Sol-gel derived self-supporting film

Sol-gel derived self-supporting films with thickness ranging from 30-500 mu m was prepared by using dimethyl-diethoxysilane and tetraethoxysilane prec ursors. Gas chromatography and mass spectrum analysis indicates that ((CH3) (2)Si-O)(n) molecules were formed during hydrolysis and condensation. Such molecules act as space filler within the gel network and provide the film f lexibility. IR and AFM techniques were used for the film structure and surf ace morphology investigations. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights re served.