Nanocomposite structure based on silylated MCM-48 and poly(vinyl acetate)

As-synthesized MCM-48 was modified via silylation with Cl-Si(CH3)(3). The resulting silylated MCM-48 possesses a well-ordered long-range structure, a narrow distribution of nanosized pore diameters, a high mesoporous volume, a large specific surface area, and, most significantly, a hydrophobic surface. A nanocomposite structure based on silylated MCM-48 and poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) has been prepared through both in situ polymerization and incorporation of preformed polymer. Characterization by FT-IR, XRD, and N-2 adsorption-desorption techniques indicates the latter method is more effective than the in situ polymerization method. The composites obtained by addition of the PVAC/silylated MCM-48 particles to a PVAc matrix have significantly enhanced mechanical performance, including toughness and elasticity, when compared with PVAc itself or with composites derived from PVAc and pure silylated MCM-48 or precipitated silica.