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Pairu Ibrahim,
Rusli Daik,
Siti Fatahiyah,
Nur Falah Karoji,
- Researcher, Radiation Processing Technology Division, Malaysia Nuclear Agency, 436000 Bangi, Kajang Selangor, , Malaysia
- Professor, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 436000 Bangi, Selangor, , Malaysia
- Researcher, Radiation Processing Technology Division, Malaysia Nuclear Agency, 436000 Bangi, Kajang Selangor, , Malaysia
- Research Assistant, Radiation Processing Technology Division, Malaysia Nuclear Agency, 436000 Bangi, Kajang Selango, , Malaysia
Abstract
This study demonstrates that modifying nano-silica (nano-SiO2) via electron beam (e-beam) radiation-induced graft polymerization with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) significantly enhances its performance as a filler in thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) composites. Utilizing a pre-irradiation–peroxidation technique at absorbed doses between 10 kGy and 50 kGy, reactive free radicals and peroxides were successfully generated on the silica surface. These active sites initiated the chain growth of GMA, effectively reducing the intrinsic hydrophilicity of nano-SiO2 and regulating its porosity. Structural verification through FTIR and H-NMR spectroscopy confirmed successful graft polymerization, marked by distinct signals at 770cm-1 (Si–O) and $3.5ppm (methoxy protons of the GMA epoxy group). Surface characterization using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis and dynamic light scattering showed an increase in pore size alongside a notable decrease in nanoparticle agglomeration. Contact angle measurements validated the enhanced hydrophobic nature of the modified filler at higher irradiation doses. Furthermore, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) revealed increased surface roughness, while Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) demonstrated superior, uniform dispersion of the GMA-grafted nano-SiO2 (nano-SiO2/poly-GMA) throughout the TPE matrix. Ultimately, this radiation-driven surface functionalization optimizes interfacial adhesion between the inorganic filler and polymer matrix, yielding TPE composites with markedly improved physical, chemical, and mechanical properties.
Keywords: E-beam, GMA monomer, grafting, pores, hydrophobic properties
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Journal of Polymer & Composites
| Volume | 14 | |
| 06 | ||
| Received | 31/08/2026 | |
| Accepted | 19/10/2026 | |
| Published | 02/11/2026 | |
| Publication Time | 63 Days |