One-Pot Preparation of Nano-SiO2 Using a Silane Derivative as a Coupling Agent

Abstract

Abstract The nano-silica particles were prepared by one-pot method using absolute ethanol as solvent. After the nano-silica derived from TEOS was synthesized, the coupling agent was added into the above suspension without any filtration or purification processes to modify the nano SiO2. The optimum modification conditions were determined based on the degree of oil affinity and water sorption ratio. The size and morphology of SiO2 before and after modification were observed using Transmission Electron Microscopy. The introductions of the organic chains to their surfaces were measured using Ultraviolet and Visible Spectrophotometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and 13C solid-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. The influences of the hydrophobicity of the organic functional group on the nano-silica particles were tested by the water contact angle. The results show that the organic chains had been grafted on the surface of nano-silica.