Optimizing BiOCl concentration for enhanced LDPE performance: Investigation of structure, thermal stability, and optical characteristics

Abstract

This research article presents a comprehensive study on enhancing the structural, thermal alongside optical properties of LDPE by incorporating BiOCl nanoparticles. LDPE nanocomposites were synthesized using the solvent casting technique, employing different concentrations of BiOCl (3, 5, and 7 wt.%) nanoparticles. BiOCl demonstrated crystalline anisotropic growth along the (110) plane under solvothermal treatment, enhancing the interfacial interaction with LDPE chains. This interaction reduces electrostatic inter-chain interactions, promoting alignment and crystallization of molecular chains and yielding a smooth morphology. The optimal BiOCl concentration is determined to be 5 wt.%, as higher concentrations lead to nanoparticle aggregations and weak interactions. Raman spectroscopy shows broadened intensity peaks in the nanocomposite with increasing BiOCl concentrations, indicating the presence of defects and oxygen vacancies. These findings offer promising prospects for photocatalytic applications. The thermal analysis reveals enhanced thermal stability, fire resistance, and insulation in the nanocomposites compared to pure LDPE. The incorporation of BiOCl increases activation energy, melting, and glass transition temperatures, highlighting their positive impact on enhancing the thermal properties of LDPE. The red shift in absorption peaks of LDPE nanocomposites indicates π-delocalization, suggesting small band gaps. Additionally, higher weight percentages of BiOCl nanoparticles in the LDPE matrix result in increased absorption intensities in the UV region, providing enhanced UV radiation protection, with a maximum absorption of 96% of UV light. The results include improved interaction, morphology, alignment, thermal stability, fire resistance, and UV protection of BiOCl: LDPE nanocomposite, with potential for diverse industries.