Structure and Properties of Cork–Silica Xerogel Nanocomposites: Influence of the Cork Content

Abstract

Environmentally friendly nanocomposites were synthesized from a silica precursor and cork under mild conditions and dried at atmospheric pressure. Because of the covalent bonding between the components, these CorSil nanocomposites are homogeneous, light (apparent density in the range 360−750 kg m −3 ), machinable, with the Shore D hardness up to 67 and compressive strength up to 22.6 MPa. These properties place them as good replacements for wood, other natural products, and thermoplastic polymers, with the advantage of being flameretardant. The influence of the cork content and grain size on the structure, porosity, and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites was studied using infrared spectroscopy, sorption isotherms, compressive strength, and Shore D hardness measurements.

Transforming wastes into functional materials: natural cork-based physical structural components and polymers

“…51,52 Chemical modification permits the addition of various components or functional groups to cork, resulting in diverse structures and materials with additional properties or functions. 53 In situ polymerization 54 and mineralization 17 are widely explored methods for modifying cork structure by coating, impregnating, or filling cell wall surfaces or interiors with polymeric or inorganic components. The properties and functions of chemically modified cork are influenced by the location and interface between the original and added material.…”