Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of PMMA TiO2 Nanocomposites

Abstract

Hybrid composite films made of an organic polymeric matrix and an inorganic nanosized filler, namely titania prolate nanoparticles, have been prepared and characterized both thermally and mechanically. The filler content has been varied, while still being kept in the regime of unsaturated, homogeneous nanocomposites. On increasing, the filler content there is an abrupt increase in hardness at an intermediate load, while the elastic modulus increases almost linearly. The glass transition temperature is also increased, with a tendency to saturation. The morphological characterization of the films confirms a lack of phase separation, with only a continuous, slight increase in surface roughness, and no major effects on the top film features.