Structural and Optical Properties of PMMA-MgO Nanocomposite Film

Abstract This study investigates the structural, morphological, and optical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films incorporated with magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles. The PMMA-MgO polymer nanocomposite (PNC) films were fabricated via solution casting method using varying weight percentages (1-4 wt%) of MgO nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the integration of MgO nanofillers in the PMMA matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed interactions between PMMA and MgO nanoparticles. Atomic force microscopy demonstrated increased surface roughness in PNC films with higher MgO loading. Optical characterization using UV-visible spectroscopy showed enhanced absorption in the UV region and a noticeable peak at 280 nm due to MgO nanoparticles. The refractive index of PMMA-MgO PNCs increased with rising MgO content while the optical bandgap marginally decreased. The study highlights the potential of PMMA-MgO PNC films for advanced optoelectronic applications requiring high optical transparency and tuneable refractive index.