Production of vulcanizable rubber composition with silica-based reinforcing filler

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a vulcanizable rubber composition having an improved silica dispersion, improved physico-mechanical characteristics and workability by blending at least one silica-based reinforcing filler. SOLUTION: In a process for producing a vulcanizable rubber composition containing silica and having a low content of carbon black, at least one silica- based reinforcing filler and at least one silane-based coupling agent are added to and mixed with other components of the composition in subsequent steps, at a temperature of 165-180°C and at a temperature of 110-160°C, respectively. The rubber composition so obtained has a improved silica dispersion, constant physico-mechanical characteristics and a better drawability and is particularly suitable for the manufacture of a tread for a tire with low rolling resistance. COPYRIGHT: (C)1996,JPO