Synthesis, structure and morphology of poly(dimethylsiloxane) networks filled with in situ generated silica particles

The morphology of silica particles generated in situ in PDMS networks in the presence of two types of catalysts is evaluated by using different techniques including solid-state 29Si MAS NMR, near-infrared spectroscopies and small-angle X-ray scattering. The interactions with the poly(dimethylsiloxane) chains are examined through the swelling properties and thermal characteristics (in particular crystallization process) of the composites. In addition, 1H NMR is used to investigate the adsorption layer of reduced mobility on the particle surface.