Positional Isomeric Effects on the Physicochemical Properties of Polymeric Matrix and Polymer@TiO₂ Nanocomposites

This study investigates the influence of positional isomerism on the physicochemical characteristics of polymeric matrices by examining polyo-anisidine (POA) and polyp-anisidine (PPA) in conjunction with TiO2 nanoparticles. The synthesis of POA@TiO2 and PPA@TiO2 involved chemical oxidative polymerization. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the anatase structure of TiO2 nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the successful integration of TiO2 nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. Moreover, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the effective interaction between the nanoparticle and the polymer. TGA indicated that POA@TiO2 exhibited a lower weight loss than PPA@TiO2 , suggesting an enhancement in thermal stability. Although the incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles led to a reduction in the electrical conductivity of the pristine polymers (PPA and POA), the resultant nanocomposites retained high conductivities within the range of 0.08 to 0.34 S.cm(-1). Furthermore, the POA-based polymer matrix displayed promising electrochemical properties. Significantly, the adherence of the POA layer to TiO2 nanoparticles suggests potential practical applications.