Conductive,Gas Barrier,and Thermal Resistant Behavior of Poly (methyl methacrylate) Composite by Dispersion of ZrO2 Nanoparticles

Poly (methyl methacrylate)/zirconium dioxide (PMMA/ZrO₂) nanocomposites were prepared by the incorporation of ZrO₂ nanoparticles in various proportions (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10%) with PMMA matrix by in situ emulsifier-free emulsion polymerization technique. The structural property of PMMA/ZrO₂ nanocomposites was studied by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The thermal stability of PMMA/ZrO₂ nanocomposites was improved with increasing concentration of ZrO₂. The electrical conductivity of composites was measured as function of ZrO₂ concentration. The oxygen barrier properties of PMMA/ZrO₂ nanocomposites were measured by using gas permeameter.