Optimizing the synthesis of nanostructured SiO2 from Ethiopian pumice for use in rubber reinforcement
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigated the optimization of synthesis parameters for producing nanostructured SiO 2 from Ethiopian pumice for use as rubber reinforcement. Important variables such as pH, sol‒gel synthesis temperature, stirring rate, calcination temperature, sodium silicate modulus, NaOH concentration, and H 2 SO 4 concentration were systematically varied. FTIR, XRD, BET, TGA, and SEM were used to characterize the resulting SiO 2 and assess how these parameters affect its morphological, surface, thermal, and structural properties. According to BET analysis, a sodium silicate modulus of 3–4 produced the best results. FTIR and BET tests showed that H 2 SO 4 concentrations of 2 M and 2.5 M were ideal, while NaOH concentrations of 2 M and 3 M were optimal based on BET and XRD analyses. The best silica was obtained within a synthesis temperature range of 70–90 °C, as indicated by XRD, FTIR, and SEM investigations and pH values between 8 and 10 were confirmed by XRD and SEM to be suitable. TGA revealed that the ideal calcination temperature ranged from 600 °C to 800 °C, while SEM showed that the best stirring rate was 600 rpm. These studies confirm that the characteristics of Ethiopian pumice-derived SiO 2 for rubber reinforcement are strongly influenced by the optimized synthesis conditions.
Source: Scientific Reports
Institution: Adama Science and Technology University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
OpenAlex ID: W4411096060