Modification and Dispersion of Nanosilica

Abstract

The modification and dispersion of nanosilica particles were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ²⁹Si CP MAS NMR, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Raman spectroscopy, particle size analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) using methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MAPTS) as the modification agent. It was found that MAPTS grafted onto silica particles, and exists in a T² structure. TGA data show that the nano‐silica particles with higher specific surface area and hydroxyl content could be grafted with more MAPTS than those with lower specific surface area and hydroxyl content. Increasing temperature was more significant than extended reaction time for increasing modification effects. MAPTS modification was beneficial for decreasing the particle size of nanosilica, and for improving their dispersion in resin.

Keywords:

• Modification
• Dispersion
• Nanosilica