Surface Chemical Modification of Nanosilica for Reinforcing Silicone Rubber

In recent years, nanosilicas have received particular attention in the use as filler for reinforcing silicone rubber. They can be homogeneously distributed within the polymer matrix and improve the physical and mechanical properties of silicone rubber, e.g. the tensile strength, tear strength, modulus and abrasion resistance. The enhanced performance in mechanical and thermal aspects is primarily attributed to the formation of the strong interfacial interactions between nanosilica filler and rubber matrix. Many methods for the surface chemical modification of nanosilica are developed to enhance its dispersion and compatibility in silicone rubber by changing its surface from hydrophilic to hydrophobic nature. We briefly summarized recent literatures on the techniques of the surface chemical modification of nanosilica for use in reinforcement of silicone rubber.