In situ generation of the surface‐modified silica nanoparticles within the silicone matrix

In this study, silica nanoparticles were generated and simultaneously modified inside the silicone resin. Intensive dispersion of the filler and prevention of the cure inhibition effect associated with the regular and unmodified silica particles as well as providing the conditions for grafting to the resin chains were targeted in this work. The dimensions of the nanoparticles, surface morphology, and cure property of the composites were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry and optimized. Surface chemistry of the modified nanoparticles was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurement. The effect of in situ synthesis/modification of the silica nanoparticles on mechanical characteristics of the obtained nanocomposites were also examined mainly by tensile properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1365–1370, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers