Synthesis and Characterization of Tunable and Highly Transparent Thick Layers of Nanocomposites Based on Methacrylates a
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0951-E03-23
Synthesis and Characterization of Tunable and Highly Transparent Thick Layers of Nanocomposites Based on Methacrylates and Silica Nanoparticles Giuseppina Simone1,2, Gerardo Perozziello1, Vincenzo Tagliaferri3, and Nicolas Szita1 1 Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Ørsteds Plads, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, Denmark 2 Department of Mechanics and Aeronautics, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', Rome, 00185, Italy 3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, 00173, Italy
ABSTRACT We present a nanocomposite material based on functionalized silica nanoparticles in a methacrylate matrix. The nanocomposite material is synthesized without addition of a cosolvent, which enables the spin-coating of thick and defect-free layers of several tens of micrometers with smooth surfaces. SEM analysis indicates uniform distribution of the nanoparticles in the methacrylate matrix, and pinhole-free surfaces suitable for applications in optics. For optical characterization, the refractive index of the material for different silica concentrations is reported, and propagation losses in the UV/VIS range discussed. The tuning of the refractive indices can be applied towards the realization of low-loss passive optical waveguides. As a first step towards this goal, the processibility of the nanocomposite material for microfluidic applications, and the realization of a planar optical waveguide are demonstrated. INTRODUCTION The behavior of hybrid nanocomposites depends upon the composites’ phase morphology and interfacial properties [1]. A high degree of interpenetration and the presence of covalent bonds between the phases provide a positive synergism, leading to improved mechanical, electrical, and optical properties [2, 3]. In addition, an accurate choice of precursor chemistry allows the tailoring of the properties in the material [4], thus opening up for interesting optical applications and protective coatings. Most passive waveguides from nanocomposite materials are characterized for the IR wavelengths used in telecommunication [5], including nanocomposite thin films based on acrylic polymer and monodispersed colloidal silica with a thickness of a few micrometers [6]. Yet, for microfluidic or so-called Lab-on-Chip applications, the UV/VIS-region is of high importance for fluorescence detection and absorbance of organic compounds. Thus, the fabrication of layers several tens of micrometers thick would greatly facilitate integration of microfluidic structures with planar waveguides. Finally, tunable nanocomposites have not yet been widely applied for microfluidic devices, but could potentially make a large impact [7]. In this contribution, we investigate the functionalization of colloidal silica nanoparticles with methacrylic monomers without addition of a co-solvent to obtain layers of several tens of micrometers thickness. Mixtures with different silica content are characterized. To demonstrate the processibility of the presented material for microfluidic applica
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