SILYLATION TO IMPROVE INCORPORATION OF ZEOLITES IN POLYIMIDE FILMS

The silylation of borosilicate with APTS ((gamma-aminopropyl)triethoxy silane) is studied as a tool to improve zeolite incorporation in PI (p olyimide) films. Among other experimental parameters, a quantification of the zeolite outer surface silanols is performed in order to determ ine the most appropriate silylation conditions. Xylene sorptions, NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy, and measurements of the spe cific surface of the zeolites were performed to characterize the silyl ation. Finally, the silylated zeolite was incorporated in PI films on which tensile strength, density, and xylene sorption were measured.