However, the compatibility between the rubber matrix and
nanosilica is rather poor because of the large quantities of hydroxyl
groups on the surface of nanosilica and high surface energy, resulting
in severe agglomeration and weak rubber–filler interaction
[8,9]. Surface modification [10] of nanosilica can reduce the surface
hydroxyl density and thus improve the compatibility of nanosilica
with the rubber matrix, leading to the improvement of filler
dispersion and performance of the rubber composite [11].