TiO₂‐SiO₂/Ph‐POSS Functional Hybrids: Preparation and Characterisation

Abstract

The results of studies involving the innovative TiO 2 ‐SiO 2 /Ph‐POSS hybrid were presented. An inorganic TiO 2 ‐SiO 2 oxide composite was precipitated from an emulsion media. The functionalisation of surface for the obtained composite was carried out with the use of TriSilanolPhenyl POSS (Ph‐POSS) and a silane coupling agent—phenyltrimethoxysilane (PTMS). Electrokinetic and physicochemical as well as structural characteristics of obtained hybrids were evaluated. The zeta potential value has been determined, which provides relevant information regarding the interactions between colloid particles. Measurement of the zeta potential values allowed for an indirect assessment of stability for the studied hybrid fillers. In the next step, the degree of dispersion and surface morphology were evaluated based on the obtained particle size distribution curves and TEM images. The hydrophilic‐hydrophobic character of the surface was assessed by analysing the wettability profiles. The modification degree of the TiO 2 ‐SiO 2 oxide composite was evaluated based on the infrared spectroscopy studies (FT‐IR). Determination of the parameters of the porous structure was conducted by determining the specific surface area and the total volume and mean size of pores. Thermogravimetric measurements (TGA) were also carried out in order to measure the changes in sample mass as a function of temperature.