Synthesis of hybrid materials via photopolymerization of benzoin functionalized silica nanoparticles

Photopolymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) was achieved on the surface of silica nanoparticles by "Grafting from" method. Well defined spherical silica nanoparticles prepared by Stöber method was functionalized with isocyanate groups of toluene di-isocyanate in order to achieve both improved dispersion of nanoparticles in organic solvents and further attachment of benzoin photoinitiator moieties onto the surface of silica nanoparticles. FTIR spectroscopy analysis confirmed the covalent bonding of the functional moieties and grafting of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) onto the surface of silica nanoparticles. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated the ratios of attached functionalities and PMMA grafting with a good agreement of SEM observations.