Zirconia nanocomposites and their applications as transparent advanced optical materials with high refractive index

Abstract

Polymer nanocomposites, prepared by incorporating functional nanoparticles (NPs) into a polymer matrix, have advantages of utilizing functionalities of polymers and NPs. Among them, transparent high-refractive-index polymer nanocomposites (THPNs), prepared by incorporating highly refractive NPs into polymer matrices, are advantageous for effectively manipulating light. This review focuses on the introduction of fabrication of THPN prepared by incorporating inorganic-oxide NPs, especially zirconia (ZrO 2 ), and its characteristics as an optical material. ZrO 2 NPs have a high refractive index and high transmittance in visible light regions with high and narrow optical bandgap energy. Since ZrO 2 NPs are harmless to humans and physically and chemically stable, they are suitable for applications of advanced optical materials for display and energy devices. Various fabrication methods of THPN with ZrO 2 NPs and surface modifications of ZrO 2 NPs to prevent agglomeration are introduced. Principles and specific applications, which THPN could work with and for, are introduced as well.

Universal Strategy for Inorganic Nanoparticle Incorporation into Mesoporous Liquid Crystal Polymer Particles

“…For instance, it enhances the stability of highly reactive nanomaterials and simplifies their handling by incorporating them with a larger polymer matrix. [22][23][24][25][26][27][28] Specifically, there has been a lack of extensive exploration into composite polymers that effectively utilize the controlled morphology and optical characteristics of the matrix polymer, surpassing its conventional role as a mere carrier.…”