I’d like to see some R&D in tube or liner material technology. Something along the lines of superior stretch or compliance rather than thickness or density. Imagine a tube that is virtually impossible to puncture due to the material and/or construction. Or a similar material that could be manufactured into the interior of a tubeless type tire that would stretch or otherwise contour to invading objects.
I think the Kevlar and Vectran ideas have been carried out about as far as the tire companies want to go, and while these materials do bring a light weight benefit they’re not as effective as what I’d like. I’m not a material science guy, but I (perhaps mistakenly) think there must be room to investigate super compliant, stretchable materials suitable for tire or tube use.
-Kedosto