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Sol-gel derived silica/siloxane composite materials: The effect of loading level and catalyst activity on silica domain formation

Conference ·
OSTI ID:10104340
; ; ; ;  [1]; ; ;  [2]
  1. Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
  2. Dow Corning Corp., Midland, MI (United States)

Currently, the production of in situ reinforcement in polymeric systems by sol-gel methods is undergoing rapid development. However, understanding of synthesis/structure/property relationships is still lacking. In order to produce sol-gel derived composite materials with sufficient mechanical properties for commercial applications, this deficit of information must be addressed. We have completed a detailed investigation of in situ silica growth in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) systems. Factors which affect the domain growth, such as catalyst activity and silica loading, have been examined by solid state {sup 29}Si NMR, SEM, mechanical testing and small angle neutron scattering.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000
OSTI ID:
10104340
Report Number(s):
SAND--93-2542C; CONF-940301--1; ON: DE94002734; BR: GB0103012
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English