Synthesis and properties of organic/inorganic hybrid nanoparticles prepared using atom transfer radical polymerization

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science Vol. 109; no. 5; pp. 3421 - 3430
• Main Authors: Wang, Tzong-Liu, Ou, Chia-Chih, Yang, Chien-Hsin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 05.09.2008; Wiley
• Subjects: Applied sciences; atom transfer radical polymerization; colloidal initiators; Composites; contact angle; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; nanoparticles; organic/inorganic hybrid materials; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; Atom transfer polymerization; Methyl methacrylate polymer; Organic silane; contact angle; Experimental study; Silica; Composite material; Thermal stability; Surface treatment; Coupling agent; Thermal properties; Wettability; atom transfer radical polymerization; colloidal initiators; nanoparticles; organic/inorganic hybrid materials; Morphology; Preparation; Reaction mechanism; Surface properties; Styrene polymer; Nanocomposite
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.28462

The synthesis of organic/inorganic hybrid materials was conducted by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene and methyl methacrylate (MMA) from the surface of silica colloids. Colloidal initiators were prepared by the functionalization of silica nanoparticles with (3-(2-bromoisobutyryl)propyl) dimethylethoxysilane (BIDS). Well-defined polymer chains were grown from the nanoparticle surfaces to yield individual particles composed of a silica core and a well-defined outer polystyrene (PS) or poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) layer. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and solid state ¹³C and ²⁹Si-NMR spectroscopy confirmed the successful modification of nanosilica surfaces. Subsequent grafting of polymers on silica surfaces by ATRP was also performed with success based on FTIR and NMR data. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and silicon mapping showed both hybrid materials were homogeneous dispersion systems. Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) analysis indicated that the BIDS initiator was covalently attached on surfaces of silica nanoparticles and ATRP of styrene and MMA were accomplished. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results displayed higher thermal stabilities for both nanohybrids in comparison with the linear-type vinyl polymers. Contact angle measurements revealed the nanomaterials character for both silica-based hybrid materials.