AbstractA bi-hybrid composite is represented by an organic-inorganic (O-I) filler dispersed in an O-I matrix. Polyaniline-montmorillonite, as a nanocomposite filler, was synthesised by two independent processes: (1) montmorillonite was surface-modified with a conducting polymer, polyaniline, during the in-situ oxidation of aniline or (2) montmorillonite was pre-treated with aniline, then the aniline was polymerised and the polyaniline subsequently produced penetrated the montmorillonite structure. The organic-inorganic polymer matrix was formed in two independent steps: (1) inorganic building units were formed in situ by the sol-gel process, (2) followed by organic polymeric matrix formation by polyaddition reactions of epoxy groups with amines. Polyaniline-montmorillonite filler was added to the reaction system between these two steps, i.e. when the inorganic structures of the O-I matrix have already been formed but prior to formation of the organic polymeric matrix. Two different O-I matrices were prepared from functionalised organosilicon precursors and oligomeric amines. 3-[(Glycidyloxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane reacted with α,ω-oligo(propylene oxide) diamine and diethoxy[3-(glycidyloxy)propyl]-methylsilane reacted with α,ω-oligo(propylene oxide) triamine. The resulting bi-hybrid coatings, the O-I filler dispersed in the O-I matrix, were characterised by atomic-force and optical microscopies, and also by tensile tests. The filler composition affected both the mechanical and surface properties of the coatings.
Inorganic Polymer Matrix Composite Strength Related to Interface Condition
