Synthesis of SiOH-functionalized composite particles with buckled surface by seeded emulsion polymerization

Abstract

We demonstrate the synthesis of SiOH-functionalized composite particles with buckled surface via a seeded emulsion polymerization method, their evolution into bicompartmental particles and their application in superhydrophobic coatings. By using polystyrene spheres swelled with non-polymerizable solvent as seeds, emulsion polymerization of 3-(trimethoxysily) propyl methacrylate and styrene leads to the formation of deflated ball- or dried plum-shaped composite particles. The change of solvent amount causes the variation of the morphologies of the obtained particles. With these composite particles as seeds for further emulsion polymerization, bicompartmental particles with unique morphologies are fabricated. On account of the silanol groups generated by hydrolysis of 3-methacryloxy propyl trimethoxysilane (MPS) on their surface, these particles are easily functionalized with organosilane for various applications and also could be applied in the synthesis of more complex organic–inorganic hybrid materials. The modification of the particles with fluorinated silane and their application in the fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces are demonstrated.