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Aerogels from Chloromethyltrimethoxysilane and Their Functionalizations
Tomoki Kimura1, Taiyo Shimizu1, Kazuyoshi Kanamori1
1Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University , Kitashirakawa, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|November 2, 2017
Summary
This study explores functionalized and reinforced aerogels using chloromethyltrimethoxysilane (CMTMS). New gelation strategies involving nucleophilic substitution reactions were developed, enhancing aerogel mechanical properties and enabling nanostructure support.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Aerogels offer unique properties but often lack mechanical strength and tailored functionality.
- Chloromethyltrimethoxysilane (CMTMS) presents a versatile precursor for silsesquioxane-based materials.
- Surface functionalization is key to developing advanced aerogel applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reactivity of CMTMS and its derived polychloromethylsilsesquioxane (PCMSQ) for aerogel design.
- To develop strategies for functionalizing aerogels with nanostructures.
- To enhance the mechanical properties of aerogels through novel gelation methods.
Main Methods:
- Sol-gel processing of CMTMS in the presence of cationic surfactants.
- Incorporation of photoluminescent carbon dots (C-dots) onto chloromethyl groups.
- Development of a gelation strategy triggered by nucleophilic substitution (SN2) reactions.
Main Results:
- Transparent CMTMS-derived aerogels were successfully synthesized.
- Chloromethyl groups facilitated the support of C-dots, demonstrating functionalization potential.
- SN2 reactions controlled siloxane bond dynamics, enabling a new gelation pathway.
- Hybrid PCMSQ/polyamine networks exhibited enhanced mechanical properties.
Conclusions:
- CMTMS is a valuable precursor for creating functionalized and mechanically robust aerogels.
- The SN2-triggered gelation strategy offers a novel route for aerogel material design.
- This work expands the possibilities for advanced aerogel applications through tailored synthesis and reinforcement.
