Photo-crosslinkable polyurethanes reinforced with coumarin modified silica nanoparticles for photo-responsive coatings

•Silica nanoparticles were successfully modified with a novel coumarin derivative (mSiNPs).•mSiNPs were effectively incorporated into PCL530 and PCL2000 based polyurethanes (PUs).•mSiNPs interact with hard segments improving the photo-dimerization yield and thermal stability.•The photo-crosslinking process enhanced the hydrophobicity of modified nanocomposites.•The mechanical properties of PU2000s were maintained after the irradiation process.