Interlayer Modification of Crystalline Layered Silicates with Oligodimethylsiloxane

Crystalline layered silicates are valuable precursors for the synthesis of functional siloxane-based nanomaterials. In this study, vinyl-terminated oligodimethylsiloxane was grafted onto the interlayer surfaces of a crystalline layered silicate, octosilicate. The oligosiloxane modification facilitated the delamination of the layers in hydrophobic organic solvents. Hydrosilylation reactions between the oligosiloxane-modified nanosheets and SiH-terminated polydimethylsiloxane resulted in a clear, stretchable elastomer, demonstrating that the nanosheets acted as cross-linkers. Furthermore, the introduction of silanolate groups into the elastomer imparted self-healing properties. These findings expand the potential of crystalline layered silicates as nanobuilding blocks for new materials.