Mechanical characterization and optical properties analysis of organically modified silicates

SiO2–γ-Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GLYMO), SiO2–methyl methacrylate monomers (MMA) and SiO2–PMMA gel glasses, based on microscopic toughening and embedding mechanism, respectively, were prepared through sol–gel route. The mechanical and optical properties of these hybrid materials were measured, and the effect of organic modification on the properties was discussed. The results showed that, in comparison with MMA (PMMA)-modified silicates based on organic embedding, the fracture toughness of GLYMO-modified silicates based on microscopic toughening was efficiently increased, due to the direct chemical bonds between organic and inorganic components. The optical absorption of these hybrid materials decreased in the visible region, and the luminescent property of sulfosalicylic acid doped SiO2–GLYMO gel glasses was greatly improved.