On the Effect of TiO2 Nanoparticles on the Crystallization of PEO

ORAL

Abstract

Nanocomposite consisting of various amounts of TiO2 nanoparticles dispersed within polyethylene oxide (PEO) have been prepared by melt mixing. The thermal properties of these nanocomposites have been investigated by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). TGA data revealed a weak increase of the thermal stability of the PEO matrix upon the loading with nanoparticles. The crystalline structure of PEO and TiO2 has been confirmed by Wide Angle X-Ray Scattering and electron microscopy. Isothermal and non isothermal DSC was used to investigate the melting/crystallization process. Additional information regarding the nanofiller has been obtained via Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. The shift of the melting and crystallization temperature due to the loading with TiO2 nanoparticles is analyzed.

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Authors

  • Jesus Eduardo Saldana

    The University of Texas - Pan American

  • Alin Cristian Chipara

    Rice University, The University of Texas - Pan American

  • Alejandro Castillo

    The University of Texas- Pan American, The University of Texas - Pan American

  • James Hinthorne

    The University of Texas - Pan American

  • Elamin Ibrahim

    The University of Texas - Pan American

  • Mircea Chipara

    The University of Texas Pan American, The University of Texas - Pan American, The University of Texas - Pan American, Department of Physics and Geology, University of Texas Pan American