Elastomeric Properties of Bimodal Networks Prepared by a Simultaneous Curing-Filling Technique

摘要

If the tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) used to end link hydroxyl-terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) chains is present in excess, there are two effects on the resulting network structure. First, some of excess TEOS hydrolyzes to give in situ precipitation of reinforcing silica particles. In addition, some can cause extension of the polymer chains, particularly of the shorter chains in the case of a bimodal network. In the present investigation, the ultimate strength and toughness of such bimodal networks was found to go through a maximum with increase in the amount of excess TEOS used in the curing-filling procedure. (Author)