Silica silanization graft-strengthening bone cement poly(methyl methacrylate): process and dynamic mechanical properties

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) has garnered widespread interest as a potential polymer-based bone cement (BC). However, many challenges in its mechanical properties, especially elongation behavior, need to be overcome. This study focused on PMMA reinforcement with SiO₂ particles from two different perspectives, i.e., particle size (nano, submicro, and micro) and surface silanization of the SiO₂ particles. Silanization improves the bonding between the additive and polymer matrix, which should improve the dynamic mechanical properties of the composite. The presence of silane bonding was confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, chemical titration, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and it was determined that 6000 μmol g⁻¹ of silane was successfully coated onto the SiO₂ particles. Reinforcement with silanized SiO₂ nanoparticles increased elongation at break by 136%. The mechanism by which the size and silanization of the SiO₂ additive affected elongation behavior was also discussed in detail.