Particles are often used in polymer formulations for adhesives and sealants to enhance the functionality of the product. The generic term "fumed silica" refers to a wide range of particulate products having different surface chemistries, from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Fumed silica is commonly used as a rheology control additive; it provides sag resistance, prevents sediment from settling, and shears thinning viscosity. This series of products exhibits different compatibility in different polymer systems, allowing the formulation to be finely tuned in rheological properties.
At the same time, the formulation system enhances the viscoelastic response of the liquid system by controlling the interaction of the particles with the particles and the adhesion of the particle-matrix interface. This interaction produces the desired viscoelasticity and is also a hard bond that is firmly bonded. A method of massing materials that prolongs the fracture path and dissipates part of the energy at the interface junction. These properties greatly improve the material's performance. This paper presents the results of recent research on the application of fumed silica in some applications, clarifying that these interactions help researchers and engineers develop new adhesives and sealants.
Fumed silica not only proves its remarkable performance in terms of rheology control, but also effectively enhances the strength of the adhesive after curing. The three examples herein describe the reinforcement of the polymer by fumed silica to give a higher performance adhesive or sealant.