The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, researchers have recently fabricated a biodegradable nanocomposite film. These fabricated films exhibit remarkable optical and mechanical properties, making them a breakthrough in the field of science and technology.
The Highlights of the Research
The study primarily revolves around polymers, materials that have become integral parts of various sectors. Industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare hugely rely on polymers for their flexibility and adaptability. However, advanced applications like flexible displays and organic LED technology require highly flexible and optically active polymers. To achieve these properties, researchers are incorporating nanomaterials into polymers.
Among many synthetic biodegradable polymers, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) stands out for its robust mechanical properties and exceptional film-forming capabilities. By introducing suitable nanomaterials, PVA can be customized to possess the desired optical and mechanical properties.
Creating Biodegradable Nanocomposite Film
The research team has fabricated a biodegradable PVA-CuO nanocomposite film using a simple solution casting technique. Copper salt was used as a precursor in creating CuO nanoparticles under various heat treatment conditions. This nanocomposite film outperformed pure PVA films in terms of superior optical, mechanical, and antimicrobial features.
The existence of CuO nanoparticles in the polymer matrix was confirmed using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques.
Understanding Polymers
Polymers are vital large molecules comprising repeating subunits called monomers. Their various properties make them useful in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and industry. For instance, they are widely used in everyday products like plastics, rubber, and fibers.
Biodegradable polymers, a type of polymer, can naturally degrade over time into eco-friendly substances.
Nanomaterials and Their Role
Nanomaterials are engineered at the nanoscale, with a particle size of less than 100 nm in at least one dimension. They possess notably different properties and structures from those of bulk materials due to their decreased size.
Nanocomposite Film: Combining Polymers & Nanomaterials
A nanocomposite film is a thin layered material featuring a polymer matrix integrated with nanoparticles or nanomaterials. These films are designed to combine the unique properties of nanomaterials with the advantages of the polymer matrix to achieve specific desired characteristics.
The application and use of nanotechnology in health and other sectors have been a topic of questions in past UPSC Civil Services Examinations. Examples include “Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology”, “Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy” questions asked in 2015 and “What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in the health sector?” question asked in 2020.
