Rabb S.A., Yu L.L., Nguyen T.
National Institute of Standards and Technology, US
Keywords: composite films, ICP-OES, nanosilica release
Silica nanoparticles are being utilized to enhance the mechanical performance of polymeric coatings used in automotive and construction industries. However, cumulative effects of UV radiation will degrade the polymeric molecules, resulting in a potential for release of the nanoparticles into the environment. As part of a study on the environmental fate of nanoparticles in polymer nanocomposites, three films, containing different mass fractions (0 %, 5 % and 10 %) of silica nanoparticles, have been subject to controlled degradation conditions at specified humidity, temperature, and UV radiation doses over a period of 59 days. To determine the rate of release, an analytical method is being developed to selectively attack silica nanoparticles on the surface of the film without extracting nanoparticles from the interior. Variable concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) have been investigated to optimize this dissolution process. The mass fraction of nanosilica in the extracted solutions is measured by inductively coupled plasma – optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Multiple sections of the film are analyzed to determine repeatability of release for each film. The results of this study will assist in establishing a reliable and sensitive method for measuring the release rate of silica nanoparticles from UV-irradiated polymer nanocomposites.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 728 - 731
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Composite Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5