---

Smithers Studies, Compares Sealant Tire

13 December 1999

Smithers Studies, Compares Sealant Tire

    AKRON, Ohio, Dec. 13 -- Smithers Scientific Services, Inc. is
conducting a special study of the latest "sealant containing" all-season
radial passenger tires offered by Continental General Tire and Uniroyal.
    Smithers has purchased samples of the P215/70R15 97S size General XP2000
GT Gen*Seal and the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Nail Gard passenger tires for special
laboratory and performance evaluations.
    "Although very similar in function, the sealant application in each of
these tire brands is very different and warrants examination," said J. Michael
Hochschwender, Smithers president and chief executive officer.  Smithers'
unique and comprehensive analysis of these tires will be available in late
December.
    Over the past 18 months, Smithers evaluated a number of run-flat tires
being produced by numerous tire manufacturers.  Those studies are currently
available at the Akron, Ohio-based firm.
    The company's laboratory study of the General Tire and Uniroyal sealant
tires will include a complete physical/mechanical and chemical analysis of
each tire, a photograph of each tire and a series of dynamic tests which will
examine the puncture sealing properties and rolling resistance benefits.
    Other details of the study will include tire blueprints, footprints at two
inflation pressures with net and gross areas; plunger energy requirements;
chemical and physical characterization of each sealant material; sealant
profiles; cold transmission flow characteristics of both sealants; cut tire
section of each tire; and technical remarks, observations and comments.
    "We plan to include the new Bridgestone/Firestone 'Sealix' sealant tire in
a subsequent study, when it becomes available after the first of the year,"
Mr. Hochschwender added.
    For further information about the study and its availability, contact
David E. Williams at Smithers in Akron via fax:  330-762-7447.