The effects of functionality of the organifier on the physical properties of polyurethane rigid foam/organified nanosilica

Abstract

3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) was used as coupling agent on the nanosilica surface and its effects on the physical properties of polyurethane rigid foam were compared with nanosilica modified with n-(2-aminoethyl)-3- aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AEAP). Characterization and investigation of properties were done by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis and thermomechanical analysis. Also, the tensile properties were evaluated. In the case of nanocomposite based on APTS poor static mechanical properties and better dynamic mechanical properties were reported as compared with nanocomposite based on AEAP. Thus, AEAP with two functional groups reinforced the interfacial area and weakened the bulk matrix by disruption of the stoichiometry ratio. © Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2011.