Analyzing Friction in the Design of Rubber Products and Their Paired Surfaces

Supported by extensive analytical evidence, this book details what rubber friction is and why it behaves the way it does. With numerous figures and quantitative examples, it illustrates how to analyze rubber friction in an accurate, predictive manner. The author reveals that the laws of metallic friction do not apply to rubber and presents a scientifically based unified theory for the behavior of rubber friction. He also demonstrates the existence of a fourth basic rubber friction force (surface deformation hysteresis) as well as addresses the design and analysis of specific rubber products, such as tires and footwear, and their contacted surfaces.