The most recent groundbreaking advancement in NXT* silanes for silica tires is NXT Z* silane, which is expected to raise the tire-performance bar with improved dynamic and physical properties. GE's newest NXT silane coupling agent for silica tires is essentially ethanol-free and features the one-pass mixing and shelf-stable compounds for which NXT silanes are known. Compared with traditional silanes, this new silane will virtually eliminate(1) the ethanol that is released during manufacturing and use of silica tires.