Ways to improve performances of reinforced-polymers: from dispersion up to interphase control

摘要

This work deals with the silane treatment of fillers to improve composites ultimate properties. The dispersion mechanisms as well as the way silane operates as hydrophobic agent up to interpenetrating network formation (IPN) are discussed. Silane filler-treatment was performed on talc and silica using a variety of silane functionalities. Treated fillers were compounded into talc reinforced thermoplastics and silica reinforced organic rubber. The results show that silane enhances filler wetting. Depending on the silane functionality, we can observe a torque reduction at compounding stage, a shrinkage reduction and also a significant change on tan δ leading to improved impact resistance. The effect of silane functionality on processing improvement and mechanical properties are discussed. Additionally, the influence of processing conditions such as processing temperature is investigated. A combined effect of silane functionality and processing conditions in enhancing composite ultimate properties is evident. Finally, the future research directions for a reinforcement step-change are discussed.