Self-formation of elastomer network assisted by nano-silicon dioxide particles: A simple and efficient route toward polymer nanocomposites with simultaneous improved toughness and stiffness

Adding nano-fillers into plastic matrix have been proved to be a possible way to reinforce polymeric materials. However, it is difficult to simultaneously improve the toughness and stiffness. To fix this, we herein provide a simple and efficient method-adding 8phr elastomer-chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) and 5phr nano-silicon dioxide (nano-SiO₂) particles into poly(acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylic) (ASA) matrix. By such a simple combination, the impact strength, tensile and flexural strength were enhanced by 82.7%, 22.7%, and 30.7%, respectively. It was demonstrated that the self-formation of CPE network assisted by nano-SiO₂ was responsible for the improved mechanical performance. Four issues are considered to be responsible for the self-formation of network: the increase in the viscosity, the decrease in the elasticity of nano-SiO₂-localized ASA phase, the effect of nano-SiO₂ on distracting the molecular interactions between CPE and ASA, and the interfacial adhesion. Our present study provides an easy and effective route toward polymeric materials with simultaneous improved toughness and stiffness.