Electrospun CA-PEG Composite Films with High Transparency, Optical Haze, and Exceptional Mechanical Flexibility

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Materials Science
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Transparent and hazy films with robust mechanical properties are crucial for advanced optoelectronic applications.
• Developing scalable and universal strategies for fabricating such films remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, scalable method for producing transparent and hazy cellulose composite films (CPs) with enhanced mechanical properties.
• To investigate the structure-property relationships influencing the optical and mechanical performance of these composite films.

Main Methods:

• Electrospinning technology was employed to create an isotropic interwoven network structure.
• A simple and scalable impregnation method was utilized to incorporate additives, including polyethylene glycol (PEG).
• Characterization included optical measurements (transparency, haze) and mechanical testing (tensile strength, strain).

Main Results:

• The fabricated CP films achieved high transparency (up to 91.62%) and optical haze (up to 95.76%).
• The composite films exhibited significantly improved mechanical properties, with tensile strength reaching 40 MPa and strain reaching 180%.
• The films demonstrated retained electrical conductivity after mechanical stress and soaking when integrated with carbon nanotube strips.

Conclusions:

• The developed cellulose composite films offer a promising combination of high transparency, optical haze, and mechanical strength.
• The electrospinning and impregnation method provides a scalable route for advanced optoelectronic materials.
• These films show potential for applications in flexible optoelectronics due to their durability and conductivity.