Synthesis and Characterization of Cross-Linked Polymer–Silica Composite Particles with Multi-Functional Groups

Abstract

Two types of core-shell composite particles, each comprising an aromatic poly(esteramide) (PEA) having amide and hydroxyl groups combined with silica (SiO₂), were synthesized. This synthesis was performed by polymerizing two monomers in a mixture of acetone and N,N-dimethylacetamide in the presence of porous SiO₂ particles. The surface morphologies of the resulting composite particles and the PEA loadings were determined to be highly dependent on the reaction solvent composition and the monomer used. Both types of particles exhibited unique adsorption properties depending on the dye being adsorbed and displayed differing adsorption efficiencies. In additional trials, carbon-SiO₂ particles were obtained by heating the PEA-SiO₂ particles to 700 °C under nitrogen.