of such accelerators, mention may in particular be made of the following compounds: 2-mercaptobenzothiazyl disulfide (abbreviated "MBTS"), N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazyl sulfenamide ("CBS"), N, N-dicyclohexyl- 2-Benzothiazyl sulfenamide ("DCBS"), N-ter-butyl-2-benzothiazyl sulfenamide ("TBBS"), N-ter-butyl-2-benzothiazyl sulfenimide ("TBSI"), tetrabenzylthiuram disulfide ("TBZTD") , zinc dibenzyldithiocarbamate ("ZBEC") and mixtures of these compounds.

II-A-4 Possible additives

The rubber compositions may optionally also include all or part of the usual additives usually used in elastomer compositions for tires, such as, for example, plasticizers (such as plasticizing oils and / or plasticizing resins), pigments, conditioning agents. protection such as anti-ozone waxes, chemical anti-ozonants, anti-oxidants, anti-fatigue agents, reinforcing resins (such as described for example in application WO 02/10269). It may further be preferable that the composition according to the invention does not include certain ingredients which could compromise the performance of the composition. Advantageously, the composition according to the invention does not include a foaming agent (or "foaming agent" in English) which could penalize the endurance of the composition, degrade the properties of resistance to attack of the composition, etc. II-B Preparation process

A subject of the present invention is also a process for preparing a composition for the manufacture of the rubber composition according to the invention, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) bringing into contact and mixing, concomitantly or successively, in one or more installments, at least one diene elastomer, a filler comprising carbon black and silica, the carbon black representing from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and of silica, and a polyethylene having a melting temperature between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, thermomechanically mixing everything until a maximum temperature Tl greater than or equal to the melting point of the polyethylene is reached, b) reduce the temperature of the mixture obtained at step (a) up to a maximum temperature T2 below the melting point of the polyethylene, then incorporate a crosslinking system into the mixture and mix everything together.

The nature and the levels of diene elastomer of carbon black, of silica, of any coupling agent, of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, of the crosslinking system are as defined in point II-A above in their general embodiments, and advantageously in their preferred embodiments.

The process according to the invention can be carried out using two successive preparation phases according to a general procedure well known to those skilled in the art: step (a) then constitutes a first thermo-mechanical working or mixing phase (sometimes referred to as non-productive phase) at high temperature, up to a maximum temperature between 130 ° C and 190 ° C, preferably between 140 ° C and 180 ° C, followed by a second mechanical work phase (sometimes qualified as “productive” phase) (step (b) of the process according to the invention) at a lower temperature, typically less than 110 ° C, for example between 60 ° C and 100 ° C, finishing phase during which is incorporated the crosslinking system. Such phases have been described for example in applications EP 0 501 227 A, EP 0 735 088 A, EP 0 810258 A, WO 2000/05300 or WO 2000/05301.

The first phase (non-productive) can preferably be carried out in several thermomechanical steps. During a first step, at least one diene elastomer, at least one polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, black of carbon, silica, at a temperature between 20 ° C and 100 ° C and, preferably, between 25 ° C and 100 ° C. After a few minutes, preferably from 0.5 to 2 min and a rise in temperature to 90 ° C to 100 ° C, the other ingredients (i.e. ie, those which remain if all have not been put at the start) can be added all at once or in parts, with the exception of the crosslinking system during mixing ranging from 20 seconds to a few minutes. The total mixing time, in this non-productive phase, is preferably between 2 and 10 minutes at a temperature less than or equal to 180 ° C, and preferably less than or equal to 170 ° C.

After cooling the mixture thus obtained, the crosslinking system, preferably the vulcanization system, is then incorporated at low temperature (typically less than 100 ° C.), generally in an external mixer such as a roller mixer; the whole is then mixed (productive phase) for a few minutes, for example between 5 and 15 min.

The final composition thus obtained is then calendered, for example in the form of a sheet or of a plate, in particular for a characterization in the laboratory, or else extruded, to form for example a rubber profile used for the manufacture of semi- finished in order to obtain products such as a tire tread. These products can then be used for the manufacture of tires, according to techniques known to those skilled in the art. The crosslinking (or curing) is carried out in a known manner at a temperature generally between 100 ° C and 200 ° C, for example between 130 ° C and 200 ° C, under pressure, for a sufficient time which may vary for example between 5 and 90 min depending in particular on the baking temperature, on the crosslinking system adopted, on the crosslinking kinetics of the composition considered. Preferably, the crosslinking is carried out at a temperature between 110 ° C and 160 ° C, preferably between 120 ° C and 150 ° C.

Polyethylene (whose melting point is between 120 ° C and 160 ° C) can be introduced in the solid state, as sold commercially, or in the liquid state. When the polyethylene is introduced in liquid form, it is then necessary to carry out an additional step of heating the polyethylene to a temperature above its temperature. melting temperature, before being brought into contact with the other constituents of step (a). However, it is preferable to introduce the polyethylene in the solid state.

According to the invention, the maximum temperature Tl is preferably at least 1 ° C, preferably 2 ° C, preferably 3 ° C, preferably 4 ° C, preferably 5 ° C above the temperature of the polyethylene. Preferably, the maximum temperature T1 is 5 to 20 ° C. higher than the temperature of the polyethylene.

According to the invention, the maximum temperature T2 is preferably less than 120 ° C, preferably less than 100 ° C, more preferably less than 90 ° C. Preferably, the maximum temperature T2 is within a range from 20 to 90 ° C.

II-C Composition likely to be obtained by the process according to the invention and pneumatic

A subject of the present invention is also a rubber composition capable of being obtained by a process according to the invention.

II-D Rubber article

A subject of the present invention is also a rubber article comprising a composition according to the invention or a composition obtainable by the process according to the invention.

In view of the improved performance compromise within the scope of the present invention, the rubber article is advantageously chosen from the group consisting of pneumatic tires, non-pneumatic tires, tracks and conveyor belts.

More particularly, a subject of the invention is also a pneumatic or non-pneumatic tire provided with a tread comprising a composition according to the invention or a composition capable of being obtained by the process according to the invention. The tread has a tread surface provided with a pattern formed by a plurality of grooves delimiting elements in relief (blocks, ribs) so as to generate material ridges as well as hollows. These grooves represent a volume of hollows which, in relation to the total volume of the tread (including both the volume of elements in relief and that of all the grooves) is expressed by a percentage designated herein by "rate. of volume hollow ". A volume void ratio of zero indicates a tread without grooves or valleys.

The present invention is particularly well suited to tire treads intended to equip civil engineering, agricultural and heavy goods vehicles, more particularly civil engineering vehicles whose tires are subjected to very specific stresses, in particular soils. stony on which they roll. Thus, advantageously, the pneumatic or non-pneumatic tire provided with a tread comprising a composition according to the invention or with a composition capable of being obtained by the method according to the invention is a tire for a civil engineering vehicle, agricultural or heavy goods vehicles, preferably civil engineering. These tires are provided with treads which have, compared with the thicknesses of the treads of tires for light vehicles, in particular for passenger vehicles or vans, large thicknesses of rubber material. Typically the wearing part of the tread of a tire for heavy goods vehicles has a thickness of at least 15 mm, that of a civil engineering vehicle at least 30 mm, or even up to 120 mm. Thus, the tread of the tire according to the invention advantageously has one or more grooves, the average depth of which ranges from 15 to 120 mm, preferably 65 to 120 mm.

The pneumatic tires according to the invention can have a diameter ranging from 20 to 63 inches, preferably from 35 to 63 inches.

Furthermore, the average volume void rate over the whole of the tread of the tire according to the invention may be within a range ranging from 5 to 40%, preferably from 5 to 25%. A subject of the invention is also a rubber track comprising at least one rubber element comprising a composition according to the invention or a composition capable of being obtained by the process according to the invention, the at least one rubber element being preferably an endless rubber belt or a plurality of rubber pads, as well as a rubber conveyor belt comprising a composition according to the invention or a composition obtainable by the process according to the invention.

The invention relates to the tires and semi-finished products for tires described above, to rubber articles, both in the raw state (that is to say, before curing) and in the cured state (that is to say , after crosslinking or vulcanization).

III- PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In view of the above, the preferred embodiments of the invention are described below: 1. Rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer, from 10 to

60 phr of carbon black, from 5 to 30 phr of silica, a polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, and a crosslinking system, in which the carbon black represents from 50% to 95 % by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica. 2. Composition according to embodiment 1, in which the diene elastomer is chosen from the group consisting of polybutadienes, synthetic polyisoprenes, natural rubber, butadiene copolymers, isoprene copolymers and mixtures of these elastomers, preferably chosen from the group consisting of synthetic polyisoprenes, natural rubber and mixtures thereof. 3. Composition according to embodiment 1, in which the diene elastomer predominantly comprises at least one polyisoprene, preferably at least one epoxidized polyisoprene.

4. Composition according to embodiment 1, in which the diene elastomer predominantly comprises at least one epoxidized polyisoprene having a molar rate of epoxidation ranging from 5% to 85%. 5. Composition according to embodiment 4, in which the at least one epoxidized polyisoprene has a molar rate of epoxidation ranging from 40% to 80%, preferably from 45% to 75%.

6. Composition according to embodiment 4, in which at least one epoxidized polyisoprene has a molar rate of epoxidation ranging from 10% to less than 49%, preferably from 15% to less than 40%.

7. Composition according to any one of embodiments 4 to 6, in which the epoxidized polyisoprene has a Mooney viscosity (ML 1 + 4) at 100 ° C measured according to the standard ASTM DI 646 (1999) included in a range ranging from 30 to 150, preferably 40 to 150, more preferably 50 to 140.

8. Composition according to any one of embodiments 3 to 7, in which the level of polyisoprene, preferably epoxidized polyisoprene, is within a range ranging from 50 to 100 phr, preferably from 75 to 100 phr, more preferably still. it is 100 pce. 9. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the level of carbon black is within a range ranging from 15 to 55 phr, preferably from 30 to 50 phr.

10. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the level of silica is within a range ranging from 5 to 25 phr, preferably from 6 to 20 phr.

11. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, not comprising a coupling agent or comprising less than 6% by weight relative to the weight of silica, preferably less than 2% by weight relative to the weight of silica. .

12. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, not comprising a coupling agent.

13. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the total level of carbon black and of silica is within a range ranging from 15 to 90 phr, preferably from 20 to 70 phr.

14. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the carbon black represents from 60% to 90% by weight, preferably from 65% to 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of carbon black and of silica. 15. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the polyethylene is functionalized by a function chosen from the group consisting of maleic anhydride, epoxy, amines and acids, preferably by a maleic anhydride function. 16. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the polyethylene does not comprise a polypropylene unit or comprises less than 10% thereof by weight relative to the total weight of the polyethylene.

17. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the level of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C is within a range ranging from 3 to 40 phr, preferably from 5 to 30 pc.

18. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the total content of carbon black, of silica and of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, is within a range ranging from 20. to 90 phr, preferably 30 to 80 phr. 19. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the volume fraction of the whole of carbon black, silica and polyethylene is within a range ranging from 10% to 40%, preferably from 15% to 35%.

20. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the total level of thermoplastic polymer is within a range ranging from 3 to 40 phr, preferably from 5 to 30 phr.

21. Composition according to any one of the preceding embodiments, in which the composition does not comprise a thermoplastic polymer other than polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C.

22. Process for preparing a composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) bringing into contact and mixing, concomitantly or successively, in one or more times , at least one diene elastomer, a filler comprising carbon black and silica, the carbon black representing from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica, and a polyethylene exhibiting a melting temperature between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, thermomechanically mixing everything until reaching a maximum temperature Tl greater than or equal to the melting temperature of the polyethylene, b) reducing the temperature of the mixture obtained in step (a) to a maximum temperature T2 below the melting point of the polyethylene, then incorporating a crosslinking system into the mixture and mixing the whole.

23. The method according to embodiment 22, in which the polyethylene is introduced in the solid state.

24. Method according to embodiment 22 or 23, in which the maximum temperature T1 is 5 to 20 ° C higher than the temperature of the polyethylene.

25. A method according to any one of embodiments 22 to 24, in which the maximum temperature T2 is less than 120 ° C, preferably less than 100 ° C. 26. Rubber composition obtainable by the process according to any one of embodiments 22 to 25.

27. Rubber article comprising a composition as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21 or 26.

28. Rubber article according to embodiment 27, said article being selected from the group consisting of pneumatic tires, non-pneumatic tires, caterpillars and conveyor belts.

29. Pneumatic or non-pneumatic tire provided with a tread comprising a composition as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21 or 26. 30. Tire according to embodiment 29, being a tire for a civil engineering vehicle, agricultural or heavy goods vehicles, preferably of civil engineering.

31. A tire according to embodiment 29 or 30, the tread of which has one or more grooves, the average depth of which is within a range ranging from 30 to 120 mm, preferably from 45 to 75 mm. 32. A tire according to any one of embodiments 29 to 21, exhibiting an average volume hollow rate over the whole of the tread within a range ranging from 5 to 40%, preferably from 5 to 25%.

33. A bandage according to any one of embodiments 29 to 32, having a diameter ranging from 20 to 63 inches, preferably from 35 to 63 inches. 34. Track comprising at least one rubber element comprising a composition as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21 or 26. 35. Track according to embodiment 34, wherein the at least one rubber element is an endless rubber belt or a plurality of rubber pads.

36. Rubber conveyor belt comprising a composition as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 21 or 26.

IV- EXAMPLES

IV- 1 Measurements and Tests Used Dynamic Properties The dynamic properties G * and Max tan (ô) are measured on a viscoanalyst (Metravib VA4000), according to the ASTM D5992-96 standard. The response of a sample of vulcanized composition (cylindrical test piece 2 mm thick and 79 mm ² in section) is recorded, subjected to a sinusoidal stress in alternating simple shear, at a frequency of 10 Hz, under normal conditions of temperature (23 ° C) according to ASTM D 1349-09. A strain amplitude sweep is carried out from 0.1% to 50% (outward cycle), then from 50% to 0.1% (return cycle). On the return cycle, the value of the loss factor is recorded, noted tan (ô) _max .

The results of hysteretic performance (tan (ô) max at 23 ° C.) are expressed as a percentage base 100 relative to the control composition T1. A result greater than 100 indicates an improvement in the hysteretic performance, ie a decrease in thysteresis.

Track test This test is representative of resistance to attack. It consists in rolling a metal caterpillar mounted on a pneumatic tire mounted on a wheel and vehicle, and inflated, on which rubber pads of a given composition are fixed, on a track filled with stones for a certain time. At the end of the ride, the pads are removed and the number of cuts visible to the naked eye on the surface is counted. The lower the number, the better the aggression resistance performance. To carry out this test, pads of different compositions (see Table 1 below) were manufactured according to the method described in point Vl above. To obtain a pad, the non-crosslinked composition obtained at point Vl was calendered to a thickness of 5.5 mm, cut from the plates (2 of 260x120 mm, 2 of 250x100 mm and 2 of 235x90 mm) which were then stacked. in a pyramidal fashion. This block of 6 plates was then inserted into a pyramid-shaped mold with a rectangular base of 260x120 mm and a flat top of 235x90 mm in area, and baked at a temperature of 120 ° C for 300 minutes at a pressure of 180 bars, thus allowing crosslinking of the composition.

The pads were then mounted on two X-TRACK10 metal tracks from the Caterpillar company, which were themselves mounted on two MICHELIN XMINE D2 12.00R24 tires on the rear axle of a SCANIA R410 truck. The tires have been recut to support the tracks. The tires were inflated to a pressure of 7 bars and carried a load of 4250 kg per tire.

The truck drove on a slope without slope covered with porphyry pebbles of size 30/60 obtained from SONVOLES Murcia, Spain, for 5 hours at a speed of 5 km / h. The density of pebbles on the track was around 1,000 to 1,500 pebbles per square meter.

At the end of the test, the visible cuts on the surface of the pads were counted. The result was averaged on the basis of 6 pads. The results of performance against attacks are expressed as a percentage base 100 relative to the control composition T1. A result greater than 100 indicates an improvement in resistance to attacks.

IV-2 Preparation of the compositions

In the examples which follow, the rubber compositions were produced as described in point II-B above. In particular, the “non-productive” phase was carried out in a 0.4 liter mixer for 8 minutes, for an average pallet speed of 50 revolutions per minute until a maximum drop temperature of 165 ° C. was reached. The "productive" phase was carried out in a cylinder tool at 23 ° C for 5 minutes. The crosslinking of the composition was carried out at a temperature between 130 ° C and 200 ° C, under pressure.

IV-3 Tests of rubber compositions The examples presented below aim to compare the performance compromise between resistance to mechanical attack and hysteresis of four compositions in accordance with the present invention (C1 to C3) with two control compositions (Tl and T2). The formulations tested all contain an elastomeric matrix and a filler system, the natures and contents of which are presented in Table 1 below, as well as 1 pce of anti-ozone wax (“VARAZON 4959” from the company Sasol Wax), 1.5 phr of anti-oxidant (Nl, 3-dimethylbutyl-N-phenylparaphenylenediamine, “Santoflex 6-PPD” from the company Flexsys), 1 phr of stearic acid (“Pristerene 4931” from the company Uniqema), 2, 5 pce of industrial grade zinc oxide (Umicore company), 1 pce of 2,2,4-trimethyl-l, 2-dihydroquinoline (“Pilnox TMQ” from the company Nocil) and 2.5 pce of polyethylene glycol “CARBOWAX8000 "From the company DOW CORNING, 1.5 phr of sulfur, and 1.1 phr of N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazol-sulfenamide (" Santocure CBS "from the company Flexsys) as vulcanization accelerator. The properties of these formulations are also presented in Table 1 below.

Witness T1 is a composition conventionally used in tire treads for civil engineering vehicles. Compositions C1 and C2 differ from control T2 only by the presence of polyethylene exhibiting a melting point between 120 ° C and 160 ° C. Composition C3 makes it possible to study the impact of the nature of the diene elastomer on the aforementioned performance compromise. [Table 1]

(1) SBR tin functionalized solution with 5% of 1,2 polybutadiene units - 29% of styrene units - Tg = -52 ° C

(2) Natural rubber

(3) Epoxidized natural rubber at 50% molar (“Epoxyprene 50” from the company Gurthrie) (4) PE-1: high density polyethylene (HDPE) “MP90 U” from the company “ENI versalis” (Tm = 137 ° C

(5) PE-2: polyethylene functionalized with maleic anhydride “Exxelor ™ PE 1040” from the company ExxonMobil (Tm = 134 ° C.)

(6) NI 15 grade carbon black according to ASTM D-1765

(7) “ULTRASIL VN3” silica from the company Evonik

The results presented in Table 1 above show that the use of the charging system comprising a polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, carbon black and silica in accordance with the present invention allows to '' greatly improve resistance to attacks without penalizing Thysteresis, or even improving it.

Claims

1. Rubber composition based on at least one diene elastomer, 10 to 60 phr of carbon black, 5 to 30 phr of silica, a polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C. , and a crosslinking system, in which the carbon black represents from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica.

2. Composition according to claim 1, wherein G diene elastomer is selected from the group consisting of polybutadienes, synthetic polyisoprenes, natural rubber, butadiene copolymers, isoprene copolymers and mixtures of these elastomers, of preferably chosen from the group consisting of synthetic polyisoprenes, natural rubber and mixtures thereof.

3. Composition according to claim 1, in which the diene elastomer predominantly comprises at least one epoxidized polyisoprene having a molar rate of epoxidation ranging from 5% to 85%.

4. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the level of carbon black is in a range ranging from 15 to 55 phr, preferably from 30 to 50 phr.

5. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the level of silica is within a range ranging from 5 to 25 phr, preferably from 6 to 20 phr.

6. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, not comprising a coupling agent or comprising less than 6% by weight relative to the weight of silica, preferably less than 2% by weight relative to the weight of silica. .

7. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the carbon black represents from 60% to 90% by weight, preferably from 65% to 80% by weight, relative to the total weight of carbon black and of silica.

8. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the polyethylene is functionalized by a function chosen from the group consisting of maleic anhydride, epoxy, amines and acids, preferably by a maleic anhydride function.

9. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the polyethylene does not comprise a polypropylene unit or comprises less than 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the polyethylene.

10. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the amount of polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C is within a range ranging from 3 to 40 phr, preferably from 5 to 30 pc.

11. Composition according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the total level of carbon black, silica and polyethylene having a melting point of between 120 ° C and 160 ° C is within a range ranging from 20 to 90 phr, preferably 30 to 80 phr.

12. Process for preparing a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) bringing into contact and mixing, concomitantly or successively, in one or more times. , at least one diene elastomer, a filler comprising carbon black and silica, the carbon black representing from 50% to 95% by weight relative to the total weight of carbon black and silica, and a polyethylene exhibiting a melting temperature between 120 ° C and 160 ° C, thermomechanically mixing everything until reaching a maximum temperature Tl greater than or equal to the melting temperature of the polyethylene, b) reducing the temperature of the mixture obtained in step (a) to a maximum temperature T2 below the melting point of the polyethylene, then incorporating a crosslinking system into the mixture and mixing the whole.

13. A rubber composition obtainable by the process according to claim 12.

14. A rubber article comprising a composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11 or 13.

15. The rubber article of claim 14, said article being selected from the group consisting of pneumatic tires, non-pneumatic tires, tracks and conveyor belts.