The dispersion of mesoporous silica nanoparticles in a thermoset or thermoplastic polymer matrix can provide a reinforcement mechanism distinct from delaminated clays and like particles that lack porosity. Owing to the large size of the pores and the small physical size of the particles, polymer stands can penetrate the intra-crystal space provided by the silica framework and physically link ensembles of particles, thereby providing an additional reinforcement mechanism in comparison to non-porous particles that are limited to interfacial reinforcement only at the external surfaces of the particles. Depending in the nature of the polymer matrix, the dispersed particles are capable of promoting both ceramic and carbonaceous chars that substantially reduce the rate of heat release upon combustion of the polymer in air. In addition to providing flame retardant properties to composite systems, mesoporous particles embedded in the walls of  polymeric water filtration membranes increase wettability and permeability without particle shedding and without compromising the rejection properties of the membrane. Examples of mechanical reinforcement, flame retardation and water filtration will be provided for representative polymer composite systems.

Reinforcement, flame retardation, and permeability of polymer nanocomposites containing surfactant-templated mesoporous silica

248th National Meeting (2014)

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