Synthesis and Characterization of Functionalized Silica Particles: A Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience in Materials Chemistry

A course-based undergraduate research experience demonstrating the synthesis and functionalization of silica particles prepared using a modified Stöber method was implemented. Silica particles were functionalized utilizing co-condensation and delayed condensation procedures. FT-IR and thermogravimetric analyses showed that the functionalization methods were successful. Dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy indicated that both functionalization methods produced nanometer sized particles that aggregated in solution. Glass slides were spin coated with suspensions of unfunctionalized nanometer sized silica particles and particles functionalized by both methods. Optical profilometry and atomic force microscopy indicated that all samples had less macroscale surface roughness than nanoscale surface roughness and that the functionalized particles had over two times more nanoscale surface roughness than the unfunctionalized particles. Water contact angle analysis indicated that the glass slides coated with the functionalized particles were less hydrophilic than the glass slides coated with the bare particles.