Measurements of size distribution nanoparticles in ultraviolet-curable methacrylate-based boehmite nanocomposites

A deep study on the possibility to increase the quality of the dispersion of organically modified Boehmite nanoparticles into photo-polymerizable methacrylic-siloxane monomers, to be used as coatings, was conducted using unconventional indirect analyses. The nanocomposite were produced using two different procedures, starting from the conventional ‘‘solvent dispersion method.’’ The two procedures used differ for the technique used to obtain the dispersion of Boehmite, i.e., sonication or magnetic stirring and for the time used in each procedure. The efficiency of each method of preparation of nanostructured systems was analyzed, both in the liquid (uncured) and ultraviolet (UV) cured state. First, dynamic light scattering and rheological measurements were performed on the liquid suspensions, supplying experimental data used in proper theoretical models to estimate the dimensions and distribution of Boehmite particles. The suspensions obtained with the two different methods were, then, UV cured obtaining thin and thick films, on which scanning electron microscopy and transmittance measurements were performed.