One-step synthesis of polyethylene glycol-MnO2 nanocomposites: structural insights and enhanced performance

Purpose Understanding the chemical structure and properties of high-value composites that can be used in multiple industries may lead to their use in other applications. Design/methodology/approach Manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) embedded and stabilized with polyethylene glycol (PEG) were synthesized by one-step heating method at 70°C. The PEG/ MnO2 nanocomposite was then deposited as thin films onto Si-wafers using the electrospray ionization (deposition) technique (ESD) at room temperature. Structure–property relationships of PEG/MnO2 nanocomposites were discussed as a function of KMnO4 concentrations. The prepared PEG/MnO2 nanocomposite was elucidated by different techniques to discuss its chemical composition and properties. Findings The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy indicated the spherical morphology of MnO2 NPs with a size of approximately 39 nm, dispersed in the PEG. Raman spectroscopy revealed the successful formation of MnO2 NPs. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the PEG MnO2 nanocomposite exhibited higher resistance to thermal degradation (total mass loss of approximately 97.6 % at temperature >504°C) than the pristine PEG (approximately 98.4% at approximately 430°C) and an improvement in the activation energy over pure PEG (540.89 vs. 454.29 kJ/mol, with an increase of 86.60 kJ/mol or 19.1%). The mechanical properties of PEG and PEG/ MnO2 nanocomposite thin films showed good adhesion properties and impact resistance with no evidence of crack formation, indicating their potential utilization in surface applications. PEG/MnO2 nanocomposite thin films prepared via the electrospray technique can be applied in several fields which leverage their unique properties, including: energy storage for battery components and supercapacitors, environmental remediation in water purification systems and catalysts for pollutant degradation and coatings and surface treatments as protective coatings with enhanced durability and anti-corrosion applications. Practical implications PEG/MnO2 nanocomposite thin films prepared via the electrospray technique can be applied in several fields which leverage their unique properties, including: energy storage for battery components and supercapacitors, environmental remediation in water purification systems and catalysts for pollutant degradation and coatings and surface treatments as protective coatings with enhanced durability and anti-corrosion applications. Originality/value This study has significant practical significance through the provision of a clearly defined nanocomposite prepared and processed by pragmatic processes to create upgraded properties of critical relevance to several major industries. The work has an originality, since it primarily lies in the specific processing pathway (ESD) and the resulting high-strength film properties, providing the envisioned multi-applicational range, an incremental step over a continuum and not a breakthrough. The clear expression of the potential of the application based on the measured characteristics is an advantage.