Research of Silica Particles Dispersion in Polymer Matrix Under Acoustic Levitation

Series of resins consisting different amount of silica particles with different sizes and surface properties were prepared as suspended samples under an acoustic levitator. The resulting composites after curing under irradiation have been investigated. Fracture surface morphologies of the resins were compared to those with same composition prepared in a normal gravity field via scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that except for such factors like particle sizes, surface properties, particles concentration, and monomer viscosity, the microgravity state produced by acoustic levitation could also be an element that affects silica particles dispersion in the resins.