The global winter tire market is growing at a 4.4 percent annual rate. Naphthenic tire oils are commonly used in winter tire compounding. They have a very good compatibility with the low polarity, low glass transition temperature polymers used in winter tires.
Properties of naphthenic oil containing rubber compounds were compared with similar compounds made of other safe tire oils. Retreaded passenger car winter tires were prepared using the compounds. Traction and rolling resistance of the tires were determined in different weather conditions.