Carbon Filled Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Made by Laser Ablation in Liquids

Colligon Torris^*
*Correspondence: Colligon Torris, Department of Solid State Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology, Prague, Czech Republic, Email:

Keywords

Material science • Growing • Photonics • Composites • Liquids • Ablation

Introduction

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic polymer characterized by its excellent film-forming, emulsifying, and adhesive properties. It is soluble in water and possesses good mechanical strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance. PVA is widely used in textiles, papermaking, coatings, and as a raw material for producing other chemicals. Its biodegradability and non-toxic nature make it an environmentally friendly option for various applications. Carbon materials, including Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and carbon black, are renowned for their exceptional electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Incorporating these materials into polymer matrices can significantly enhance the composite's overall performance. For instance, carbon-filled composites exhibit improved electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and mechanical strength, making them suitable for applications in electronics, energy storage, and structural materials. Laser Ablation in Liquids (LAL) is a technique wherein a laser beam is directed onto a solid target submerged in a liquid medium. The high energy of the laser causes the target material to vaporize and form a plasma plume. As the plasma cools, nanoparticles are formed and dispersed in the liquid. This method allows for the production of nanoparticles with controlled size, shape, and composition without the need for chemical precursors or surfactants, making it a clean and efficient synthesis method [1].

The synthesis of carbon-filled PVA composites using LAL involves several key steps. Firstly, the selection of appropriate carbon materials and their dispersion in the PVA matrix is crucial. The laser parameters, such as wavelength, pulse duration, and energy, must be optimized to achieve the desired nanoparticle characteristics. Additionally, the liquid medium in which the ablation occurs plays a significant role in determining the final properties of the composite. PVA is dissolved in water to form a homogeneous solution. The concentration of PVA can be varied depending on the desired properties of the final composite. Carbon materials such as CNTs, graphene, or carbon black are selected based on the targeted application. These materials are then dispersed in the PVA solution using techniques like ultrasonication to ensure uniform distribution. A laser beam is focused on the carbon material- PVA mixture. The parameters of the laser (wavelength, pulse duration, energy) are carefully controlled to achieve efficient ablation and nanoparticle formation [2-4].

Literature Review

The ablated nanoparticles are dispersed in the PVA matrix. The interaction between the carbon nanoparticles and PVA chains leads to the formation of a stable composite.The composite solution can be cast into films or molded into desired shapes. The solvent is evaporated, leaving behind a solid composite material.The properties of the synthesized composites need to be thoroughly characterized to understand their potential applications. Used to observe the surface morphology and distribution of carbon nanoparticles within the PVA matrix. Provides detailed information on the size and shape of the nanoparticles. Helps in determining the crystalline structure of the composite. Used to identify the functional groups and chemical bonding in the composite. Assesses the electrical properties of the composite, crucial for applications in electronics.Carbon materials are known for their excellent electrical conductivity.

When dispersed in the PVA matrix, they create conductive pathways, thus improving the overall electrical conductivity of the composite. This property is particularly beneficial for applications in flexible electronics, sensors, and conductive films. The addition of carbon nanoparticles reinforces the PVA matrix, enhancing its mechanical properties such as tensile strength and elasticity. This makes the composite suitable for use in load-bearing applications, packaging materials, and structural components. Carbon-filled PVA composites exhibit improved thermal stability due to the high thermal conductivity of carbon materials. This property is advantageous for applications in thermal management, such as heat sinks and thermal interface materials. The presence of carbon nanoparticles can improve the barrier properties of PVA composites, making them effective in packaging applications where moisture and gas barrier properties are critical. The enhanced electrical conductivity and flexibility of carbon-filled PVA composites make them ideal for use in flexible electronic devices, such as wearable sensors and flexible displays.These composites can be used in supercapacitors and batteries due to their high electrical conductivity and thermal stability.

Discussion

The sensitivity of carbon-filled PVA composites to environmental changes makes them suitable for use in sensors for detecting gases, humidity, and other parameters.Due to their biocompatibility and mechanical properties, these composites can be used in biomedical applications such as drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds.The improved barrier properties of carbon-filled PVA composites make them suitable for use in food packaging, where moisture and gas barrier properties are crucial. Use of PVA, a biodegradable polymer, makes the composites environmentally friendly. The properties of the composites can be tailored by varying the type and concentration of carbon materials and adjusting the laser ablation parameters. The composites can be used in a wide range of applications; from electronics to biomedical devices.The production of carbon-filled PVA composites via LAL can be cost-intensive due to the high energy requirements of laser ablation. While LAL is effective for small-scale production, scaling up the process for industrial applications can be challenging. Achieving uniform dispersion of carbon nanoparticles within the PVA matrix is crucial for consistent properties but can be technically challenging [5].

The future of carbon-filled PVA composites is promising, with ongoing research focused on overcoming the existing challenges and expanding their applications. Research into the optimization of laser parameters could reduce costs and improve the efficiency of the production process. Combining different types of carbon materials or other nanoparticles could lead to composites with synergistic properties, opening new avenues for advanced applications. The development of biodegradable and eco-friendly electronic devices using carbon-filled PVA composites could significantly reduce electronic waste. Research into the biocompatibility and functionality of these composites could lead to new applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and implantable devices [6].

Conclusion

Carbon-filled polyvinyl alcohol composites made by laser ablation in liquids represent a significant advancement in materials science. The unique combination of PVA's properties and the exceptional characteristics of carbon materials results in composites with enhanced electrical, mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. While there are challenges to be addressed, the potential applications of these composites in flexible electronics, energy storage, sensors, biomedical devices, and packaging are vast. Continued research and development in this field are likely to yield even more innovative solutions and broaden the scope of applications, paving the way for a new generation of high-performance, eco-friendly materials.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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