Synthesis, characterization, and multifunctional properties of Polyvinylpyrrolidone/Chitosan/Iron Molybdate nanocomposites for electrochemical devices
Saedah R. Al‐Mhyawi, Ahlam I. Al‐Sulami, Fatimah Mohammad H. AlSulami, Reema H. Aldahiri, Merfat M. Alsabban, Fuad Mohammed A.B. Mosa, Jawza Sh Alnawmasi, Omer Nur, Mohammed A. Mannaa, A. Rajeh
Abstract
This study examined the structure of the polymer matrix and the structural alterations caused by dispersing iron molybdate (FeMoO 4 ) nanoparticles to develop and characterize novel FeMoO 4 -modified polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/chitosan (CS) nanocomposites. The excellent physicochemical properties of polymer nanocomposite films, along with their ease of production and low cost, have made them a key focus in optoelectronics and energy storage research. XRD analysis revealed that the crystallinity of CS/PVP-FeMoO 4 nanocomposites decreased significantly with increasing nanoparticle concentration. FTIR analysis confirmed a strong interaction between the CS/PVP blend and FeMoO 4 nanoparticles. Optical properties were analyzed using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The direct and indirect band gaps of pure CS/PVP decreased from 4.53/4.01 eV to 3.51/2.92 eV in CS/PVP-2.6 wt% FeMoO 4 . AC conductivity was studied via impedance spectroscopy at frequencies of 10 2 –10 7 Hz and room temperature. Following Jonscher's rule, the AC electrical conductivity of the blend increased with FeMoO 4 content. The significantly enhanced conductivity of doped samples demonstrates that FeMoO 4 nanoparticle addition to the CS/PVP matrix improves charge conduction. Dielectric experiments revealed that CS/PVP/FeMoO 4 nanocomposites exhibit a low dielectric loss factor and high dielectric constant. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to assess the sample's suitability for electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). Overall, the enhanced electrical, dielectric, optical, and electrochemical performance of CS/PVP-FeMoO 4 nanocomposite films qualifies them for energy storage applications.