Green Processing of Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)/Boehmite Nanocomposites: A Sustainable Approach To High-Performance Materials for Optoelectronic Devices

Abstract

This study explores the green synthesis of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEOx)/boehmite (BHM) nanocomposites to enhance their thermal, optical, mechanical, and electrical properties for sustainable applications. BHM nanoparticles were incorporated into the PEOx matrix using eco-friendly methods to ensure minimal environmental impact. The integration of BHM nanoparticles into PEOx was analysed using FTIR, UV-Vis, XRD, TEM, FE-SEM, optical microscopy and TG analysis. The FTIR spectra and XRD confirmed the presence of BHM in the polymer nanocomposites. UV-Vis absorbance intensity increased proportionally with BHM content, reaching a maximum at the PEOx/9 wt% BHM nanocomposite. This increase correlated with a low optical bandgap energy of 4.72 eV. The optical microscopy, TEM and FE-SEM confirmed the uniform dispersion of BHM within the PEOX at 9 wt% loading; beyond this concentration, nanoparticle agglomeration occurred in the polymer matrix. TGA results indicated a significant increase in the decomposition temperature of PEOx nanocomposites. The AC conductivity and dielectric response of the PEOx/BHM nanocomposites showed tunable, superior properties at optimal filler concentration, with frequency-dependent behaviors attributed to conductive pathways formed by the nanoparticles. Various mechanical parameters were analyzed to assess film flexibility and robustness. In 9 wt% BHM-loaded samples, the tensile strength of PEOx increased by 123.8%, and Young’s modulus improved by 15.8%, enhancing mechanical properties. However, elongation at break decreased to 259%, indicating reduced flexibility. Incorporating BHM into PEOx enhanced its mechanical strength, optical properties, thermal stability and dielectric performance, making it a promising candidate for flexible energy storage and optoelectronic applications.