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Published on: October 11, 2016
Silica-boron composite nanoparticles: from architecture to mechanical performance
M Polat1, M Kaya1, M Cevik Eren2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology Urla-Izmir Türkiye.
RSC Advances
|July 13, 2026
Summary
Controlling how precursors are added during synthesis dictates the structure of silica-boron nanocomposites. This control over nanoscale architecture enhances their mechanical and tribological properties for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Controlling nanoscale architecture is crucial for the performance of hybrid nanomaterials.
- The mechanisms governing structural evolution in silica-boron nanocomposites are not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of precursor addition kinetics in the synthesis of silica-boron nanocomposites.
- To establish a link between synthesis pathways, nanoscale architecture, and material properties.
Main Methods:
- Modified Stöber process with controlled precursor addition.
- Comprehensive structural characterization using SEM, TEM/STEM, FTIR, XRD, EDX, and zeta potential analysis.
- Evaluation of mechanical and tribological properties, including extreme-pressure performance.
Main Results:
- Precursor addition kinetics decisively govern boron incorporation and structural evolution.
- Rapid addition leads to layered nanostructures with boron-rich domains; controlled dosing yields matrix-type particles with homogeneous boron distribution.
- Both architectures exhibit excellent extreme-pressure performance, with layered structures showing enhanced resistance to surface deformation.
Conclusions:
- Precursor kinetics serve as a critical design parameter for controlling nanoscale architecture in hybrid nanomaterials.
- The ability to tailor nanostructure through kinetics enables the development of multifunctional nanofillers with superior mechanical and tribological performance.
- This research advances the understanding and application of silica-boron nanocomposites in demanding environments.
