Enhanced optical and electrical properties of PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites for optoelectronic applications

• Published in: Optical materials 2024-11, Vol.157, p.116402, Article 116402
• Main Authors: Saeed, Abdu, Alzahrani, Eman, Morsi, M.A., Tarabiah, A.E., Abdelrazek, E.M., Aldwais, Saleh, Alghamdi, Saleh A., Al-Harthi, Amani M., Al-Muntaser, A.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Nanocomposites; Optical properties; Optoelectronics; Polymers; TiO2
• ISSN: 0925-3467
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optmat.2024.116402

In this study, we synthesized titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) via the sol-gel process and incorporated them into a polymer blend of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to form PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites. The TiO2 NPs were integrated into the polymer matrix using the casting method at varying concentrations (1, 2, and 3 wt%). The structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties of the prepared TiO2 and nanocomposite films were thoroughly characterized using techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). TEM analysis revealed predominantly spherical TiO2 NPs with an average particle size of 15 nm. XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of TiO2 NPs and their interaction with the polymer chains, leading to modifications in the crystalline structure and chemical bonding of the nanocomposites. UV–Vis spectroscopy demonstrated a redshift in the absorption edge and increased absorbance with higher TiO₂ content, indicating enhanced optical properties. The indirect optical bandgap was observed to decrease from 4.19 eV to 2.21 eV as the TiO2 concentration increased, enhancing the material's photoresponsiveness. Additionally, the refractive index increased from 2.11 to 2.91, further supporting the potential for optical applications. EIS results showed a decrease in bulk resistance with increasing TiO2 concentration, suggesting improved electrical conductivity. These findings highlight the potential of PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites for optoelectronic applications, where enhanced optical properties, such as improved light absorption, higher refractive index, and improved charge transport, are critical for device performance. The study offers an understanding of the PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites, laying a foundation for future research in their applications in optoelectronic devices. •PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites were prepared using the casting method.•XRD and FTIR confirmed the successful incorporation of TiO2 in PEO/PMMA nanocomposites.•Optical bandgap decreased with higher TiO2 content in nanocomposites.•The refractive index and absorption coefficient increased with the addition of TiO2 in nanocomposites.•Enhanced properties make nanocomposites suitable for optoelectronics applications.