Polymer Nanocomposites based on Modified ZrO2 NPs and Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) Blend: Optical, Morphological, and Thermal Properties

Nanocomposite films were prepared successfully by simple solution casting method from the blend of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) as the polymer matrix and functionalized ZrO2 nanoparticles as nanofiller. To prevent aggregation and improve the dispersion of nanoparticles into the matrix, ZrO2 nanoparticles were functionalized with citric acid and ascorbic acid. Then, nanocomposites were fabricated by adding different contents of modified nanoparticles into the poly(vinyl alcohol)-poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) matrix. Thermal stability of the obtained nanocomposite films was improved in comparison to the pure blend. Furthermore, optical property of nanocomposites makes them a potential candidate for ultraviolet shielding material.