Optical and thermal studies of modified terephthaldehyde–acetone polymer

Abstract

Terephthaldehyde–acetone polymer was synthesized in an attempt to study its different structural and spectroscopic aspects along with thermal stability. The effect of modification was studied by introducing 4,5-dihydro-1 H-pyrazole ring in the polymer chain and silver nano particles (Ag NPs). The structural features of the polymer are supported by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The modification of the polymer is indicated by the appearance of new absorption bands in infrared spectra, due to the formation of dihydropyrazole ring and the interaction of Ag NPs with the main chain of the polymer. XRD revealed the amorphous polymer with an improved degree of crystallinity in the case of nanocomposites. The polymer was found thermally stable up to 210°C, and the stability improved by the addition of 4,5-dihydro-1 H-pyrazole (325°C) and Ag NPs (up to 360°C). The polymer looks fibrous in SEM micrographs and a decrease in this character is observed on modification. The optical and fluorescence properties warrant its use in LEDs and as an ultraviolet absorber.