Enhanced mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)/copper oxide nanocomposites for flexible optoelectronic devices via in‐situ polymerization technique

Abstract

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) with varied compositions of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles was synthesized using in‐situ free radical polymerization. UV–visible, FT‐IR, XRD, FE‐SEM, DSC, and TGA were employed to examine their structure, morphology, and thermal properties. The broadening and intensification of UV absorption, as well as the shift in IR peaks of PMMA with the addition of CuO, confirm their interactions. The reduction in optical bandgap values with the reinforcement of nanofillers confirms the existence of intermediate energy bands in nanocomposites. XRD indicated that polymerization with CuO reduced the amorphous nature of PMMA. The FE‐SEM image revealed that the dispersion of CuO altered the nonporous, rough surface of PMMA into a homogeneous shape. The reinforcement of CuO enhanced the thermal stability and glass transition temperature of PMMA. The mechanical strength, modulus, impact strength, and rigidity of PMMA were significantly improved through in‐situ polymerization. The electrical property analysis revealed that the AC conductivity increased with frequency, temperature, and filler content. The reduction in activation energy of AC conductivity with temperature points toward their semiconducting nature. PMMA/CuO nanocomposites with higher tensile strength, lower bandgap energy, higher conductivity, and thermal properties can be used to make flexible optoelectronic devices.Highlights A series of PMMA/CuO nanocomposites were synthesized and characterized. Enhanced optical property, thermal stability, and glass transition temperature. Possess excellent dielectric constant and AC conductivity. Mechanical strength and impact resistance of PMMA were greatly enhanced. A promising material for flexible optoelectronic and power storage applications.

Influence of Zinc Manganite Nano Fillers on the Optical and Dielectric Features of Poly-Methyl Methacrylate/Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Nanocomposites

“…Comparable outcomes were observed in the PVA/TiN/SiO 2 hybrid nano system 60 and PMMA/CuO. 14 The manipulation of the σ ac value can allow for customization of the filler's interaction with the host polymer. [61][62][63] The complex modulus serves as a crucial and beneficial tool in the analysis, assessment, and comprehension of the dynamic characteristics of electrical transport in materials.…”

“…[1][2][3] For example, PMMA/copper oxide nanocomposites with good mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical features can be used as flexible optoelectronic devices. 14 The PMMA films loaded with 7 wt% boehmite nanoparticles possess exceptional optical characteristics, mechanical strength, and electrical performance. This makes them suitable for applications in the production of electromagnetic induction shielding materials, conducting adhesives, and flame-resistant flexible optoelectronic devices.…”