PVDF-BaTiO₃ Nanocomposite Inkjet Inks with Enhanced β-Phase Crystallinity for Printed Electronics

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) is a key electroactive polymer for flexible electronics.
• Its ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and pyroelectric properties depend on specific crystalline phases (β and γ).
• Achieving high β-phase crystallinity in PVDF is crucial for optimal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate PVDF inkjet inks with enhanced β-phase crystallinity.
• To investigate the effect of barium titanate nanoparticles (BaTiO3) on PVDF's crystalline structure and properties.
• To optimize BaTiO3 concentration for improved ferroelectric polarization and piezoelectric response.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of PVDF-BaTiO3 nanocomposite inkjet inks using wet ball milling and bath ultrasonication.
• Varying BaTiO3 concentrations in the PVDF matrix.
• Analysis of β-phase crystallinity and overall structural changes.

Main Results:

• Incorporation of BaTiO3 nanoparticles acted as a nucleating agent, promoting β-phase PVDF.
• The optimal concentration of 5 w% BaTiO3 yielded the highest β-phase crystallinity.
• Higher BaTiO3 concentrations led to decreased overall crystallinity and increased amorphous content.

Conclusions:

• PVDF-BaTiO3 nanocomposite inks offer a promising route to enhance electroactive properties.
• BaTiO3 acts as an effective nucleating agent for inducing the desired β-phase in PVDF.
• Careful control of BaTiO3 concentration is essential to maximize β-phase crystallinity and avoid structural degradation.