The preparation and structural characterization of ambient-dried porous methylsilicone matrix doped with SiO2 powder

Abstract Porous methylsilicone monoliths doped with SiO 2 powder were prepared by dispersion of SiO 2 nanoparticles in methylsilicone oligomer solution followed by ammonia-catalyzed gelation and ambient drying. The microstructure of the porous composite monoliths was investigated by FTIR, SEM, and N 2 adsorption. The results indicated that SiO 2 evenly dispersed in methylsilicone matrix. The thermal stability of SiO 2 -doped methylsilicone monoliths had been enhanced. The structure stability and hydrophobic property of the composite monoliths were maintained until 400 °C.