Silica Particle Dispersion Uniformity via Surface Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing silica particle dispersions often lack uniformity due to particle aggregation and size variability, which affects their performance in applications such as adhesive and optical materials.
Innovation Solution
Silica particles with a specific size range (1 nm to 100 nm) and surface treatment using agents like (meth)acryloyl group-containing compounds, produced through hydrolysis of alkoxysilanes in the presence of a basic catalyst and aromatic heterocyclic compounds, are used to enhance dispersion uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If silica particles with fine particle diameter (1 nm to 100 nm) are used, then the resin properties such as strength, hardness, and heat resistance are improved, but particle aggregation occurs leading to poor dispersion uniformity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameter of the silica particle surface by introducing polar groups through reaction with carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid. This surface modification alters the interaction between particles, reducing aggregation and improving dispersion uniformity while maintaining the fine particle diameter (1-100 nm) that provides enhanced resin properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality modification by treating only the surface of the silica particles with polar groups, while maintaining the fine particle core structure. This creates a dual-characteristic particle: a fine core for strength enhancement and a polar surface for improved dispersion uniformity, resolving the contradiction between particle size benefits and aggregation problems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If silica particles are subjected to surface treatment with polar groups, then dispersion uniformity is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by incorporating the polar group formation step during the silica particle synthesis process itself, rather than as a separate post-treatment step. The carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid is introduced during particle formation, achieving surface modification and dispersion improvement in an integrated process, thereby minimizing manufacturing complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The approach results in silica particle dispersions with excellent uniformity and suppressed aggregation, improving their performance in materials like adhesives and optical coatings.
Implementation Method 1
a method for producing silica particles, comprising hydrolyzing an alkoxysilane in presence of water, a basic catalyst, and an aromatic heterocyclic compound having a nitrogen atom
Data Source
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AI summary
The object of the present invention is to provide silica particles which can provide a silica particle dispersion exhibiting excellent uniformity. The present invention is silica particles having an average primary particle diameter dBET calculated from a specific surface area by a BET method of 1 nm or more and 100 nm or less and a ratio (dDLS/dBET) of an average secondary particle diameter dDLS measured by a dynamic light scattering method to the dBET of 1.2 or less. The silica particles of the present invention preferably have a coefficient of variation in a particle diameter measured using a transmission electron microscope at a magnification of 200,000 of 20% or less.