Surface-modified silica nanoparticles for reinforcement of PMMA

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) was introduced onto the surface of silica nanoparticles by particle pretreatment using silane coupling agent (γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane, KH570) followed by solution polymerization. The modified silica nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Sedimentation tests and lipophilic degree (LD) measurements were also performed to observe the compatibility between the modified silica nanoparticles and organic solvents. Thereafter, the PMMA slices reinforced by silica‐nanoparticle were prepared by in situ bulk polymerization using modified silica nanoparticles accompanied with an initiator. The resultant polymers were characterized by UV–vis, Sclerometer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The mechanical properties of the hybrid materials were measured. The results showed that the glass transition temperature, surface hardness, flexural strength as well as impact strength of the silica‐nanoparticle reinforced PMMA slices were improved. Moreover, the tensile properties of PMMA films doped with silica nanoparticles via solution blending were enhanced. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007