Amberlite XAD copolymers as an environment for silica deposition

Polymer-silica composites are one of the most important and popular groups of functional materials. Thanks to their unique properties combining the features of both polymer and silica components, they are increasingly used in many areas of life. Amberlite-silica composites were prepared via swelling of a polymer in tetraethoxysilane TEOS. The influence of the character of the polymer and temperature on the composite structure is discussed. A systematic study of the structure of the polymer-silica composites was carried out using various techniques. The pore system of the investigated materials was examined by nitrogen adsorption measurements. The mesopore structure of initial polymers is substantially changed after incorporation of the silica component. Thermal transformation of the silica and polymer network was investigated by positronium annihilation lifetime spectroscopy PALS. Morphological features of the bulk material were studied using SEM and a profilometer. Mechanical resistance of spherical composite materials and silica produced by combustion of the polymer in the composite was determined in a compressive stress experiment. Beside conventional information, structural characterization is supplemented with discussion of the structural stability of the studied materials in a wide temperature range. Characterization of the composite materials on a molecular scale allows optimal use and further development of the new synthesis route discussed.