Hybrid organic–inorganic materials on paper: surface and thermo-mechanical properties

In this work a new simple method to improve the bulk properties of paper is presented. Co-polymerization of vinyl functionalised zirconia oxoclusters with vinyl trimethoxysilane was carried out onto paper. The coating process was evaluated also taking into account the specific weight of hybrid polymer left on the paper after one or two deposition steps, and with or without a thermal treatment of curing. The effectiveness of the coating process in consolidating and protecting paper was investigated by measurements with High Temperature Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Dynamical Mechanical Spectroscopy, tensile testing, contact angle, along with Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy. The coating process does not affect the morphology and appearance of the paper, but modifies its mechanical, surface and thermal properties.