One-pot microwave-assisted approach of polydiacetylene/zinc oxide nanocomposite for reversible thermochromic

Abstract

This study introduces a new technique to fabricate the reversible poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposites thermochromism. Our preparation process is the solution-mixing method, which is supported by microwave synthesis time instead of ultrasonic bath or stirrer. The presence of ethanol molecules in aqueous media in the solution-mixing method induces dipolar polarization. In addition, the presence of Zn2+ leaking out of the ZnO can produce ionic polarization. These factors affect the shape of poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposites based on their thermochromic properties. The optical properties of poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposite were determined through UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The morphology of this nanocomposite was examined by scanning electron microscopy, and its crystallinity was investigated by X-ray diffraction. The inter-intrachain interaction was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. In addition, the poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposite embedding PVA was prepared. The reversible theromochromic properties of poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposites demonstrated a higher color transition temperature with increasing microwave synthesis time. It is an important observation to understand the effect of microwave synthesis time on the morphology and reversible thermochromism of the poly(PCDA/ZnO) nanocomposite