Effect of surface modification with carbon-containing groups on the size, properties, and morphology of silica particles

We report the properties of hydrated silica surface-modified with aminopropyl, 3-(2-imidazolin-1-yl)propyl, or 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecyl. The modifier groups reside on the surface of the silica nanoparticles, as shown by NMR spectroscopy. We examine the effect of the nature and concentration of the modifier on the particle size and specific surface area of silica. Thermal analysis results demonstrate that the modified materials are stable up to 430°C.