Tailoring dielectric and optical properties of polystyrene/PMMA blends via Al2O3 nanoparticles for optoelectronic and microelectronic applications

This work presents the synthesis and analysis of innovative PMMA/PS/Al 2 O 3 polymer nanocomposite membranes, intended for sophisticated optoelectronic and microelectronic applications. Polymer blends of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS) were synthesized by casting, integrating different percentages (0, 1, 3, 7, and 9 wt%) of alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles. Structural and morphological analyses utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) indicate that low Al 2 O 3 loading results in enhanced amorphous characteristics and superior nanoparticle dispersion. In contrast, elevated loadings facilitate nanoparticle crystallinity and agglomeration within the polymer matrix. Optical analyses employing UV–Vis spectroscopy reveal that elevated Al 2 O 3 concentrations constrict the absorption edge and alter both the band gap and refractive index, hence affecting the material's appropriateness for optoelectronic applications. Dielectric investigations indicate that the dielectric constant of the composite initially rises with well-dispersed Al 2 O 3 , but declines at elevated concentrations due to diminished interfacial polarization. The deliberate incorporation of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles optimizes the optical and dielectric characteristics of PMMA/PS composites, enabling customized design for sophisticated electrical and photonic devices.