Visualization of silica dispersion states in silicone rubber by fluorescent labeling

摘要： The internal dispersion structure of silica ?llers in polymer matrix is signi?cant for design and fabricating high-performance polymer composite. In order to explore the relationship between ?llers spatial dispersion states and mechanical properties, we use super?cial ?uorescent labeling to achieve ?llers visualization in polymer matrix with laser scanning confocal microscopy. Through the effect of ?uorescent silane coupling agent, the uniform red ?uorescence characteristics were shown on the silica surface. The 2D-planar and 3D-spatial dispersion states of silica ?llers in rubber matrix can be accurately observed with ?uorescence imaging technology. The results by Avizo software statistics show that high-content silica ?llers in composite tend to undergo dissociation of aggregates. These dissociated small volume aggregates which facilitate the interaction between particles and rubber matrix to dissipate mechanical energy effectively and rapidly improve rubber toughness. This successful visualization method opens a new avenue in spatial dispersion description of ?llers aggregates in organic–inorganic composite.