Synthesis and characterization of reactive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (R-POSS) containing multi-N-methylol groups

Novel high-reactive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes bearing multi-N-methylol groups (R-POSS) is synthesized. The chemical structure of R-POSS is characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 29Si NMR. Nano-structure of R-POSS is observed by field emission scanning electro microscope (FSEM) and AFM. R-POSS monomer imparts a nano-sized inorganic core and organic corner with multi-N-methylol groups. R-POSS can readily crosslink to cellulose polymer and improve elastic recovery of cellulose materials. R-POSS as novel POSS reagent may be utilized for preparation of nanocomposite materials and functional biomaterials.