(605i) Phase Behavior and Nano-Mechanical Properties of Polymer Grafted Nanoparticles Blends Thin Film

Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) have emerged as a fascinating area of research due to their ability to exhibit a wide range of versatile properties, making them highly attractive for various applications spanning from optoelectronics to gas separation membranes. The unique properties of PNCs are governed by the composition, morphology, and mobility of both the polymer matrix and the incorporated nanoparticles. Among the different types of nanocomposites, polymer-grafted nanoparticles (PGNPs) have garnered significant attention owing to their ability to achieve high dispersion within the polymer matrix. In our study, we focus on investigating the phase behavior of chemically dissimilar PGNPs in thin films. Thin films are of particular interest due to their relevance in many technological applications, including coatings, sensors, and electronic devices. By understanding the phase behavior of PGNPs in thin films, we can gain insights into their structural properties and how they influence the overall performance of the composite material.To study the phase behavior of PGNPs blend thin films, we utilize a combination of experimental techniques, including Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Time-of-flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). AFM allows us to analyze the surface morphology and nanomechanical properties of the thin films, providing valuable information about their structural characteristics. Additionally, ToF-SIMS and XPS enable us to investigate the chemical composition and distribution of the PGNPs within the thin films, giving us insights into their phase behavior and interaction with the polymer matrix. One of the key aspects of our study is the investigation of the mechanical properties of the PGNPs blend thin films. We utilize the Strain-Induced Elastic Buckling Instability for Mechanical Properties Measurements (SIEBIMM) method to measure the elastic modulus of ultra-thin films (with thicknesses less than 100nm). This method provides us with reliable measurements of the mechanical properties of the thin films, allowing us to assess how the presence of PGNPs affects their mechanical behavior. Our results show that the phase behavior and mechanical properties of PGNPs blend thin films are highly influenced by factors such as nanoparticle composition, morphology, and processing conditions. We observe that the elastic modulus of PGNPs blends is notably higher compared to homopolymer blends, indicating enhanced mechanical properties. Additionally, ToF-SIMS and XPS analysis reveals insights into the phase behavior of the PGNPs within the thin films, highlighting their potential applications across various fields. In conclusion, our study provides valuable insights into the phase behavior and mechanical properties of PGNPs blend thin films, paving the way for their potential applications in a wide range of technological domains. By understanding how PGNPs interact with the polymer matrix and influence the overall properties of the composite material, we can develop novel materials with tailored properties for specific applications.