Synthesis, Characterization, and Mechanical Properties of KTP Nanoparticles Incorporated into PMMA Matrix

Abstract

This work examines the production and analysis of potassium titanium phosphate (KTP) nanoparticles that are combined with a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) matrix to create a KTP/PMMA nanocomposite film. KTP nanoparticles were produced using a simple hydrothermal method with oxalic acid as a coating agent. The nanocomposite films were created by dispersing KTP nanoparticles in PMMA with the use of ultrasonic energy, followed by a vacuum treatment to remove any air bubbles. Characterization tests have supported the formation of KTP nanoparticles exhibiting an orthorhombic phase, as confirmed by the structural study. The nanocomposite film showed a 38% visible transparency and an optical absorption peak at 282 nm. This indicates that the nanocomposite film had a bandgap of 4.39 eV. The resultant nanoparticles obtained by hydrothermal synthesis exhibit a relatively rhombohedral to prismatic shape with a size of 0.7–1μm. Mechanical testing revealed that the nanocomposite outperformed pure PMMA in terms of Young's modulus and tensile strength. However, the nanocomposite had a lower elongation at break, indicating its increased stiffness and strength. The results emphasize the potential of KTP/PMMA nanocomposite films in applications that need excellent optical clarity and mechanical strength.