This invention relates to a process of preparation of components and
articles of manufacture containing at least one of such components, such
as tires, and the resulting prepared components and fabricated articles,
by use of directed high frequency energy internally heated silica-rich
rubber compositions which contain sulfur curative and a significant
content of high softening point polymer, namely a polymer and/or
elastomer having a melting point (Tm) and/or high glass transition
temperature (Tg) above 0.degree. C., and particularly above 30.degree.
C., and which contains a minimal, if any, carbon black reinforcement.
Such directed high frequency energy heating is provided, individually, by
directed radio frequency (electromagnetic) radiation and/or by directed
microwave radiation. Representative examples of such polymers may be, for
example, trans 1,4-polybutadiene, 3,4-polyisoprene, natural cis
1,4-polyisoprene rubber, isoprene/butadiene copolymer having a high trans
1,4-polybutadiene component, polystyrene, styrene/butadiene rubber having
a high trans 1,4-polybudadiene component and styrene/butadiene rubber
having a high styrene content.