F1, Pirelli Video 3D: The blistering effect

One of the main problems that drivers can encounter with their tires is a phenomenon known as 'blistering'. All PZero tires are subjected to a chemical treatment to minimize the risk of this occurrence, essentially caused by overheating.

There are several reasons why tires can overheat, primarily when they slip too much and generate too much friction. This can happen due to lack of load, problems with the car's set-up or an overly aggressive driving style.

Blistering originates in the innermost part of the tyre, the one most stressed and subjected to the highest temperatures. The phenomenon occurs when the rubber close to the casing overheats, creating small air bubbles inside the tire, which gradually trigger the rubber to begin detaching in different points.

Therefore, real detachments of portions of rubber of variable size occur depending on the level of thermal and mechanical stress to which they are subjected. This leaves craters, rather large and visible on the tread, which often reach up to the casing. The appearance is very similar to that of a blister, or 'blister' in English, hence the name.

To prevent blistering, drivers must maintain a clean driving style, preventing the car from slipping too much and overheating the tyres. The teams must also ensure that there is sufficient downforce, so that the cars have the right aerodynamic grip when cornering.

When a car is close to the one in front, the slipstream causes it to lose load, causing it to slide more, another factor that can lead to overheating and eventual blistering.

Track conditions also have a profound effect. When the track is 'green', with very little rubber deposited on the surface, there is also less grip and the cars slide more. As the weekend progresses, deposits are left on the track which gradually cover it with a layer of rubbery material.

This clean, or rubberized, trajectory generates exceptional grip when in contact with the tire, reducing degradation and the risk of blistering. However, blistering is a rather rare event, underlining the consistency and stability of the new PZero tyres.