Abstract
Seed polymer/silica particles are synthesized by double in situ miniemulsion polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and hydrolysis–condensation of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) under basic conditions simultaneously. Nanocomposite microparticles with a controlled morphology are fabricated from seed polymer/silica particles by the further miniemulsion polymerization of styrene. We have demonstrated that the seed PMMA/silica particles are cross-linked by nanosilica particles, which are dispersed homogeneously in the polymer matrix. The in situ formed silica nanoparticles acting as the cross-linking agent favor the formation of nonspherical nanocomposite microparticles with a flower-like structure. Furthermore composite microparticles of spherical morphology are obtained without γ-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (MPS). The addition of divinylbenzene (DVB) leads to a higher degree of cross-linking of the seed polymer particles, which favors the formation of peanut-like microparticles.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
