What is the principle of self-sealing liquid?
3 Answers
Tire self-sealing liquid can repair tires because it contains rubber fiber particles and adhesive components. When there is a puncture in the tire, the rubber fiber particles in the self-sealing liquid will fill the hole, and the adhesive will quickly bond the particles. Utilizing the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the tire, the rubber fibers tightly adhere to the inner wall of the tire, achieving the purpose of sealing the puncture. Here is additional information: Tire self-sealing liquid is an automatic tire repair solution used to prevent slow air leakage and seal holes in tires. The self-sealing agent is injected into the tire through the valve stem in a certain amount, and then the tire is fully inflated.
The principle of tire sealant is actually quite simple. When a tire is punctured by a small object, like a nail, the air inside starts to leak out. The sealant is a viscous liquid containing rubber compounds and some fibrous particles. Once a leak occurs, the pressure from the escaping air pushes the liquid toward the puncture, filling it. The fibers or rubber compounds then clog the hole, forming a seal that stops the air from leaking. I've tried it several times, and it works decently, but only for small punctures. If the hole is too big, it won't work. After using it, you should go to a professional shop as soon as possible to clean it out and properly repair the tire, as leaving the sealant inside for too long can corrode the wheel rim or affect balance. It's handy to keep in the car for emergencies. In short, the principle relies on the fluidity and solidifying properties of the liquid to temporarily seal the hole. It's best to buy from a reputable brand, check the expiration date, and not rely on it if it's past its shelf life.
Speaking of the principle of tire sealant, I can share some practical thoughts. Essentially, when there's a small puncture in the tire, the adhesive components in the sealant are pushed by the air, automatically filling the hole, then quickly hardening or bonding to plug the leak. I always think of it as a first-aid kit that can save trouble in critical moments. However, caution is needed when using it: don't drive aggressively after a puncture, as the liquid might not have time to seal and could fail; also, it's not suitable for sidewall or large damages. Regular maintenance should include checking the spare tire's adequacy in the car, and using it together yields better results. Most tire sealants are made of polymer materials that dry quickly, similar to leak-sealing glue. A downside is that it slightly alters the tire's weight, possibly causing minor wobbles when driving. It's advisable to learn how to use it correctly, such as inflating a bit before spraying the liquid. For safe driving, having it prevents the embarrassment of sudden blowouts. Store it in a cool place, and replacing it every six months is the safest bet.
