Solvent effect on nanosilica surface modification by acrylic silane-tertiary amine coupling agent

Polymeric nanocomposites have received many attentions due to their improved properties. In order to have a good nanoparticles dispersion in polymer media and so a nanocomposite film with desired properties, the surface modification of these particles that usually were done by silane coupling agents seems to be necessary when suitable selection of these compounds can improve both nanoparticles dispersion and final coating properties. Many parameters such as pH, solvent type, water content, etc. affect on this process. Here we tried to synthesize acrylic silane-tertiary amine by michael addition reaction and investigate the effect of two solvents type; one with higher polar and another with higher hydrogen bonding solubility parameter on silane grafting content. FTIR and CHN analysis, surface pH and sedimentation test were used for characterization. Results showed that acetone(more polar solvent) have better performance for this process.