Flexible inorganic–organic hybrids with dual inorganic components

Combining multiple inorganic components is an effective approach to improve the mechanical properties of inorganic–organic hybrid materials. The can form interactions with organic polymer matrix, and there thus a need understand reinforcement mechanism under optimal combination particles. In this work, we prepared series dual particle–based titania/silica–poly(tetrahydrofuran)–poly( ? -caprolactone) (TiO 2 /SiO –PTHF–PCL) hybrids by means simultaneous cationic ring-opening polymerization sol–gel reaction. addition constructing networks, SiO TiO play important roles in toughening mechanisms. feature enhanced thermal stability when compared ones single component. optimized mixing such two identified through tests, revealing that 70 /(Si 0.6 Ti 0.4 ) 30 (70/18/12 mass ratio) has highest compressive failure strain (80%) ultimate strength (1.3 MPa) as well storage modulus (120 kPa), enabling elongation up 37% its original length. We find component strategy enhance materials, suggesting potential applications scaffolds for tissue engineering soft robotics. • study effect adding chains on hybrids' properties. Multiple between types oxide are formed. Improved stress achieved 60% 40% inorganic/organic ratio 70:30 (wt%).