Hybrid Materials Based on Nanoparticles Functionalized with Alkylsilanes Covalently Anchored to Epoxy Matrices

In this work, the surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) with 3-glycidyloxy-propyl-trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) was investigated. The ZnO-NPs were synthesized using the physical method of continuous arc discharge in controlled atmosphere (DARC-AC). The surface modification was carried out using a chemical method with constant agitation for 24 h at room temperature. This surface functionalization of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs-GPTMS) was experimentally confirmed by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), TGA, and XRD, and its morphological characterization was performed with SEM. The increase in mechanical bending properties in the two final hybrid materials compared to the base polymers was verified. An average increase of 67% was achieved with a moderate decrease in ductility. In the case of compressive strength, they showed mixed results, maintaining the properties. With respect to thermal properties, it was observed that inorganic reinforcement conferred resistance to degradation on the base material, giving a greater resistance to high temperatures.

Automated summary

This study confirmed through experiments the surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles with 3-glycidyloxy-propyl-trimethoxysilane, enhancing the mechanical bending properties of the hybrid materials while causing a slight decrease in ductility. Results for compressive strength were mixed, but overall properties were maintained. Observations on thermal properties indicated that the inorganic reinforcement conferred resistance to degradation on the base material.