Surface modification of TiO₂ nanoparticles with silane coupling agent for nanocomposite with poly(butyl acrylate)

In order to enhance the compatibility of TiO₂ nanoparticles in poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA) matrix, surface modification of TiO₂ was conducted using 3-methacryloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS). To improve the effect of surface modification, TiO₂ was predispersed in ethanol via ultrasonic waves. The process was investigated in detail to obtain the optimum condition of ultrasonic dispersion. The dispersion of TiO₂ in ethanol was evaluated via sedimentation rate. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis were performed to investigate the effect of surface modification. It was found that the organic functional groups of MPS had been successfully grafted onto the surface of TiO₂ nanoparticles. Finally, both neat PBA film and TiO₂/PBA composite film were prepared and characterised. The modified TiO₂ presented good compatibility in PBA matrix.