Applications of Trimethylsilanol in Surface Treatment and Material Modification
Taking advantage of the hydrophobicity of its silicon atom and the reactivity of its hydroxyl group, trimethylsilanol can be used for surface modification of materials:
Enhancing hydrophobicity: Through the reaction between the hydroxyl group and the hydroxyl groups on the surface of inorganic materials (such as glass, metals, and ceramics), covalent bonds are formed, introducing trimethylsilyl groups onto the material surface, reducing the surface energy, and endowing the material with water - repellent and anti - fouling properties. For example, treating the glass surface can prepare waterproof glass, which is used for automobile windshields or architectural glass.
Improving compatibility: As a coupling agent, it promotes the combination of organic materials (such as plastics and rubber) with inorganic fillers (such as silicon dioxide and calcium carbonate), and improves the mechanical properties (such as strength and toughness) of composite materials.